AIRSKIN safety cover by Blue Danube makes robots, grippers easier

Blue Danube's AIRSKIN is available from Advanced Motion & Controls Ltd.

Manufacturers that use robots and grippers typically want practical, flexible safety solutions. Advanced Motion & Controls Ltd. offers a comprehensive safety technology from Blue Danube Robotics: the AIRSKIN safety cover. Typically used with Universal Robots’ UR10 six-axis robotic arms, this is a comprehensive, pressure-sensitive collision sensor that enables close human-robot collaboration in cramped environments. Users can start, stop, and position collaborative robots, or “cobots”, with a touch of the hand or arm.

The highest safety level

Blue Danube has developed AIRSKIN based on a pragmatic approach, as a comprehensive solution. Users can install it quickly, and it connects directly to the robot controller rather than a safety fence, so it allows for collaborative applications. AIRSKIN functions on the highest safety level, certified according to ISO 13849 Cat. 3 / PLe and compatible with ISO / TS 15066-compliant applications.

The user covers robots and grippers with soft AIRSKIN pads, including clamping and shearing areas. This safety cover responds in the event of collisions between the robot and employees or objects and triggers an instant emergency stop. The soft pads also dampen the effects of force that could occur until the machine comes to a standstill.

AIRSKIN has a user-friendly design: it has a snap-on system that results in fast installation and easy maintenance. No experience is required to install this safety cover on a robot in less than half an hour; it connects to the robot like a typical safety fence, with no unexpected programming challenges. Another benefit is time and cost savings when integrating collaborative applications. It helps the operator eliminate fences, use the shop floor more efficiently, and improve machine use while boosting quality and productivity.

The third main advantage of this safety skin from Advanced Motion & Controls is new perspectives for production workers. Collaboration between robots and humans blends the respective strengths of both. Robots perform simple, repetitive tasks that would harm workers ergonomically in the long run. Following successful collaborative applications, production personnel can independently find new tasks for the cobots, while workers take on more complex jobs.

To learn more, contact Advanced Motion & Controls.

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