Kuka is presenting the first elements of its new operating system iiQKA.OS at the Hannover Messe Digital Edition. It is intended to serve as the basis for an entire ecosystem, provide access to programs, apps, services or accessories and at the same time be easy and intuitive to use. So simple that even non-experts can quickly program a robot.

The new operating system is intended to greatly simplify the use of robots. In view of the fact that only 5% of companies have automation via robots and these are mainly large corporations such as car manufacturers, the move is strategically understandable: The Augsburg-based company wants to make robot-based automation solutions attractive and easy to use for small and medium-sized companies too - from simple applications to highly complex automation tasks.

The iiQKA.OS operating system in detail

The operating system with a web-based user interface is based on a modular, Linux-based software architecture whose modular and container-based components can each be developed and improved independently. This increases the efficiency and speed of development processes by only installing required functions and components. If new requirements are added, these can be added at a later date. The company cites stable and consistent application programming interfaces (APIs) and decentralized data mirroring, which ensures data consistency regardless of which device the user is working on, as further advantages of the modular and open software architecture.

The modularity also makes it possible to provide software updates and upgrades more quickly. This means that the operating system, which is primarily adapted to robot systems, can be expanded quickly. Kuka has implemented a feedback system in order to be able to react quickly to user requirements. The feedback in turn flows into the further development of robot software, hardware and services.

The iiQKA ecosystem

Around the operating system, Kuka is creating its own ecosystem of global partners, i.e. third-party providers, consisting of automation and robotics experts, software and process developers and other partners. This network will offer users intelligent applications, extended functions and digital services.

This ecosystem provides users with components such as grippers, safety sensors, optical vision systems and automation software. The first partners, known as keystone partners, are Schunk, Sick and Roboception. This network will be successively expanded.

The three pillars of the ecosystem

The aim of Kuka's iiQKA is also to enable users to develop their own solutions or enhance existing applications. The ecosystem therefore focuses on three key components: intuitive self-help, simple system expandability and clear and consistent governance.

Intuitive self-help is available to the user throughout the entire customer journey, i.e. from the first steps into the world of robotics to the end of the robot's life cycle. If the user encounters limits or obstacles, they are given access to appropriate training via the ecosystem.

Additional software and hardware can be connected via the operating system's open interfaces. This makes it easy to expand the system.

The ecosystem uses a governance model to provide all participants with a clear procedure for actively participating and contributing to value creation. At the same time, according to the company, this ensures that users are protected.

First application and outlook

The Cobot LBR iisy ushers in a new era of automation at Kuka.

© Kuka

The LBR iisy will be the first sensitive cobot to run exclusively on the new operating system in combination with the KR C5 micro robot controller and the smartPAD pro operating unit. The company's aim is to make it easier for newcomers to robotics and to further develop the existing customer base. In the coming years, every Kuka product will be equipped with the new iiQKA.OS operating system.

You can see a first application example in the video.