Overview
ISO/PAS 5672:2023 - "Robotics - Collaborative applications - Test methods for measuring forces and pressures in human‑robot contacts" defines standardized test methods and analysis techniques for measuring forces and pressures during physical human‑robot contact. The specification focuses on collaborative applications in industrial and service environments for professional use and defines characteristics and calibration needs for pressure‑force measurement devices (PFMD). It excludes non‑professional (consumer) robots and medical robots, organizational procedures, and other contact hazards (e.g., shearing, electrical).
Keywords: ISO/PAS 5672:2023, collaborative robotics, human‑robot contact, PFMD, force measurement, pressure measurement, safety testing.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and applicability: Applies to professional collaborative robot applications; measurement methods can be adapted for other fields if appropriate.
- Pressure‑Force Measurement Devices (PFMDs): Specification of PFMD characteristics, calibration requirements, and sensor performance (force sensors and pressure sensors). PFMDs may include materials to replicate human biomechanical response.
- Measurement methods: Defined methods for common contact types such as pinch/crush and impact, including approaches for limited installation space and fixed vs. moveable PFMDs.
- Measurement procedure: Stepwise testing process covering preparation, executing replicated contact events, data capture, analysis, comparison to biomechanical limits, and test reporting. The document summarizes test steps (prepare, replicate contact, analyze, compare with limits, document, iterate).
- Contact classification: Guidance on classifying contacts by load profile (quasi‑static vs. dynamic) and spatial configuration (constrained vs. unconstrained - e.g., unconstrained requires ~500 mm free distance).
- Supporting content: Informative annexes with installation guidance, resolution considerations for pressure mapping, example applications (pick‑and‑place, mobile picker), and reporting templates.
Practical applications and users
ISO/PAS 5672:2023 is intended for:
- System integrators and safety engineers validating collaborative robot applications.
- Operators and facility managers commissioning robot cells in industrial or service contexts.
- Manufacturers of PFMDs and sensor systems seeking compliance and test guidance.
- Test laboratories performing biomechanical contact assessments.
Use cases include validating robot speed/force limiting, assessing pinch/impact risks, and documenting compliance during risk assessment and safety verification.
Related standards
- ISO 10218‑2 (industrial robot systems - safety requirements)
- ISO 12100 (safety of machinery - risk assessment)
- ISO/TS 15066 (collaborative robot safety guidance)
- ISO/IEC Guide 50 (child safety considerations, where applicable)
Implementers should consult these related standards when planning tests and interpreting biomechanical limits.