Mixed Reality Showroom for KUKA Robotics

The challenge: To demonstrate the high technical complexity of a real cobot in a dynamic trade fair environment

KUKA faced the challenge of showcasing its new sensitive cobot, the LBR iiwa, at trade fairs and industry events. Although the actual machine was physically on display at the stand, conveying its full technical potential was no easy task. The cobot features a wealth of complex technical data (torque sensors, redundant axes, safety metrics and inertia values, etc.) that is difficult to appreciate at a glance whilst the robot is stationary or performing basic demonstrations.

For a leading company such as KUKA, it was vital that potential customers could grasp the real benefits of the product, such as the optimisation of assembly processes or cycle times, within a few minutes. The challenge lay in linking the physical machine on display at the stand with an informative and engaging experience that would reinforce the brand’s image as an innovator without overwhelming visitors with traditional technical documentation.

KUKA

A world leader in the manufacture of industrial robots and automated solutions, with over 100 years of experience and innovation in the sector.

Industry

showroom realidad mixta kuka presentacion

The solution: An interactive showroom using Mixed Reality

XR Showroom

We designed and developed a Mixed Reality showroom using the Microsoft HoloLens smart device, which integrates directly with the actual LBR iiwa robot on display at the trade fair. When viewing the physical machine through the headset, visitors see a superimposition of explanatory 3D virtual elements: acronyms explained through animation, dimensional annotations, 7-axis graphs, virtual safety cages and real-time force meters.

In addition to the holographic data layer, the solution incorporates an interactive module through which the user interacts with the actual machine itself. Using simple gestures or touch-guided commands (such as giving it a ‘high five’ or moving its axes), the operator can see how the real robot detects pressure via its sensors, instantly reduces its speed to ensure safety, and learns new work paths in a responsive and collaborative manner.

+45%

Time spent at the stand

Clarity in technical communication

+60%

Interaction at the trade fair

Recreación digital del cobot de Kuka para un showroom en ferias

Display of 3D graphics, dimensions, text and effects that explain the components of the robot on display at the stand
Projection of virtual cages, mechanical guards and area markings around the machine to demonstrate safety regulations
A step-by-step animation of the specifications, to provide a visual explanation
Manual guidance and gesture tests in which the physical machine reacts to touch and memorises trajectories.

Key findings

The use of the Mixed Reality showroom on the actual machine cemented KUKA’s position as the undisputed technological leader at industry trade fairs. The combination of the physical robot with holographic information enabled the sales team to deliver much more dynamic, clear and compelling explanations, capturing the attention of high-potential decision-makers.

The project not only boosted engagement at the stand, but also resolved the long-standing challenge of explaining complex concepts such as kinematic redundancy and sensitive collision detection. Attendees experienced first-hand the tangible benefits of the LBR iiwa, streamlining the sales process and increasing commercial interest following the trade fair.