Cobot or robot? Understanding the shift in automation terminology
At recent industry events, one word continues to dominate conversations: “cobot.” But is it really the robot that is collaborative—or is it the application?
From April 2025, the latest ISO 10218-1 and 10218-2:2025 standards have made a fundamental shift in how robotic safety is defined. According to robotics experts, the terms “collaborative robot” and “collaborative operation” are no longer used. Instead, safety is now defined by the design and validation of the application in which a robot operates. This is further endorsed by Vanessa Loiola (‘The Robot Queen’).
This represents a major conceptual change and the market needs educating. Safety is no longer about labelling a robot as “collaborative.” It’s about assessing risk across the entire system, including the robot, its end-effector, the workpiece, and the surrounding environment, and integrating safety measures from the design stage.
What this means for businesses
For organisations investing in automation, this is a call to rethink how robotic solutions are selected and implemented. Comprehensive risk assessments, system-level safety validations, and application-specific integration are now the benchmarks of modern robotic safety.
Application-centric automation
As the authorised UK distributor and integrator for Techman Robot, LG Motion specialises in delivering solutions that align with the updated ISO 10218:2025 standards. Techman robots feature built-in AI vision systems and versatile payloads (5–30 kg) with reach up to 1902 mm, enabling applications such as quality inspection, assembly, and pick-and-place operations.
Our engineering expertise ensures that each deployment is safe, compliant, and optimised for efficiency:
- End-to-end integration services: From consultation to full system integration, we handle mechanical design, control systems, and safety validation.
- Commitment to compliance: Our solutions prioritise ISO 10218:2025 adherence and industry best practices.
Explore the Techman Robot range
Learn how Techman Robots can enhance your operations and deliver safe, efficient automation at techman.lg-motion.co.uk.
Cobot or robot?
The answer is no longer just a label. It’s about the application, the system, and the safety-first design that LG Motion brings to every project.
