Kuka Unveils New Autonomous, Intralogistics Robot

Robot manufacturer, Kuka, has launched a new autonomous mobile robot designed for intralogistics. 

Described by the company as a “compact powerhouse [that] meets the highest safety requirements,” the new KMP 600-S design features 3D object detection, laser scanners, a payload of 1,322 pounds and an automated guided vehicle system.

The “collision-free coworker” has been designed to work alongside logistics workers, particularly in the consumer goods industry, without the need for safety fencing. 

“Safety is a central concern for us,” said Jakob Brandl, KUKA’s portfolio manager. “That’s why the KMP 600-S diffDrive uses eight safety zones at both the front and rear – customizable for vehicle speeds and specific applications.”

The robot’s 3D object detection feature allows it to identify obstacles from between just under 2 inches to 78 inches above the ground. The new design can also be added to a wide variety of workstations across a factory floor and is controlled by the company’s navigation platform the Kuka.NavigationSolution. This platform can control an entire fleet of the mobile robots to avoid collisions, using the laser scanners and wheel sensors to create a virtual map of the environment.