New ASTM Standard to Enhance Robot Performance in ASEAN Factories

New ASTM Standard to Boost Robot Reliability in Real-World Conditions for ASEAN Factories \\[n] The robotics industry is on the cusp of a significant advancement with the development of a new ASTM International standard. This proposed standard, currently under development by the ASTM International’s robotics committee (F45), aims to measure the task performance of manipulators and mobile manipulators under controlled optical-signal degradation. For factories in Southeast Asia, this could mean a substantial improvement in the reliability and efficiency of their robotic systems. \\[n] In the real world, robots often face challenging conditions that can degrade the quality of the optical information they rely on. Factors such as changing light, reflective materials, interference, and high temperatures can all affect the performance of optical sensors like cameras. According to Aarati Noronha, an expert in the field, these stressors can make tasks that are straightforward under ideal conditions much more difficult in the real world. “I’ve seen this in various applications, from warehouse palletization to autonomous strawberry harvesting,” says Noronha. “The degraded signal can act as a distractor, leaving downstream machine-learning models with poorer information to work from.” \\[n] The proposed test method (WK100792) would provide a standardized way to measure how well robots perform under these degraded conditions. This is particularly important for factories in ASEAN countries, where environmental factors can vary widely. For example, in Thailand, the intense heat and humidity can affect the performance of optical sensors. In Vietnam, the presence of reflective materials in manufacturing processes can also pose challenges. Similarly, in Indonesia and Malaysia, the varying light conditions and potential for interference in industrial settings can impact robot performance. \\[n] By providing a repeatable and controlled method to test performance, the new standard will help manufacturers, developers, and end users identify and address system limitations before deploying robots in real-world environments. This not only enhances the reliability of robotic systems but also improves workplace safety and human-robot interaction. \\[n] The implications for ASEAN factories are significant. With a more reliable and robust testing method, factory owners can have greater confidence in the performance of their robotic systems. This, in turn, can lead to increased productivity, reduced downtime, and a safer working environment. As the region continues to invest in automation and robotics, this new standard will play a crucial role in ensuring that these technologies deliver on their promise. \\[n] **Takeaway for Factory Buyers:** \\[n] For factory buyers in ASEAN, the new ASTM standard offers a valuable tool to ensure that the robots they purchase are capable of performing reliably in real-world conditions. By adopting this standard, buyers can better evaluate the performance of different robotic systems and make informed decisions that will enhance their operations and contribute to the overall success of their businesses.