Collaborative robots are a rapidly growing segment of industrial automation, thanks to their ease of use, which promises to democratize robots for small and midsize manufacturers. However, they have had to overcome limitations in payload, precision, and programming.

In this Special Focus Issue, we look at how cobots are changing how tasks such as machine tending, packaging, and welding are done. From manufacturing to e-commerce, we examine how different industries are using cobots and AI to boost productivity.