Collaborative robots are emerging as a key driver of Industry 4.0, offering automation solutions optimized for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) based on advantages such as relatively low initial investment costs and installation flexibility i...
Collaborative robots are emerging as a key driver of Industry 4.0, offering automation solutions optimized for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) based on advantages such as relatively low initial investment costs and installation flexibility in limited spaces. Furthermore, their importance is highlighted by their potential to mitigate work-related musculoskeletal disorders, stress, and fatigue, thereby contributing to the creation of an inclusive labor market where older workers can remain economically active for longer periods. This study aimed to derive policy priorities and practical support measures to ensure the successful establishment of collaborative robots in smart manufacturing sites and to revitalize the industry. To this end, the study analyzed existing safety standards and legislation for collaborative robots and sought measures to secure safety across the entire lifecycle of AI-based collaborative robots by benchmarking cases of autonomous vehicles equipped with AI-based driving mechanisms.
In particular, the results of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) conducted with a group of experts from industry, academia, and research institutes led to the core conclusion that the successful activation of collaborative robots depends on strengthening 'Industrial Ecosystem Capability'—which enables the implementation and sustainable operation of robots on-site—rather than on simple technology development (R&D) or financial support.
Specifically, 'Strengthening the expertise of System Integration (SI) companies' and 'Cultivating on-site professionals' were identified as 'Top Priority Concentration Areas,' characterized by high importance but insufficient current preparedness. In contrast, traditional policy tools such as financial support or deregulation appeared to have relatively lower urgency. These findings suggest that the focus of policy must shift from existing supply-oriented approaches toward enhancing on-site receptivity.
It is expected that this study will serve as foundational data for establishing effective policies in the future, ultimately contributing to positioning collaborative robots as a core engine of the domestic smart manufacturing sector.