KUKA has expanded its small robotics portfolio with the KR AGILUS ultra, a new product family positioned between the KR AGILUS and KR CYBERTECH nano series, targeting applications that require higher payloads, faster cycles and minimal installation space.
A new generation of small industrial robots
The KR AGILUS ultra is based on a new generation of the established KR AGILUS platform and increases the rated payload to up to 16 kilograms. This places the robot in a segment previously not fully covered by KUKA’s small robot lineup. The design focus is on higher dynamic performance, improved precision and reduced vibration behavior, enabling shorter cycle times and more accurate positioning in high-throughput automation environments.
According to KUKA, the robot’s axes are optimized for faster motion profiles, while mechanical refinements reduce oscillations during acceleration and deceleration. This combination is particularly relevant for handling, loading and unloading, testing and inspection tasks where both speed and repeatability directly influence overall equipment effectiveness.
Compact design for dense automation cells
A defining characteristic of the KR AGILUS ultra is its compact footprint and reduced interference contours. The six-axis robot integrates internal cable and energy routing, which simplifies cell design and allows closer placement of peripheral equipment. This is especially relevant in highly integrated production cells, such as electronics assembly and advanced packaging, where space constraints are critical.
The robot is also positioned as a suitable solution for unloading applications on injection molding machines. In such environments, compact dimensions and unrestricted axis movement are essential to minimize cycle interruptions and avoid collisions.
Full IP67 protection for demanding environments
Unlike earlier generations where only selected axes were protected, the KR AGILUS ultra features full IP67 certification for the entire robot. This means it is resistant to splash water, emulsions and cleaning fluids, expanding its usability in environments with regular washdown or exposure to process media.
This level of protection supports deployment not only in plastics processing, but also in automotive and general industrial settings where robustness and uptime are key requirements.
Controller compatibility and AI readiness
The KR AGILUS ultra is compatible with KUKA’s KR C5 micro controller and the iiQKA.OS2 operating system. This ensures consistency with KUKA’s latest control architecture and simplifies integration into existing automation landscapes. The system also supports the KUKA smartPLUG handheld controller, enabling flexible operation and commissioning.
AI readiness is included as part of the control platform, providing a technical foundation for future software-based extensions, such as data-driven optimization, vision-based inspection or adaptive process control. This positions the robot for use in increasingly software-defined and intelligent production environments.
Positioning within the small robotics portfolio
By introducing the KR AGILUS ultra, KUKA closes a functional gap between its existing small robot families. The new model addresses applications that demand higher payload and performance without moving into larger robot classes, offering manufacturers a more finely graded selection when designing compact, highly automated production systems.
The KR AGILUS ultra is aimed at customers seeking to increase automation density and throughput while maintaining precision and robustness in space-constrained facilities.
