KUKA Archives - Used Robots

ROBOTIC INNOVATION IN MEDICINE: KUKA UNVEILS COBOTS AT AAOS 2025

At the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2025, KUKA, a global leader in robotic solutions, will present its innovative cobots (collaborative robots) specifically designed for medical applications. This exhibition promises to revolutionize the field of orthopedics by offering advanced technological tools that improve precision, efficiency, and safety in surgical procedures.
Technological Advances for More Precise Surgery KUKA’s cobots stand out for their ability to work safely and effectively alongside medical professionals. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and artificial intelligence software, these robots can assist in complex and delicate tasks, reducing the margin of error and optimizing operation times.
One of the key strengths of cobots is their flexibility. Thanks to their modular design and intuitive programming, they can adapt to a wide variety of surgical procedures. This allows surgeons to perform more precise and personalized interventions, thereby improving clinical outcomes and patient recovery.
Innovative KUKA Equipment At AAOS 2025, KUKA will present several innovative pieces of equipment:
LBR iisy Cobot: This cobot is designed to reduce work-related injuries for ultrasound and sonography technicians. Equipped with a Haply Inverse3 haptic feedback device and an OptoForce FT sensor, the LBR iisy can apply the appropriate amount of force during examinations, preventing unnecessary pressure and strain on technicians’ arms and shoulders.
LBR MED 14 R820 Cobot: This cobot will be used in a robotic development kit to reduce the development time of unique medical device solutions. Equipped with optical cameras and trackers from Northern Digital, Inc. (NDI), the LBR MED can assist in inserting brain biopsy needles, dynamically adjusting for safe and precise operation.
Haptic Feedback and OptoForce FT Sensor: These devices allow the cobot to apply the correct amount of force during procedures, providing tactile feedback that helps technicians avoid unnecessary pressure and strain.
Benefits for Patients and Professionals Implementing cobots in the medical field provides technical advantages and significant benefits for patients and healthcare professionals. On one hand, patients benefit from less invasive surgeries, shorter recovery times, and lower risks of complications. On the other hand, healthcare professionals have a tool that reduces their workload, alleviating the physical and mental strain associated with prolonged and repetitive procedures.
Furthermore, cobots’ ability to perform repetitive and precise tasks with high reliability frees surgeons to focus on critical aspects of the intervention, elevating the standard of medical care.

Collaboration and the Future of Medical Robotics KUKA focuses on developing cutting-edge technology and collaborating with medical and academic institutions to refine its robotic solutions. At AAOS 2025, the company aims to showcase its advancements and create strategic alliances to enhance the future of medical robotics.

KUKA’s commitment to innovation and quality has been a key factor in its market leadership. To improve patients’ lives and the efficiency of medical procedures, the company continues to invest in research and development, consolidating its position as a pioneer in collaborative robotics.

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INNOVATION AND EFFICIENCY: KUKA’S NEW KR FORTEC PALLETISING ROBOTS REVOLUTIONISE HEAVY-DUTY AUTOMATION

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KUKA, one of the leading brands in industrial robotics, has launched its new family of palletizing robots: KR FORTEC PA and KR FORTEC ultra PA. These robots, designed for heavy load palletizing tasks, represent a significant advancement in industrial automation, combining power, speed, and efficiency in a modular solution that promises to optimize both production and operational costs. Powerful and Fast Robots for Heavy Loads The KR FORTEC PA and KR FORTEC ultra PA palletizing robots stand out for their ability to handle loads of up to 500 kg and 800 kg, respectively, making them ideal options for sectors that require high load capacity and superior performance. With a sleek design and modular structure, these robots not only offer great maneuverability and precision in palletizing but are also designed to operate with low maintenance costs. The KR FORTEC PA, in particular, excels in performing high-demand palletizing tasks, from stacking small cans to handling 200-liter drums. Thanks to its high payload and energy efficiency, this robot not only optimizes cycle time but also reduces the total cost of ownership (TCO), a key factor for companies seeking to maximize their investments in automation. A Modular Solution for Cost Reduction The modular feature of the new KR FORTEC range allows these robots to be easily adapted to different production environments. This also translates into a significant reduction in spare parts storage costs, as parts from the KR FORTEC, KR QUANTEC, and KR FORTEC ultra models are interchangeable. This compatibility simplifies spare parts management, which is a considerable advantage for maintenance and logistics departments. Additionally, both the KR FORTEC PA and KR FORTEC ultra PA can be combined with configurable linear units, extending their operational reach. The KR FORTEC PA can be mounted on the KL 4000, while the KR FORTEC ultra PA can be integrated into the KL 5000, extending its work range up to 31 meters. This flexibility allows for greater customization according to the specific needs of each customer, improving operational efficiency and increasing performance in large-scale palletizing applications. A Perfect Solution for Diverse Sectors The KR FORTEC ultra PA is especially useful in sectors that require handling extremely heavy loads. Its load capacity of up to 800 kg makes it ideal for tasks such as palletizing stones in the construction industry or handling large bottles in beverage production lines. Its double swing arm not only provides greater rigidity but also improves movement precision, allowing for complex tasks to be performed with higher accuracy and stability. The Future of Palletizing: Flexibility, Efficiency, and Low Operating Costs The KR FORTEC PA and KR FORTEC ultra PA series from KUKA redefine what palletizing robots can do in terms of payload, speed, and adaptability to different applications. With impressive load capacity, modular design, and the possibility of integrating into larger automation systems, these robots are a strategic investment for companies looking not only to optimize their processes but also to reduce their long-term operational costs.
KUKA’s KR FORTEC robots not only meet the highest standards in terms of performance and load capacity but also offer a flexible and cost-effective solution for automating palletizing processes in a wide range of industries.

