KUKA to Feature AR, AI and Automated Mobility at Montreal Design & Manufacturing Event

KUKA’s ready2_edcuate mobile training cell using KUKA.SmartBinPicking software and KUKA.MixedReality augmented reality for robots will demonstrate how easy it is to program a robotic smart bin-picking operation. The ready2_educate is a self-contained training cell equipped with a KR 4 AGILUS small industrial robot that streamlines training for schools, universities and company learning centers.

The KUKA KR AGILUS is a 6-axis robot designed for extreme high speed and agility. KUKA.SmartBinPicking software pairs artificial intelligence object recognition with precise robot path planning for high-speed bin picking without crashes or collisions. The operation is easily verified offline using KUKA.MixedReality software that connects the virtual and real worlds in real time to validate robot paths, tools and fault geometry.

The KUKA booth will also feature a second interactive educational demonstration using an LBR iisy cobot. The LBR iisy uses the iiQKA.OS operating system, making it easy to install, configure and program. Tasks can be taught quickly by means of manual guidance, and thanks to the teach pendant KUKA smartPAD pro, any additional programming tasks are as simple as using a smartphone. At the show, the LBR iisy cobot will be mounted in an iiKQA Educational Kit, which includes exercises and a mobile base that is ideal for developing training courses at schools that have limited floor space. The iiKQA Educational Kits can be combined to create mini production lines and teach important factory automation concepts.

Visitors to the KUKA booth will also interact with the latest in HRC technology as a KR AGILUS mounted on a mobile platform and fitted with AIRSKIN^â  simulates an application without protective fences. Available in a variety of configurations for cleanrooms, hygienic and hazardous environments, the KR AGILUS provides the utmost in precision and production in confined spaces. If a person enters the robot’s vicinity the AIRSKIN sensor system reduces the robot’s speed, and should contact occur, the robot is stopped entirely. Upon verification that it’s safe to restart, the robot resumes work at the point in the program where it was interrupted. 

On the automated mobility side, KUKA will present a static exhibit of its solution for transporting demanding loads, the KMP 600-S diffDrive mobile platform automated guided vehicle (AGV). The KMP 600-S diffDrive moves at speeds up to 2 meters per second in all directions of travel and offers up to 600 kg of payload capacity. An integrated lifting device lifts up to 60 mm in under 3 seconds. The vehicle requires no safety fencing, which provides maximum freedom of movement for employees.

When cycle times require high-speed travel, front and rear-mounted laser scanners ensure safe operation in all travel directions. Camera-based 3D object detection enables the KMP 600-S diffDrive to integrate seamlessly into existing production environments and detect obstacles autonomously from 50 mm up to 2.1 m above the ground. Ideally equipped for tough industrial environments, the KMP 600-S diffDrive features an IP 54 design that works reliably even in adverse conditions such as water spray and dust.

Operators can easily set up the KMP 600-S diffDrive with the no-code KUKA.AMR fleet management software, eliminating the need for programming. A manual controller provides quick, easy commissioning. With quick firmware updates and tool-free access to components including rollers, laser scanners and service interfaces, the platform is easy to maintain, inspect, calibrate and repair.

All KUKA automation solutions, including those shown during the Montreal event, are backed by the company’s expert service and support for training, complete system engineering and simulation, readily available spare parts, robot refurbishment and more, all of which are easily accessible through the my.KUKA.com site.