KUKA KMR iiwa

Name: KUKA KMR iiwa
Brand: KUKA KMR iiwa

Autonomous mobile platform with a lightweight collaborative robot arm

hardwareRobotics Kitscollaborativemobileautonomous

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Our Verdict

Best for

Engineers designing mobile, human‑collaborative automation with light payloads

Skip if

You require heavy payloads or a low‑cost fixed cobot

What is KUKA KMR iiwa?

The KUKA KMR iiwa combines a self‑driving mobile base with the LBR iiwa collaborative arm, delivering a flexible solution for dynamic manufacturing and research environments. Its safety‑first design lets it operate alongside humans without cages, while its modular architecture supports easy integration of sensors and tools. Designed for Industry 4.0, the system can be programmed via ROS, KUKA's Sunrise.OS, or standard PLC interfaces, enabling rapid deployment of pick‑and‑place, inspection, and material‑handling tasks in changing workspaces.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

weight150 kg (including battery)

warranty2 years

dimensions1.2 x 0.8 x 1.5 m (base) + arm reach 0.9 m

open source❌ No

connectivityWi‑Fi 6, Ethernet, Bluetooth 5.0, USB‑C

Key Features of KUKA KMR iiwa

The KMR base uses laser SLAM and dynamic obstacle avoidance to navigate unstructured factory floors.

The LBR iiwa arm provides 7‑axis torque‑controlled motion with a payload of up to 7 kg.

Integrated force‑torque sensors enable safe collaborative operation and delicate part handling.

A plug‑and‑play payload interface allows quick swapping of end‑effectors such as grippers, welders, or cameras.

Native support for ROS 2 and KUKA Sunrise.OS simplifies software development and system integration.

Battery operation provides up to 8 hours of continuous work without external power.

Built‑in safety standards (ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066) allow cage‑free deployment alongside human workers.

Real‑time data streaming over Ethernet and Wi‑Fi enables remote monitoring and fleet management.

Use Cases for KUKA KMR iiwa

Dynamic Assembly Lines

Transport parts and perform assembly tasks on moving workstations without re‑programming.

Automated Inspection

Navigate to workpieces and use vision sensors for quality checks.

Research and Prototyping

Provide a flexible platform for labs to test new algorithms and end‑effectors.

Material Handling

Carry loads between stations while autonomously avoiding obstacles.

Pros & Cons of KUKA KMR iiwa

Pros

High flexibility thanks to mobile base and collaborative arm
Safety features enable human‑robot collaboration without cages
Extensive software ecosystem with ROS and KUKA APIs
Battery operation supports untethered work

Cons

High upfront cost compared to fixed cobots
Complex integration may require specialist engineering
Limited payload (7 kg) restricts heavy‑duty applications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum payload of the KMR iiwa?

The LBR iiwa arm can handle up to 7 kg, while the mobile base can carry additional payloads up to 30 kg.

Can the robot operate without a safety cage?

Yes, it meets ISO/TS 15066 standards for collaborative operation and includes force‑torque and proximity sensors for safe human interaction.

Which programming environments are supported?

KMR iiwa supports KUKA Sunrise.OS, ROS 2, and standard PLC interfaces, allowing both high‑level and low‑level control.

How long does the battery last on a full charge?

The onboard lithium‑ion battery provides approximately 8 hours of continuous operation under typical load conditions.

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