5 Cobot Myths That Are Holding Manufacturers Back

Despite the growing presence of cobots, many manufacturers are still hesitant to adopt them. Usually, this hesitation stems from misconceptions about how cobots operate, their costs, and the perceived complexity of integrating them into existing operations.

In this article, we’ll explore five common myths about cobots that may be preventing companies from leveraging increasingly accessible automation tools.

 

Myth 1: Cobots are too expensive for small manufacturers

Many small and mid-sized manufacturers still believe that robotics needs a big capital investment. While this was true for traditional automation systems, cobots follow a different model. They are smaller, easier to set up, and don’t usually require safety fencing or special infrastructure. This results in lower initial costs and quicker deployment.

A typical cobot setup, including a robotic arm, controller, and basic gripper or 3D scanner, can cost less than the annual salary of a single operator. When used for repetitive tasks like machine tending, inspection, or packaging, many cobots achieve a full return on investment in under twelve months. Sometimes, the payback period is as short as three to six months, depending on the specific application and labor costs.

Financial support is often available. Many regions provide automation grants, tax deductions, or low-interest loans to companies investing in robotics. These programs help lower the risk for smaller manufacturers taking their first step in automation.

 

Myth 2: You need a programmer to use one

Modern cobots are designed for use by technicians and line workers, not programmers. Most systems let users manually teach tasks by moving the robot arm and recording its positions. Other features include visual programming environments with clear menus and drag-and-drop logic.

Everyday tasks, such as pick-and-place, palletizing, and simple assembly, can often be programmed in less than a day. Cobots also support templates for frequently used operations, making it easy to standardize work across shifts or operators. More advanced features, such as vision systems or sensor feedback, can be added gradually without requiring a complete reprogramming.

The learning curve is shallow, and most teams feel comfortable using the system after only a few hours of training. This removes the need for a dedicated robotics engineer, giving control directly to the equipment’s users.

 

Myth 3: Cobots aren’t safe to work around humans

Safety concerns often come from past experiences with industrial robots that require physical barriers. Cobots, by design, are built to operate near people. They use force and torque sensors to detect collisions and can stop immediately if they come into contact with a person or obstacle. More systems also include adjustable speed and force limits to ensure safety compliance.

Cobots are tested against international standards, including ISO 10218 and ISO/TS 15066. These standards specify the requirements for safe collaborative operations. While a risk assessment is still required before deployment, many cobot setups do not need cages or fencing. Visual cues, limited work areas, and safety-rated stop functions are often sufficient to meet compliance standards.

In practical terms, this enables workers and cobots to share a station. A cobot performs repetitive motions while a person conducts inspections or adjustments in the same area. This type of shared workflow is already implemented in many factories and assembly plants.

 

Myth 4: Cobots are too weak or limited

Cobots are not built to replace heavy-duty industrial robots. Instead, they focus on tasks that require precision, consistency, and repeatability. Most cobots support payloads ranging from 3 to 20 kilograms, which is sufficient for many handling, assembly, and machine loading tasks.

Cobots are frequently used in small parts assembly, quality inspection with vision systems, screwdriving, adhesive application, and light welding. In these applications, the limiting factor is rarely strength but rather consistency and accuracy. Cobots thrive in high-mix environments where frequent changeovers and short production runs are typical.

Because they are easy to reconfigure, cobots also enable flexible manufacturing. A single unit can handle multiple tasks during a shift or move between workstations as demand varies. This adaptability is often more valuable than raw power in small and mid-sized operations.

 

Myth 5: Installing a cobot will disrupt production

Cobots are designed for quick integration. A simple application can often be set up in a day, including installation, task programming, and operator training. Because cobots usually don’t need safety cages or major layout changes, they can easily be added to existing cells without stopping ongoing production.

Mounting options are flexible. Cobots can be installed on a bench, mobile cart, or directly next to a machine. This makes them suitable for pilot projects, temporary applications, and permanent installations.

Many companies start automating just one workstation. This method lets them evaluate performance, improve workflows, and build internal confidence before expanding. Over time, the same cobot can be reassigned to new tasks as business needs change. This modular deployment approach helps lower risk and prevent the long-term disruptions often associated with traditional automation.

With those five myths now busted, why not take a look at what Revopoint Robots can do for you? Their affordability, ease of use, built-in safety features, and versatility in tasks make them a practical option across many industries.