The Expanding Role of Standards in Robotics Across Diverse Industries

ASTM launches a new subcommittee to focus on application-level robotics standards across numerous industries

Aug 02, 2024

“Victory comes from finding opportunities in problems.” - Sun Tzu

As robots increasingly move from traditional settings like factories and warehouses to more varied environments such as agricultural fields, construction sites, and solar farms, the need for updated and specialized standards becomes more pressing. Recognizing this, our team at ASTM International has announced the formation of a new subcommittee dedicated to robotics applications. This initiative aims to create a collaborative platform where industry representatives can develop standards tailored to their sectors.

The New Subcommittee's Focus

The newly approved Robotics Applications Subcommittee, part of ASTM's F45 Robotics, Automation, and Autonomous Systems Committee, will address the unique needs of various industries, including oil and gas, agriculture, construction, solar, and nuclear. According to Adam Norton, chair of the F45 committee and associate director of the New England Robotics Validation and Experimentation (NERVE) Center at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, the subcommittee will allow ASTM members to create standards that are specific to these applications.

“The portfolio of F45 standards to date has been intentionally developed to be general so they can be easily adapted to particular applications,” said Norton. This approach ensures flexibility, enabling standards to be fine-tuned to meet the diverse requirements of different industries.

Building on Existing Standards

The new subcommittee will leverage existing F45 standards to create new specifications, guides, and test methods tailored to specific applications of robotics, automation, and autonomous systems. ASTM has emphasized the importance of these standards in addressing the distinct needs of various sectors, facilitating safer and more efficient deployment of robotic technologies.

“Several task groups for each application area are in the process of being formed,” Norton explained. “These groups, led by subject-matter experts (SMEs), will not only develop standards within the subcommittee but also provide expertise to other subcommittees.”

The subcommittee plans to initially concentrate on the solar, construction, and agricultural sectors. These industries are seeing rapid growth in adopting robotic technologies, making the development of specific standards critical. For instance, robots are increasingly used in agriculture for tasks such as planting, harvesting, and monitoring crop health, which requires precise and reliable standards to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Joining Forces with Existing Subcommittees

The Robotics Applications Subcommittee will join several existing subcommittees under ASTM F45, including:

Invitation to Participate

We would like to invite all interested parties to join the new F45.07, the Robotics Applications Subcommittee, to contribute to this crucial effort. By participating, stakeholders can help shape the standards that will guide the future of robotics in their industries, ensuring that these technologies are deployed safely and effectively.

TL;DR

As robotics use continues to expand into new and diverse fields, the development of industry-specific standards is essential. ASTM International's new Robotics Applications Subcommittee represents a significant step forward in this effort, providing a dedicated platform for developing the standards to support the safe and efficient integration of robotics across various sectors. This initiative not only enhances the capabilities of robotic systems but also fosters innovation and growth in industries ranging from agriculture to nuclear energy.

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