Glossary · Robotics
Workspace (robot)
Also known as: Working space, Working envelope, Work envelope
German: Arbeitsraum
In robotics, the workspace is the space that the wrist reference point or tool of a robot can reach, as determined by its kinematics and joint limits. Robot safety standards also distinguish the maximum space, the restricted space limited by limiting devices and the operating space used by the task.
- Robotics
- Standards
In one sentence
A robot's workspace is the space its wrist or tool can reach, set by kinematics and joint limits; safety standards also define restricted spaces.
Example
Soft axis limits reduce the robot's workspace so that the arm cannot swing over the operator's loading station.
How it applies
- Engineering: The manufacturer's working envelope drawing shows the reachable space; the layout places fixtures within it and guards outside the space the robot, tool and part can occupy.
- Commissioning: Safety-rated axis or zone limiting can reduce the restricted space; the limits are validated and documented, since guard distances depend on them.
- Documentation: The documentation team should distinguish reachable space, restricted space and operating space in the manual and show them in the layout. The robot's workspace is the basis for the Hazardous zone description.
Workspace vs. hazardous zone
The workspace is a property of the robot. The Hazardous zone is where persons are exposed to hazards; it includes the tool and part and, for fast robots, the stopping distance.