The Rise of Pneumatic Cobots: A Game Changer in Automation

For over two decades, collaborative robots (cobots) have revolutionized the manufacturing landscape, offering a versatile, cost-effective, and safe alternative to traditional automation. These robots work side-by-side with human operators, enhancing productivity without the need for complex safety barriers or fencing. However, cobot manufacturers have always faced a delicate balancing act: ensuring the right combination of power and control. This challenge is amplified by the type of power source the cobot uses, whether electric, pneumatic, or another form. Recently, a groundbreaking innovation has surfaced—a cobot powered entirely by pneumatic systems. But what does this new technology bring to the table, and how does it compare to traditional electric cobots? Let’s dive in.

The Pneumatic Cobot: A New Era of Power and Precision

The latest addition to the cobot market comes from Festo, a leading automation technology provider. Their new all-pneumatic cobot, which was unveiled in 2023, marks the first of its kind. Unlike traditional electric cobots that rely on electric motors and mechanical transmission systems, this pneumatic cobot uses six pneumatic direct drives. These drives consist of circular chambers with movable partitions, and air pressure variations cause the joints to move. This design eliminates the need for external motors or control cabinets, making it lightweight, simple, and incredibly versatile.

The pneumatic cobot is also highly safe. Its pneumatic system automatically regulates pressure in the joints when it senses an imminent collision, reducing torque to zero. Additionally, its soft-touch technology ensures that the cobot behaves like a human in case of an impact, minimizing potential harm to both the operator and the machine.

Key Advantages of Pneumatic Cobots

1. Lightweight and Flexible Design

Pneumatic cobots weigh just 17 kilograms, making them easy to transport and set up by a single person. Without the need for external hardware or large mechanical parts, they offer superior flexibility and can be deployed in various environments and applications with minimal hassle.

2. Smooth and Precise Movements

Unlike electric cobots, which can sometimes exhibit stiffness due to the large motors, pneumatic drives allow for smoother and more fluid movements. This results in precise, agile operations, which is particularly beneficial in delicate assembly tasks or environments that require a high degree of maneuverability.

3. Low Maintenance and Durability

The simplicity of pneumatic systems means fewer parts that can wear out or break down. Pneumatic cobots are generally more durable and require less maintenance than their electric counterparts. This reduces downtime and ensures that operations remain efficient for longer periods.

4. User-Friendly Programming

One of the standout features of pneumatic cobots, like their electric counterparts, is their ease of use. Thanks to low-code programming, even users without specialized programming skills can set up and operate the cobot. Festo reports that some pneumatic cobots can be up and running in under an hour, with an intuitive guided configuration mode that allows for quick and easy programming.

The Limitations of Pneumatic Cobots

While pneumatic cobots offer several benefits, they also come with certain limitations that might make electric alternatives a better choice in some situations.

1. Limited Speed Control

Pneumatic systems are less effective than electric motors when it comes to fine-tuning speed. While pneumatic cobots can move smoothly, they don’t offer the same level of speed control that electric cobots provide. This can be a drawback in applications that require rapid and precise speed adjustments.

2. Environmental Considerations

One issue with pneumatic systems is that they rely on compressed air, which can contain water. Over time, this moisture can accumulate in the pipes, potentially affecting the performance and longevity of the cobot. This issue is particularly concerning in environments with temperature fluctuations, such as food and beverage processing plants, where freezing conditions may also come into play.

3. Best for Light and Medium-Duty Tasks

Pneumatic cobots excel in light and medium-duty applications, but their power limitations make them less suitable for heavy-duty tasks. For industrial applications requiring high lifting capabilities or high force output, electric cobots might still be the better option.

Where Do Pneumatic Cobots Shine?

Pneumatic cobots are ideal for applications where agility, safety, and ease of use are paramount. These robots excel in environments where human operators work closely with machines, as their soft-touch technology ensures that interactions are safe. They are perfect for light and medium-duty tasks such as pick-and-place, assembly, packaging, and quality control. Their simplicity and low weight also make them a great choice for companies looking to implement automation without the need for complex infrastructure.

Conclusion: Are Pneumatic Cobots the Future?

The emergence of pneumatic cobots opens up exciting possibilities for the future of automation. While they may not replace electric cobots in every application, they offer a compelling alternative in environments that prioritize safety, flexibility, and ease of use. With their lightweight design, smooth movements, and low maintenance requirements, pneumatic cobots are poised to become a powerful tool in industries ranging from manufacturing to logistics. As this technology continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how pneumatic and electric cobots coexist in the ever-expanding world of automation.