KUKA introduces three innovative technologies at the International
Manufacturing Technology Show 2008
CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich., Sept. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- KUKA Robotics Corp. is
blazing a trail for the welding sector by making three innovative product
introductions in North America -- the KR 5 arc, a versatile and highly dynamic
lightweight robot, the KR 5 arc HW (Hollow Wrist) and the PosiFlex positioner
at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2008 from Sept. 8-13
at McCormick Place in Chicago, booth B-6000.
KR 5 arc -- functionally flexible
Thanks to its compact dimensions, the KR 5 arc takes up very little space
and can be integrated into virtually any cell concept. Whether mounted on the
floor or inverted on the ceiling, the KR 5 arc performs its tasks quickly and
efficiently with high continuous-path accuracy, and boasts a working envelope
of over 1400 mm. Its modular design makes it a cost-effective solution. For
example, it uses the same slim wrist as its big brother, the KR 6. The flange
and interfaces for mounting the wire feeder are also identical.
With a payload of 5 kg and a supplementary load of 12 kg, the KR 5 arc is
extremely flexible. It is also available with absolutely accurate calibration.
With the service-proven KUKA KR C2 controller, all the usual controller
expansions are possible. This allows the control of external axes and, with
the KUKA Safe Robot und KUKA RoboTeam technologies, it can become a team
player and work together with humans and other robots.
KR 5 arc HW
KUKA Robotics is also unveiling the KR 5 arc HW (Hollow Wrist), a robot
developed specially for the arc welding sector. This new robot type offers
several features that put it in a class of its own. For example, it has a
fluid supply system which is integrated in the arm.
This protected routing of the dress package allows infinite rotation of
axis 6 without the need to reorient the robot wrist during the work cycle. For
the user, this means not only improved component accessibility and optimal
protection of the dress package, but also simplified offline programming. The
torch connection hose pack of the KR 5 arc HW can be separated from the wire
feeder and the rotary interface. Due to the use of standard plug-in
connections, it can be fitted with all available welding equipment types. And
just like any true welder, the latest member of the KUKA robot family isn't
troubled by tough working conditions. On the contrary: with a protection
rating of IP 54, the KR 5 arc HW is in its element.
Worry-free maintenance
Both the KR 5 HW and the KR 5 arc are available with absolutely accurate
calibration and team capability. The two KUKA newcomers are also equally rapid
and precise in their operation. With a weight of only 120 kg, both robots are
more dynamic than most of their competitors. And when it comes to maintenance,
the new KUKA robots have the edge here too. An oil change can be carried out
without difficulty on all axes -- and is only necessary every 20,000 hours.
KUKA PosiFlex
KUKA is also introducing Posiflex, its highly dynamic automated multi-axis
positioning system that can be combined with flexible robots to achieve
optimal workpiece positioning and accessibility and rapid process speeds.
Combining the KUKA robots and Posiflex series of positioners creates ideal
automation modules for cost-effective production for arc welding, spot
welding, laser welding, plasma welding or bonding/sealing. The KUKA Posiflex
is more cost effective since it is a modular system.
The KUKA Posiflex offers improved freedom, flexibility and speed. It is
more dynamic, offering high rotational speeds and accelerations in the main
and planetary axes. This helps keep non-productive time down to a minimum.
It offers very high positioning accuracy and is more reliable due to its
integrated and protected energy supply systems. The Posiflex also features a
simpler design with plug and play control via the robot controller. Posiflex
is based on standard modules which can be combined in accordance with
individual requirements, resulting in a wide range of different types for the
most diverse kinematics and sizes. Flexible distances between the planetary
axes minimize the interference contours arising from the workpiece or the
fixture. The new positioner allows improved flexibility in the distance
between the face plates which makes it easier to react to individual workpiece
or fixture requirements. In addition, the positioner axes are controlled as
external robot axes, thereby allowing mathematically coupled motion with the
robot-guided tool.
KUKA Robotics Corporation
KUKA Robotics Corporation, with its parent company KUKA Roboter GmbH,
Augsburg, Germany, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial
robots, with an installed base of over 75,000 units. The company's robots
range from 5kg to 1000kg payloads, and 635mm to 4000mm reach, all controlled
from a common PC based controller platform. KUKA robots are utilized in a
diverse range of industries including the appliance, automotive, aerospace,
consumer goods, logistics, food, pharmaceutical, medical, foundry and plastics
industries and in multiple applications including material handling, machine
loading, assembly, packaging, palletizing, welding, bending, joining, and
surface finishing. For more information contact KUKA Robotics at 866-873-5852
or visit their website at www.kukarobotics.com.
About the KUKA Robot Group
KUKA Roboter GmbH, Augsburg, is a member of the KUKA Aktiengesellschaft
and ranks among the world's leading suppliers of industrial robots. Core
competencies are the development, production and sale of industrial robots,
controllers, software and linear units. The company is the market leader in
Germany and Europe, and the number three in the world. The KUKA Robot Group
employs about 2,000 people worldwide. Of these, 1,200 are employed in Germany,
either at the KUKA Robot Group headquarters in Augsburg, or at various
subsidiaries. In 2007, sales totaled 413 million euro. 25 subsidiaries provide
a presence in the major markets of Europe, America and Asia.
SOURCE KUKA Robotics Corporation
James Cooper, KUKA Robotics Corporation, +1-586-738-5486,
JamesCooper@KUKARobotics.com; or Jurgen Schulze-Ferebee, Head of Corporate
Communications, KUKA Roboter GmbH, +49 821 4533 3473,
juergenschulze@kuka-roboter.de
