Comparative study of the application of RCM and risk matrix for risk assessment of collaborative robots

Abstract

This paper is focused on the study and analysis of risks associated with collaborative robots. Currently, collaborative robots are in full development with application in different sectors of activity. However, for these new working situations the adoption of suitable risk assessment approaches is necessary to deal with all new parameters and risks generated by the collaborative work involving a machine and human beings. In this sense, it is important to assess the risks associated with the use of this type of machines, and different methodology of risk assessment can be used in these new and complex cases. A comparative study of two risk assessment methodologies was carried out to evaluate their suitability for risk management and thus to support the manufacturers and users of these machines in the use of appropriate and reliable risk assessment methodologies. The two methodologies, Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) and Risk Matrix, and the quality of the results obtained by their application are compared.