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DIGITISED ROBOTIC CELLS: THE FUTURE OF INDUSTRY 4.0 IN ACTION

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Industry 4.0 is redefining the boundaries of modern manufacturing, and one of its fundamental pillars is advanced robotics. With the introduction of digitized robotic cells, manufacturers are transforming their processes to achieve greater flexibility, efficiency, and productivity. Iconic brands like KUKA, FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, and Kawasaki are leading this transformation by integrating advanced solutions in digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital twins. But how is this new era of robotics impacting factories and the industry in general?

The Convergence of Robotics and Industry 4.0
Digitalization 4.0 has opened up a range of opportunities for robotic cells. These cells, which previously operated in isolation, are now connected to a network of intelligent systems that allow for more efficient management of operations. Through cloud-based platforms and IoT, robots can exchange data in real-time, access remote diagnostics, and perform predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and optimizing production processes.

The adoption of artificial intelligence and the analysis of large volumes of data allow robots to not only be smarter but also more autonomous, capable of adapting to changing conditions and performing complex tasks without human intervention.

KUKA: Innovation in Connectivity and Digital Simulation
KUKA, one of the giants in industrial robotics, has implemented cutting-edge technologies such as the KUKA Sunrise.OS system and the KUKA Connect platform to facilitate the programming, control, and monitoring of its robots. The former, an advanced operating system, allows for intuitive and flexible programming, while the latter, cloud-based, connects robots to a global network for real-time data access. This connectivity facilitates predictive maintenance and improves factory resource management, optimizing production.

Additionally, the integration of digital twins allows KUKA to simulate and optimize production processes before physically implementing them, reducing risks and improving operational efficiency.

FANUC: Pioneers in IoT and Predictive Maintenance
FANUC, another key player in industrial robotics, has adopted the concepts of FANUC FIELD and ROBOTICS+, IoT-based platforms that offer advanced data analysis and predictive maintenance capabilities. These solutions allow operators to manage and monitor robots from anywhere in the world, ensuring performance remains at optimal levels.

The Arc Mate 100iD robots, primarily used for welding applications, are a clear example of how FANUC has integrated Digitalization 4.0 into its robotic cells. Equipped with advanced sensors, these robots can make real-time adjustments to their welding paths, improving the precision and quality of the final product.

ABB: Connectivity and Simulation for Production Optimization
Swiss giant ABB has launched ABB Ability, an industrial IoT platform that connects its robots, controllers, and other machinery to a digitized network for real-time data monitoring. This platform not only facilitates data collection but also allows for robot diagnostics and failure prediction before they occur.

The IRB 6700, one of ABB’s most robust robots, exemplifies how the brand is incorporating advanced digital technologies into its robotic cells. Through ABB Ability, users can access real-time operational data, improving process efficiency and ensuring consistent product quality.

Yaskawa Motoman: Flexibility and Collaboration in Production
Yaskawa Motoman has implemented collaborative robotics solutions with the MOTOMAN HC10, a robot designed to work safely and efficiently alongside humans. Equipped with advanced sensors, this robot can adapt to its work environment, making it an ideal option for assembly, handling, and packaging tasks. Additionally, through its Yaskawa Fleet Manager platform, users can manage multiple robots in the plant, optimizing resource use and increasing productivity.

Moreover, the integration of predictive maintenance through IoT platforms has allowed Yaskawa Motoman to reduce unexpected downtime, improving operational profitability.

Kawasaki Robotics: Collaborative Robotics and Digital Twins
Kawasaki Robotics is also adopting advanced Industry 4.0 technologies, standing out for its implementation of IoT and digital twins. The RS007N, a compact robot, is a clear example of how the brand is digitizing its processes. Equipped with intelligent sensors and its own IoT platform, it allows for real-time data collection to optimize assembly and material handling processes.

Like other brands, Kawasaki uses digital twins to simulate the behavior of its robots in virtual environments before making changes in the real world, allowing for adjustments without interrupting production.

The Future of Robotics: More Connected, Smarter, More Efficient
The future of robotic cells is promising. The integration of advanced technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, digital simulation, and digital twins is making robots increasingly autonomous, flexible, and efficient. Brands like KUKA, FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, and Kawasaki are leading this change, offering advanced robotics solutions that enable companies to improve their competitiveness and reduce costs.

Digitalization 4.0 is not only changing how robots interact with humans and machines but is also transforming the global manufacturing landscape. As factories become smarter and more connected environments, the benefits of digitized robotics become increasingly evident, enabling faster, more flexible, and sustainable production.

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