Trends in Robotics and Service Robot Modularity Standardization

Robotics standardization can be broadly divided into industrial robots and service robots, primarily driven by safety and performance considerations. However, as robotic functions become more advanced, and the application fields are becoming more segmented. Recently, with advancements in cloud computing and physical AI, the intelligence of robots is being enhanced, leading to applications that integrate robotic technology with standards related to cloud, IoT, and artificial intelligence. This paper reports on the international standardization trends promoted by ISO, IEC, ITU-T, IEEE, and OMG, and the domestic standardization activities of KOROS and KS, and analyzes the current status and issues of the modularity standards for service robots being promoted by ISO TC299 Robotics. ISO is engaged in the standardization of both industrial and service robots, while IEC is focusing on cleaning robots, household mobile robots, and medical robots. IEEE has published several standards related to 2D/3D map, ontology, and robot ethics, and has recently initiated the standardization of humanoid robots. OMG is working towards interoperability of robots, while standards linking robotics with IT are being published through ITU-T. The information model for service robot modules will enable the reuse of modules produced by applying modular design principles and the development of robots by combining modules, and will serve as the basis for creating a robot ecosystem in the form of subscription services in the future.