Human - robot interaction dynamic in industry 5.0 : maximizing performance and ensuring safety

Abstract

As industry 5.0 begins to take shape and the focus is shifting from full automation to a move balanced partnership between people and smart machines. This thesis explores how humans and robots can work together effectively, and area known as human and robot collaboration (HRC). The goal is to boost productivity while keeping the work environment safe for everyone involved. Robots are built to work side by side with human operators. But for them to be truly effective it’s not just about technology. It’s also about building trust with workers and designing systems that are comfortable and intuitive to use. This study uses a mixed method approach that blends theoretical modelling, digital twin simulations, hands-on experiments of robotic air bag. It builds on established frameworks like the 5C model of human-robot collaboration and the safety – performance trade-off to explore how people and collaborative robots (cobots) can work together safely in real settings. A key part of the research involved developing and testing a robotic airbag designed to protect workers during accidental collisions with cobots. Both simulations and real impact tests confirmed that the airbag effectively reduced force, allowing robots to operate at high-robot collaboration isn’t just about having advanced technology it also depends heavily on building trust, ensuring comfort, and designing systems that are easy to use. In short, prioritizing human-centred design and smart safety measures is crucial for creating workplaces that are both safe and efficient. The study concludes by presenting a practical framework for introducing collaborative robots (cobots) into industrial environments one that strikes a balance between safety, performance, and human centred values. It offers clear, actionable recommendations for manufactures, system designers, and policymakers aimed at creating smarted, safer, and more adaptive workplaces. This contribution is especially important in the context of next generation of manufacturing industry, where humans and robots don’t just work together, but actively collaborate to achieve shared production goals.