KUKA AG released a new generation of the KMP 600-S diffDrive, a compact powerhouse mobile robot that meets the highest safety requirements. Expanding KUKA’s portfolio of mobile platforms, the KMP 600-S diffDrive is fast – up to 2m/sec – and equally safe, thanks to laser scanners and 3D object detection.

This collision-free coworker takes intralogistics to a new level – especially in the consumer goods industry.

Mobile solutions must meet extremely high standards for industrial use. The KUKA KMP 600-S diffDrive mobile platform provides a new automated guided vehicle (AGV) system. It features high-speed support for production intralogistics and a payload of up to 600kg. At the same time, the KMP 600-S diffDrive is ideally equipped for the tough everyday environment of industrial production. Its IP54 design always enables it to work reliably even under adverse conditions – including water spray and dust.

Maximum Safety, Maximum Flexibility

All KUKA mobile platforms guarantee employees maximum freedom of movement without the need for safety fencing. The KMP 600-S diffDrive is no exception. Laser scanners mounted at the front and rear of the machine provide maximum safety. They allow for high speeds in all directions of travel when cycle times require it. “Safety is a central concern for us,” said Jakob Brandl, portfolio manager at KUKA. “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.”

Interfaces for Any Requirement

Specifically, adding 3D object detection expands the KMP 600-S diffDrive to detect obstacles from 50mm to 2.10m above the ground. Also, linking the KMP 600-S diffDrive to a wide variety of workstations precisely gets the right load-handling options. For example, it acts as a top-load AGV and lifts pallets or cartons up to 60mm via its integrated lifting device.

KUKA.NavigationSolution for Navigation and Fleet Management

A manual controller starts up the KMP 600-S diffDrive, while program applications are in Java. With an operating time of around 8 hours, the KMP 600-S diffDrive recharges in two hours. Also, KUKA.NavigationSolution monitors an entire fleet. It detects battery charge levels and identifies which vehicles are connected to the WLAN. After initial environment teaching through the SLAM algorithm, the software solution takes over localization in space (on the vehicle itself) as well as vehicle coordination (on a central computer). The fleet manager uses parameters such as distance and speed to determine the best route on the network of paths, thus avoiding all collisions.