KUKA in 2023: A Year of Innovation and Recognition

In the dynamic landscape of automation, KUKA has once again proven its prowess, earning accolades and making significant strides in 2023. The year has been a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and fostering talent within the industry.

KUKA’s cutting-edge contributions to the manufacturing industry have not gone unnoticed. The company stands tall as a double finalist in the prestigious Electronics Industry and Instrumentation Excellence Awards, a testament to its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological innovation, through its digital tools: KUKA.Sim and iiQoT: Smart simulation software for efficient offline programming of KUKA robots and Data based optimisation, IIoT platform.

But the spotlight has not only been on KUKA’s technological advancements but also on nurturing future talent. KUKA apprentice Richard Pinnell was recognised and shortlisted at the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2023. Hosted by the Express & Star, Richard was a finalist in the Engineering and Manufacturing category, showcasing the company’s dedication to fostering skills and expertise within the next generation of engineers. KUKA embrace apprenticeships as a strategic approach to future-proof operations and cultivate a skilled workforce, ensuring a seamless transfer of knowledge and expertise as our older generation near retirement age, not only addressing the current skills gap but establishing a sustainable pipeline of talent. We are extremely proud of all of our apprentices and the invaluable contributions they make to our business on a daily basis.

KUKA’s continued commitment to collaborative robotics is exemplified by the serial release of the LBR iisy cobot. This innovative and versatile collaborative robot is set to redefine the way industries approach automation, offering a seamless blend of precision and adaptability. Highly versatile and intuitive to operate the LBR iisy is a cobot for all production areas, combining the know-how of industrial automation flexibly and simply, with the speed of a traditional industrial robot.

In addition, the KMP 1500 mobile robot platform takes automation to new heights, providing a mobile and flexible solution for a variety of intralogistics applications. Its release marks a significant milestone in KUKA’s journey towards delivering comprehensive and adaptable automation solutions, complimenting an established portfolio of automation products aimed at process optimisation.

And both technologies combine in the KMR iisy offering a powerful and intelligent mobile cobot solution. With its release, KUKA continues to empower supply chain, warehouse and logistics industries with automation that is not only efficient but also easily integrated into diverse operational environments. The HRC-capable KMR iisy delivers an AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) system that can move quickly and safely.

In a ground breaking leap towards the future, KUKA proudly unveiled its latest innovation – the KUKA Cell AM, a modular additive manufacturing cell designed to redefine precision and efficiency in the world of advanced manufacturing. Precision Redefined: The KUKA Cell AM is engineered to set new standards in additive manufacturing, offering modular capabilities that enhance adaptability and precision. Its state-of-the-art technology empowers industries to achieve unparalleled levels of customisation and flexibility in their manufacturing processes, that meet with ‘on-demand’ principles of today’s modern production environments.

Recognising the growing demand for automated solutions in Ireland, KUKA has expanded its facility in Dundalk. This strategic move is poised to enhance the delivery of automated solutions across the region, solidifying KUKA’s position as a key player in the Irish automation landscape. Automation has increased efficiency and productivity in the Irish manufacturing sector by streamlining production processes and reducing labour costs, whilst laying the foundations for business to upskill and retrain as technologies become ever dominant in manufacturing, contributing to overall competitiveness and economic growth.

KUKA UK also takes steps to reinforce its commitment to pushing the boundaries of welding technology with the appointment of Mike Russell as Chief Technology Officer, Advanced Welding Solutions. Russell’s expertise will undoubtedly contribute to further advancements in welding automation and advanced welding techniques, including friction stir welding and linear friction welding, among others, reinforcing KUKA’s global position as an industry leader.

Amidst these achievements and its ongoing transformations, KUKA remains dedicated to supporting manufacturers across various industries in achieving automation excellence. The company continues to cultivate and expand its system partner network, fostering collaborations that drive innovation and elevate industry standards. Their commitment to innovation and excellence has been instrumental in shaping the success of our collaborative efforts.

As KUKA celebrates these milestones, it not only reflects on its past successes but also looks ahead with a vision for continued innovation, collaboration, and excellence in the ever-evolving world of factory automation.