Safe Human-Robot-Collaboration (HRC) based on a new concept considering human movement variability

3D-simulation of human-robot work places and processes allows the prediction of failures during manufacturing at an early stage. Furthermore, it helps to optimize the production processes. In human robot collaboration (HRC) scenarios, while machines and robots work reliably and predictably, humans can vary in their movements and actions without an obvious reason. This is a particular challenge during the planning and simulating of HRC processes. For safe and realistic simulation of Human-Robot-Collaboration-scenarios, existing digital human models should be further developed taking into account the variability of human movements. This paper will represent a new concept considering the human movement variability in HRC applications. This concept will be later integrated in 3D-simulation for insuring the safety and efficiency of HRC-processes during the offline planning phase. Furthermore, the standard safety requirements and industrial standards in HRC applications will be also considered in this approach. As a result, this paper shows a procedural method in which the human movement variability in HRC can be examined on the basis of empirical studies. The results of these studies will be used to describe the human movement variability in HRC in a mathematical model. In further developments this model will be implemented for the automatic design of the safety technology in HRC applications.