The most commonly used sensors in industrial robots are listed below.

Two dimensional visual sensor

Two dimensional vision is a camera that can perform various tasks, from detecting moving objects to locating parts on conveyor belts. Many smart cameras can detect parts and assist robots in determining their position, and robots can adjust their actions appropriately based on the received information.

3D vision sensor

A 3D vision system must have two cameras or laser scanners at different angles to detect the third dimension of an object. For example, part picking and placing is the use of 3D vision technology to detect objects and create 3D images, analyze and select the best picking method.

torque sensor

If visual sensors give robots eyes, then force/torque sensors bring touch to robots. Robots use force/torque sensors to sense the force of the end effector. In most cases, the force and torque sensor is located between the robot and the fixture, so that all forces fed back to the fixture are monitored by the robot. With force and torque sensors, applications such as assembly, manual guidance, teaching, and force limitation can be realized.

Collision detection sensor

This type of sensor comes in various forms, and its main application is to provide a safe working environment for operators, which collaborative robots need the most. Some sensors can be some kind of tactile recognition system, sensing pressure through soft surfaces, sending signals to robots to limit or stop their movement. Some sensors can also be directly integrated into robots. Some companies use accelerometer feedback, while others use current feedback. In both of these situations

When the robot senses abnormal force, it triggers an emergency stop to ensure safety.

To enable industrial robots to collaborate with humans, the first step is to find methods that can ensure the safety of workers. These sensors come in various forms, from cameras to lasers, etc., with the aim of informing the robot of the surrounding conditions. Some safety systems can be set to automatically slow down when someone appears in a specific area/space, and if the person continues to approach, the robot will stop working. The simplest example is the laser safety sensor on the elevator door. When the laser detects an obstacle, the elevator door will immediately stop and retract to avoid collision.

Other Sensors

The market There are many sensors available on the platform that are suitable for different applications. For example, weld seam tracking sensors, etc.

Tactile sensors are also becoming increasingly popular. This type of sensor is usually installed on the gripper to detect and feel what the grasped object is. Sensors are usually able to detect force and obtain the distribution of force, thereby knowing the exact position of the object, allowing you to control the grasping position and the grasping force of the end effector. Additionally, there are some tactile sensors that can detect changes in heat.

Visual and proximity sensors are similar to the sensors required for autonomous vehicles, including cameras, infrared, sonar, ultrasound, radar, and LiDAR. In some cases, multiple cameras can be used, especially for stereo vision. By combining these sensors, robots can determine dimensions, recognize objects, and determine their distance.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) sensors can provide identification codes and allow licensed robots to obtain other information.

Wind (acoustic sensor)

Assist industrial robots in receiving voice commands and recognizing abnormal sounds in familiar environments. If a piezoelectric sensor is added, it can also recognize and eliminate noise caused by vibration, avoiding robots from misinterpreting voice commands. Advanced algorithms can even allow robots to understand the speaker's emotions.

Temperature sensing is a part of robot self diagnosis, which can be used to determine its surrounding environment and avoid potential harmful heat sources. By utilizing chemical, optical, and color sensors, robots are able to evaluate, adjust, and detect issues present in their environment.

For humanoid robots that can walk, run, or even dance, stability is a major issue. They require sensors of the same type as smartphones to provide accurate location data for robots. In these applications, 9-DOF sensors or inertial measurement units (IMUs) with 3-axis accelerometers, 3-axis gyroscopes, and 3-axis magnetometers are used.

Sensors are key components for achieving software intelligence. Without sensors, many complex operations cannot be achieved. They not only enable complex operations, but also ensure that these operations are well controlled during the process.