Robot vs. Cobot: Understanding the Key Differences

This article compares robots and cobots, highlighting their definitions, functions, and key differences.

What is a Robot?

Definition: A robot is a machine capable of performing a complex series of tasks according to predefined programs. These programs can be modified as needed.

Figure 1 shows robots picking and placing heavy parts without any human intervention. Key characteristics of robots include:

• Robots operate autonomously, without human interaction. This allows for full automation, unlike cobots.
• Industrial robots are used in fully automated manufacturing lines, handling tasks that are unsuitable for humans due to speed, danger, or unpleasant conditions. They remove human operators from unsafe or unclean environments.
• Robots operate at much faster speeds and with greater accuracy than humans, even with heavier payloads.
• Specialized personnel are required for programming and maintenance.

What is a Cobot?

Definition: A cobot is a robot designed to share a workspace with humans. Cobot is a short term for “Collaborative Robot”.

Figure 2 shows cobots picking up components and passing them to human workers. Key characteristics of cobots include:

• Cobots cannot offer the full benefits of automation as robots can.
• Cobots work alongside human beings, leveraging the strengths of both machines and humans in manufacturing.
• Built-in safety mechanisms are incorporated to allow cobots to work safely with human workers.
• Cobots perform repetitive tasks, such as palletizing and machine tending, while humans perform higher-value manual tasks.
• Cobots have limited reach, payload, speed, and accuracy compared to industrial robots.

Key Differences Summarized