An Intelligent Assist Device is a class of industrial manipulator designed to work in physical contact with a human operator. Unlike fully autonomous robots, an IAD uses sensors and control algorithms to read the operator's intent and provide power assistance, effectively making heavy payloads feel weightless. They are heavily used in automotive assembly and material handling to reduce ergonomic strain.
Heard on the job
We need to spec an IAD for the new engine block line so the operators don't blow out their shoulders.
Insider tip
When sizing an IAD, payload capacity is secondary to the responsiveness of the force sensors; a sluggish IAD causes more fatigue than manual lifting.
Also heard as
- intelligent assist device
Do not mix it up with
- Cobot: A cobot is a programmable robot safe to use near humans, while an IAD is directly driven by the physical pushing and pulling of the human operator.