PR85314

NORTHBROOK, Illinois, Aug. 31, 2020 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/ --

--Introduction of UL's first-ever consumer and commercial robot certification

document addresses human-robot interaction safety concerns

UL, a leading global safety science company, has issued UL 3300 (

https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&l=en&o=2901725-1&h=2655258081&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shopulstandards.com%2FProductDetail.aspx%3FproductId%3DUL3300_1_O_20200824&a=UL+3300

), the Outline of Investigation (OOI) for Service, Communication, Information,

Education and Entertainment (SCIEE) Robots. The document describes the

requirements used to evaluate robot operational safety focusing on

multidirectional mobility, fire and shock hazards, external manipulation, user

classes, and use surroundings. Since SCIEE (pronounced sky) robots typically

operate near humans, the outline places a priority on the safe operation of

robots in a variety of environments where people are present.

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"Robot technology and applications are quickly expanding from the industrial

and manufacturing segment to public and commercial spaces as well as within

homes to assist and improve quality of life for people," said Michael Sakamoto,

senior manager of UL's Consumer Technology division. "As this trend

accelerates, additional safety concerns, including those associated with robot

and human interactions, need to be identified and addressed."

Rapid technological advancements are giving rise to a new generation of robots

that have the ability to perform diverse tasks in open spaces and work with and

alongside people. While already a mainstay within industrial and manufacturing

sectors, next-generation robots are being utilized in nontraditional settings,

such as grocery stores, hotels, airports, banks, shopping malls and public

spaces, including sidewalks and parks. In addition, they are increasingly

showing up in homes. With an increasing number of people living alone, service

robots can be a welcome addition to the household. According to a presentation

at World Robotics 2019 delivered by the International Federation of Robotics

(IFR), the domestic and professional service robot sector is predicted to grow

more than 40% (CAGR) over the next three years. While it's already a $17.2

billion industry, according to IFR, COVID-19 has pushed aggressive development

of solutions to address the pandemic.  

Robots are being utilized to improve efficiency and productivity. With the

latest robotic technology innovations, they also are being utilized to boost

customer service, grow an operation's flexibility and enhance brand value. With

growing interest of robots in all areas of an organization, from brand and

marketing and customer experience leadership to business strategists and IT

heads, the safe deployment and operation of robots, especially in the public

domain, has become a key concern for businesses globally.

"UL 3300 demonstrates how we are addressing the increasing complexities of

consumer and commercial robots, as showcased in the active participation and

leadership in robot safety standards development, technical committees and

industry working groups," Sakamoto said. "Helping to bring innovative robot

technologies to market fast, our teams are poised to work with robot equipment

and component manufacturers early in the product design stage to help get ahead

of potential safety issues and avoid late stage production delays that impact

the bottom line and customer trust."

The UL Standards division of Underwriters Laboratories, our nonprofit

affiliate, is beginning the process of developing a consensus standard using

the UL 3300 OOI as the seed document. To apply for participation on the

Standards Technical Panel, please contact Deborah Prince, standards program

manager, Underwriters Laboratories. To purchase a copy of UL 3300, please visit

https://shopULstandards.com. For more information or to request a quote for

evaluation and/or product certification, contact ctech@ul.com.

About UL

UL helps create a better world by applying science to solve safety, security

and sustainability challenges. We empower trust by enabling the safe adoption

of innovative new products and technologies. Everyone at UL shares a passion to

make the world a safer place. All of our work, from independent research and

standards development, to testing and certification, to providing analytical

and digital solutions, helps improve global well-being. Businesses, industries,

governments, regulatory authorities and the public put their trust in us so

they can make smarter decisions. To learn more, visit UL.com. To learn more

about our nonprofit activities, visit UL.org.

Press contact:

Steven Brewster

UL

steven.brewster@ul.com

1+847.664.8425

SOURCE: UL