TS ISO 8373

TS ISO 8373 is a vocabulary standard for robotics. Rather than setting performance rules for robots themselves, it establishes a common language for describing robotic systems, components and functions, which helps align engineering, procurement, training and technical communication around the same meanings.

Why robotics terminology matters

Robotics combines mechanics, actuation, sensing, control and software, so closely related terms can carry different technical meanings. Words such as robot, manipulator, axis or end effector may sound familiar, yet they refer to distinct concepts in engineering use. Vocabulary standards clarify those distinctions and reduce the risk of misunderstanding in specifications, manuals, training material and day-to-day collaboration.

What this standard covers

Based on the provided scope, this standard defines terms used in relation to robotics. That means it addresses conceptual terminology, not the design, test methods or safety requirements of a particular robot type. In general technical use, a vocabulary standard like this helps keep terminology consistent across manufacturers, integrators, users and educators, especially where the same word may be used differently in different contexts.

• Provides shared meanings for core robotics terms.
• Distinguishes between mechanical and control-related concepts.
• Supports consistency in technical documents, drawings and training materials.
• Focuses on the vocabulary of robotics as a field, not on a specific robot model.