“That was an absolute blast!”, reported the trade fair visitors who had a chance to enjoy the fun factory at the KUKA stand. No wonder, then, that the two six-axis Robocoasters were the center of attention in Hall 17. Anticipating that the demand would be heavy, KUKA installed a third Robocoaster system in Hall 15. And for everyone who still did not get a chance to take a ride on one of the robots, there’s no need to despair: the Robocoaster will also be appearing at many local fun fairs.
The Robocoaster can seat two passengers at one time, who can choose from a wide range of ride profiles and speeds. No matter whether the program is gentle or extreme, this ride is not for the timid. The Robocoaster is the first robot worldwide to be approved for carrying human passengers; that it has passed all of the necessary safety inspections goes without saying.
The Robocoaster is based on the “heavyweight champion” KR 500. It was with this robot that KUKA led the way into the 500 kg payload category, at the same time opening up new perspectives for implementing robots. With regard to industrial applications which previously required expensive, customer-specific dedicated solutions, the KR 500 represents a less expensive alternative.
But the Robocoaster was not the only demonstration of KUKA’s creativity and expertise. Appearing on a large-screen display were artistically transfigured images of robots carrying out various operations, creating a tie-in to the diverse potential uses for KUKA robots.
Information about the corresponding products and services was available on 20 communication terminals. The subject areas included robotic system solutions, new software products, simulation programs, and development projects. Visitors could also use the terminals to peek in on twelve additional trade fair stands at Hanover presented by KUKA’s partner companies. These integrated robotic applications are just a few examples of the broad spectrum of possible uses. On request, KUKA put the prospective customer in touch with the appropriate systems partner right there at the fair. KUKA also used the terminals to show videos of further applications covering all branches of industry and technology.
At factory automation KUKA Roboter GmbH demonstrated yet again its technological leadership and innovative drive. Customer interest in new products from Augsburg is high, as evidenced by the market success of the standard and shelf-mounted robots introduced last year, as well as the resounding response to the KR 180 PA palletizing robot unveiled at the same time.
KUKA Roboter GmbH is an IWKA Group company and ranks among the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial robots. The company’s core competencies are the development, production and sale of industrial robots, controllers, software and linear units. In 2001, the company achieved total sales of more than 250 million euro, with an output in excess of 7,300 robots.