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DEPRAG HRC screwdriving system – safe, flexible and without a safety fence

With the DEPRAG HRC screwdriving system, humans and robots can work safely in the same workspace without a safety fence. A passive protective skin and a non-contact sensor ring trigger an immediate safety stop upon intervention or contact. As soon as the protective field is clear, the robot automatically resumes the process. This expands DEPRAG screwdriving units to include a system for safe, flexible assembly stations.

  • HRC without safety fence
  • Safety according to DIN ISO/TS 15066
  • Sophisticated sensor technology
  • DEPRAG Feed Module based & retrofittable

More information  Product catalogue DEPRAG Feed Module (DFM)

 

When automation needs to remain flexible

True human-robot collaboration remains difficult with traditional robot cells. While safe, they are often inflexible: safety fence here, release there, standstill in between. Especially with highly variable products, frequent changeovers, or manual intermediate steps, safety fence concepts quickly reach their limits.

The DEPRAG HRC screwdriving system closes this gap in assembly automation. It combines collaborative robotics with the proven DEPRAG Feed Module (DFM), enabling humans and robots to work together productively in the same workspace. This is achieved without separating safety barriers, yet still safely. The robot stops when necessary and then automatically resumes work, just as required by everyday assembly processes. 


The advantages of the DEPRAG HRC screwdriving system
 

  • Increased safety for the worker:
    Intervention or contact? The robot stops immediately. Compliant with DIN ISO/TS 15066.
     
  • Increased throughput & less downtime:
    The robot only stops in case of an incident and then continues automatically.
     
  • Greater flexibility in assembly:
    humans and robots work in parallel in the same workspace.
     
  • Less space required:
    No separating protective devices, no unnecessary safety zones.
     
  • Quick start & retrofitting:
    Existing manual workstations or DEPRAG screwdriving units can be converted to a collaborative robot solution.


This is how the system works:
 

The security concept is deliberately simple and therefore reliable. 

  • A protective cover covers the sharp corners and edges of the screw unit. 

  • A non-contact sensor ring monitors the protective field around the tool. 

If an unexpected intervention occurs, a safety stop is triggered immediately. Once the workspace is clear again, the robot automatically resumes its movement. No complicated procedures. No unnecessary downtime. 

HRC screwdriving system for collaborative assembly processes

Robots are indispensable in modern production. At the same time, humans remain essential in many applications, such as positioning, testing, or rework. The HRC screwdriving system enables precisely this efficient human-robot collaboration (HRC) without unnecessarily slowing down or complicating the process with fences or separating safety devices.

The safety concept combines a passive protective skin with a non-contact sensor ring. If the protective field is breached or pressure is applied, a safety stop is triggered immediately. As soon as the protective field is clear again, the robot automatically resumes the process – without manual intervention.

Another advantage: In areas where protective barriers are in place and there is no danger to the operator, the safety function of the sensor ring can be deactivated. The robot then operates at a higher speed. Ideal for productive cycle times combined with high process reliability.

 

The HRC screwdriving system is designed for use with Universal Robots: UR3e, UR5e, UR7e, UR10e, UR12e, UR15 and UR16e. The SICK End-of-Arm Safeguard URCap (version 1.2.0 and later) is also required and is installed on the robot controller by the integrator.

 

The system is based on the DEPRAG Feed Module (DFM). The screwdriver, nozzle, and feeder remain familiar. Existing screwdriving systems can be retrofitted for human-robot collaboration (HRC) – a clear advantage when existing equipment is to be reused.

 

The LED indicator on the sensor ring clearly shows what is happening:

  • Green: Protection field clear, system active

  • Orange: Security function deactivated

  • Red: Intervention detected, safety stop

No interpretation. No guesswork. 

Supply hoses, vacuum lines, or sensor cables can be routed directly through the sensor ring. Hose diameters up to 22 mm are permissible – sufficient for screws with head diameters up to approximately 14 mm.

 

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Typical areas of application

The HRC screwdriving system is particularly suitable for applications where automation and manual flexibility come together:

Automotive & suppliers:
Variant assemblies.

Electronics & Electrical Assembly:
Precise screw connections & short cycle times.

Household appliances:
Hybrid processes & changing product series.

Mechanical and plant engineering:
Small series production with many conversions.

Service & Integration

This is how you arrive at the HRC screwdriving solution

Step 1: Understanding the application

Screwdriving application, component geometry, cycle time, robot type, accessibility.

Step 2: Design & Safety Concept

Tool length, protective field, integration into the assembly process.

Step 3: Integration / Retrofit

Integration into DEPRAG Feed Module or conversion of existing DFM systems.

Step 4: Commissioning & Training

Safe operation, worker handling, process release.

Safe and productive HRC screwdriving with DEPRAG

With the DEPRAG HRC screwdriving system, you create safety, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness at collaborative assembly stations. Whether for new installations or retrofitting: We support you from design to commissioning. Contact us and let's assess your situation together.

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