User-friendly robots are opening up opportunities for man/machine partnerships in different sectors.
For many years the automotive industry has been known for its extensive use of industrial robotics. However, there are many opportunities in other industries…
As per the 2014 World Robot Statistics, by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the density of robots in the automotive sector is seven times greater than in all other industrial areas. For example, the Japanese automotive industry has 1,520 industrial robots per 10,000 employees. The equivalent number in all other industries is merely 214 units.
Relying heavily on lightweight robotics and man/machine collaboration, Kuka Robotics has developed a new kind of robot that can be programmed swiftly.
The KUKA lightweight robot (LWR) can learn new programs by physically pushing it from one point to another by a human hand.
The KUKA LWR is the winner of the euRobotics Technology Transfer Award. This robot is able to support humans as an intelligent helper by providing high-quality work. LWR is a safe working partner and features a rounded shape containing no sharp edges, making it safe for a human to work beside.
Weighing in at only 14 kilograms and lifting as much, the KUKA LWR uses seven axes to become as flexible as its human programmer.
