The primary function of encasing metal structures in 3D-printed soft rubber shells is to safeguard human operators in collaborative workspaces. The rubber acts as a physical buffer over the tool's rigid internal components, significantly reducing the severity of impact should a collision occur between the robot and a worker.
The soft shell is the critical enabler for collaborative robot (cobot) applications, transforming a potentially hazardous industrial tool into a safe partner for artisans working on the same production line.
Enhancing Workplace Safety
The Impact Barrier
In an industrial setting, the internal components of polishing tools are typically made of hard metal to withstand mechanical stress.
The soft rubber shell creates a necessary protective layer around these rigid parts. This barrier ensures that if a worker makes accidental contact with the tool, they strike a compliant surface rather than unyielding metal.
Reducing Injury Severity
Robots in motion possess kinetic energy that can be dangerous when transferred through a hard surface.
The 3D-printed rubber acts as a shock absorber. By dampening the force of a collision, the shell directly reduces the risk of impact-related injuries during the robot's movement.
Facilitating Human-Robot Collaboration
Enabling Close Interaction
Modern production lines often require "artisans"—skilled human workers—to work in close proximity to machinery.
The rubber shell allows for this physical closeness. Without this protective casing, the robot would likely require safety cages or barriers, preventing the fluid interaction required in collaborative polishing workflows.
Regulatory Compliance
Collaborative robots must adhere to strict safety standards to operate without heavy guarding.
Incorporating a soft shell is a key design strategy to meet these compliance requirements. It validates the tool's use in environments where the separation between man and machine is minimal.
Understanding the Operational Trade-offs
Design Necessity vs. Complexity
While the shell is critical for safety, it adds a layer of design complexity to the tool.
The casing must be precisely 3D-printed to fit the specific metal geometry without impeding the tool's polishing function. It is not merely an aesthetic addition; it is a functional requirement that dictates the final form factor of the device.
Material Limitations
The reliance on soft rubber means the outer surface is inherently less durable than the metal beneath it.
In high-friction environments, the condition of this shell must be monitored. If the rubber degrades or tears, the safety factor is compromised, and the tool may no longer be compliant for collaborative use until the shell is replaced.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
When integrating robotic polishing tools, consider the following to ensure safety and efficiency:
- If your primary focus is Operator Safety: Ensure the 3D-printed shell provides comprehensive coverage of all rigid impact points on the tool.
- If your primary focus is Workflow Efficiency: Leverage the safety provided by the shell to position human workers closer to the robot, reducing travel time and streamlining hand-offs.
The integration of soft rubber shells is the defining feature that allows heavy metal tooling to exist safely within a human-centric workspace.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Purpose | Impact on Workflow |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Buffer | Impact energy absorption | Significantly reduces injury severity |
| Soft Material | Collision protection | Eliminates the need for physical safety cages |
| 3D-Printed Fit | Precision geometry | Ensures safety without impeding tool performance |
| Compliance | Regulatory adherence | Meets safety standards for cobot environments |
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References
- Jorge Borrell Méndez, J. Ernesto Solanes. Cooperative human–robot polishing for the task of patina growing on high-quality leather shoes. DOI: 10.1007/s00170-022-10620-6
This article is also based on technical information from 3515 Knowledge Base .
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