AIRSKIN :: Tactile Safety Skin System for Industrial Robots

AIRSKIN is an Austrian robotics safety technology company that has developed a groundbreaking tactile safety skin system for industrial robots. The company’s core innovation transforms traditional fenced industrial robots into high-performance, collaborative systems without sacrificing speed, payload, or reach.

AIRSKIN is a soft, pressure-sensitive protective layer that is mounted directly onto the robot’s structure. It acts as a full-body collision sensor, instantly detecting contact with humans or objects and triggering a safe stop according to the highest safety standards (PL e, Cat. 3 / SIL 3). This allows robots to operate at full industrial speed (up to 6x faster than traditional cobots) while maintaining certified collaborative safety.

Key robot-based technology and solutions include:

• AIRSKIN for KUKA: Add-on safety skin kits for a wide range of KUKA industrial robots (light, medium, and heavy payload models). It converts standard industrial arms into safe collaborative systems without reducing performance.
• AIRSKIN for Stäubli TX2Touch: Integrated solution for Stäubli’s TX2 series, turning these powerful robots into certified collaborative systems.
• SCARAFLEX for Epson SCARA Robots: An upgrade that enables Epson SCARA robots to operate in collaborative cells with ISO/TS 15066 pre-certification.

Major Advantages of AIRSKIN:

• Speed & Performance: Robots maintain full speed, payload, and reach — unlike traditional cobots that are limited for safety reasons.
• Space Efficiency: Eliminates the need for safety fences and light curtains, saving up to 90% of floor space.
• Flexibility: The robot cell remains open and accessible, allowing easy human collaboration and layout changes.
• Workpiece Protection: Unique feature that protects not only humans but also the workpiece and robot tools from damage.
• Easy Integration: Can be retrofitted onto existing robots with minimal modification.

AIRSKIN has been successfully deployed in over 300 applications worldwide across automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and general manufacturing. The technology is particularly valuable for high-mix production environments where flexibility and space are critical.