CoBots — Robotic Screwdriving Systems
Carlson Robotic Screwdrivers are engineered specifically for human-robot screw assembly collaboration applications.
CoBots have taken the robotic screw assembly industry by storm, and for good reason. These machines are versatile, precise, and can be used in a wide variety of industries.
That’s why we’ve developed a line of CoBot screwdrivers specifically for HRC (human-robot-collaboration). With the onset of new Collaborative Robotics technology in the screw fastening industry, your production line workers can now work directly with robotic positioning systems – resulting in more efficient assembly processes and a safer working environment. This enables your workers to be more productive and focus on other tasks, while the CoBot takes care of the repetitive and dangerous screwdriving tasks. Alternatively, human-CoBot interaction can be used in a more efficient manner.
Carlson Engineering’s robotic screwdrivers can be configured to be compatible with all major brands of CoBots, including: Universal Robots, FANUC, KUKA, Yaskawa Motoman, ABB, etc.
As a result of both our advanced engineering and universal compatibility, we are quickly becoming the robotic screwdriving system provider of choice for companies around the globe who are looking to improve their production line efficiency and quality.
What is a CoBot?
A Collaborative Robot, or “CoBot”, is a robot designed to work safely and effectively alongside humans in manufacturing or other industrial applications. While CoBots have been around for a few years now, their use in robotic screwdriving systems is relatively new. The biggest advantage of using CoBots for robotic screwdriving are their size, price, flexibility, and collaborative abilities.
CoBots are typically much smaller than their industrial counterparts and thus take up less space on the factory floor. They are also much more affordable, which makes them a great option for small- to medium-sized businesses that want to automate their assembly processes to drive higher manufacturing ROI and output simultaneously.
Engineered for human-robot interactions.
For robotic screw driving applications requiring collaboration between a robotic screwdriver and a collaborative robotic positioning system (such as the Universal Robots UR5, shown here), a robotic screwdriver must be compatible with CoBot processes and also in compliance with ISO TS 15066 for operator safety. For this reason, we’ve engineered a line of robotic screwdrivers specifically for CoBots.
Why use CoBots in manufacturing?
The use of CoBots – or Collaborative Robots – in modern manufacturing and product assembly lines means that OEM manufacturers can build more efficiently, reduce operational costs, and have a safer and more inter-connected manufacturing environment. As a result, assembly lines that integrate robotic screwdriving technology by taking advantage of the HRC layout can have a more positive and proactive impact on the final product.
In the past, robotic arms for fastener automation applications have been large, expensive, and inflexible. These workhorses of the industry were great at getting the job done at scale and with minimal human interaction – but they weren’t always able to work hand-in-hand (literally) with people.
The evolution of CoBot technology has changed all of that.
Engineered for HRC interactions.
For robotic screw driving applications requiring collaboration between a screwdriving end-effector and a collaborative robotic positioning system (such as the Universal Robots UR5, shown here), a robotic screwdriver must be compatible with CoBot processes and also in compliance with ISO TS 15066 for operator safety. For this reason, we’ve engineered a line of robotic screwdrivers specifically for CoBots.
- Light weight and easy for a CoBot to maneuver.
- Protective enclosure safeguards operators from any potential pinch points.
- Mechanical air cylinder is programmable to work directly with the CoBot controller.
- All of the benefits of a standard Carlson Engineering automatic screwdriver, including enhanced durability, torque and speed control, and more.
Expert automatic screwdriving end-effectors.
With over 40 different automatic screwdriver models, our robotic screwdriver product line is virtually unmatched in performance, value, durability, and versatility. Whether your application requires a pneumatic, electric, or servo-driven screwdriver, we have the right model for the job and the ability to provide an end-effector that is ideal for a CoBot application.
CoBot applications that our screw driving systems can integrate into.
There are many different scenarios in which a CoBot robotic screw driving system could be employed in order to achieve an optimized assembly workflow – here are a few examples of CoBot applications in every-day manufacturing environments:

1. Human-Robot Collaboration
Applications that rely on full collaboration between a human operator and a CoBot.

2. HR Coexistence
Our robotic screwdrivers are safe and perfect for exposed coexistence in the workplace.

3. Inside Drive Cell
Fully-automated assembly processes that require a human operator and a protective cell.
Robotic screwdriving systems that are ideal for CoBot applications.
CoBot automatic screwdriver systems must be safe for HRC interactions, but also highly versatile & capable.
For this reason, we design, engineer, and code custom solutions that are unique to each application. All of our engineering and manufacturing processes are handled in-house to ensure the top-tier quality of our robotic screwdriver end-effectors.
- Screw Head Ø: 11-mm
- Screw Length: 38-mm
- Torque: 9-nm