The Robotics Functions Subcommittee within ASTM International is set out to identify emerging sectors that will benefit from the organization’s standards and testing expertise on a global scale. This strategic initiative aims to capitalize on robotics’ transformative impact across diverse industries, fostering innovation and ensuring the safety of these applications worldwide. By collaborating with stakeholders and industry leaders, the subcommittee will develop and refine standards for new markets, driving growth, and addressing the evolving needs of a rapidly changing technological landscape.

The F45.07 Robotics Functions Subcommittee is tasked with establishing requirements for Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicles (A-UGVs), drawing parallels with the Husky agricultural robotic model. Supply: Clearpath

As robots emerge from factories, warehouses, and fields, evolving demands must be met. The ASTM International organization currently announces its acceptance of the establishment of a newly formed subcommittee focused on robotics applications worldwide. Its purpose is to provide a platform where representatives from various industries converge to establish industry-specific requirements.

The newly established subcommittee within ASTM will empower members to tackle robotics initiatives across industries including oil and gas, agriculture, construction, photovoltaics, and nuclear, as stated by Adam Norton, chair of the committee’s Robotics, Automation, and Autonomous Systems Group.

The portfolio of F45 requirements has been purposefully designed to be versatile, allowing for seamless adaptation to diverse applications, noted Norton, affiliate director of the New England Robotics Validation and Experimentation (NERVE) center at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.

Robotic Systems Functionality Development Committee to refine existing standards and guidelines.

The Robotics Functions Subcommittee will leverage existing knowledge to develop innovative solutions that align with specifications, guidelines, and review strategies. The standards requirements will address the specific needs of robotics, automation, and autonomous technologies as outlined by ASTM.

“According to Norton, numerous activity teams will be formed for each utility space, all of which will be led by subject-matter specialists (SMEs) who will not only develop requirements within their respective subcommittee, but also serve as advisors to other subcommittees.”

The subcommittee intends to launch with a primary focus on three core objectives: All events are invited to participate in F45.07.

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ASTM provides automation subcommittees

The Robotics Functions Subcommittee will be a constituent member of the various subcommittees operating beneath ASTM F45, alongside:

According to Robert, director of robotics and autonomous systems programs at ASTM International, the growth of robotics and automation continues to expand into new industries and sectors. “Some industries have acknowledged the need for additional guidelines, best practices, and refined requirements beyond existing robotics standards in order to achieve success.”

“This newly established subcommittee under F45 will facilitate collaboration between materials experts from various industries and robotics/automation specialists, accelerating the development of a next-level integration that expedites robotic and automation deployments.” “It’s a win-win situation for both industries and companies looking to deploy robots within them.”