Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Thomas Koch is a leading researcher in industrial robotics, specializing in human-robot collaboration (HRC) and safety systems for automated manufacturing. His work focuses on bridging the gap between flexible production demands and stringent safety requirements. Koch’s major contributions include pioneering approaches for the automated configuration and dynamic reconfiguration of safety programs—a critical step toward truly adaptive robot cells. He also developed a translator framework architecture for industrial robot programming languages, facilitating seamless simulation and offline programming across diverse native languages. His practical innovations are exemplified by the design of a Balanced Decoupling Unit for safe automated screwing processes, which addresses both process reliability and safety in HRC environments. With over 37 citations across his most-cited works, Koch’s research has directly influenced the implementation of fenceless, force-limited robot applications. His 2019 paper on automated safety configuration remains a key reference for engineers seeking to integrate changeability with certified safety, while his detailed case studies on HRC switching modes provide actionable blueprints for industry. Koch’s work is essential reading for anyone advancing collaborative robotics in real-world production.