AR Software Enhances Robotics Error Detection, Automation Integration in Shops

KUKA Robotics Corp. has launched its new Kuka.MixedReality software that enables users to visualize the environment of robot cells live on their smartphones to support fast, safe and intuitive robot startups. The free mobile app displays tools and interference geometries for early detection of potential hazards that can then be eliminated before a robot starts to work.

In general, Kuka.MixedReality would be useful for any moldmaking shop that is thinking of applying robotic automation to its processes — whether that is robotic machining systems used for tasks such as trimming, finishing and polishing mold components or robots for material handling, such as moving part through the moldmaking process. Importantly, the MixedReality software enables shops to more easily integrate robot automation, especially those that are hesitant to do so.

Augmented reality (AR) enables intuitive robot startup assistance capability, connecting the real and virtual worlds to enrich the environment of robotic cells with clear, uncomplicated digital information. By quickly detecting and correcting errors, facilities can accelerate installation and boost safety.

The Kuka.MixedReality Assistant app graphically displays all relevant variables directly for the robot in real time, including Cartesian or violated monitoring spaces, safety-oriented tools and tool spheres. Users can also view the corresponding configuration parameters of the spaces or tools.

Kuka.MixedReality is easy to set up and operate. Users simply install the Kuka.MixedReality Assistant on their smartphone or tablet via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. All relevant information about the robot transmits directly to the mobile end device via WLAN through a router or access point — not a KUKA product — and displays visually on the mobile device. AR headsets or additional hardware are not required, and a Kuka.MixedReality Safe technology package installs in the robot controller as a data source, along with one of the Kuka.SafeOperation technology packages.