The key lies in simple operation and intuitive handling of automation solutions, which until now have often only been available to experts. "Our mission for 2030 is to make automation simpler, more intuitive and therefore available to everyone. This will lower the barrier to entry. Programming a robot will then be as easy as working on a PC today," says Peter Mohnen, CEO of Kuka. This is why Kuka is presenting a preview of its operating system of the future at the digital Hannover Messe.

Prototypes have already been in use at various customers since the end of 2020. This is less about the product "robot" alone, but rather about its use and possible applications. Automation will find its way into more and more areas in the coming years. According to Mohnen, the increasing breadth of applications can be seen in other industries: "After the coronavirus pandemic, there will be a real push towards more automation, particularly in logistics and the healthcare sector, which will be very noticeable in the medium term."

Digitally networked solution systems

Software is more decisive than ever: the real added value no longer lies in a single product, but in digitally networked solution systems. Kuka offers the entire range from robotic components to large, complex networked systems. This requires an operating system that offers access to an entire ecosystem of programs or apps, services and accessories.

In the long term, every Kuka product will be equipped with the new operating system. The company is also focusing on the benefits for its existing customers, who work with classic Kuka systems worldwide.

Automation as the winner of the pandemic crisis?

The coronavirus pandemic has changed supply chains, everyday working life and production processes. New technologies are helping the industry to adapt to this change in the long term. These include automation, robotics and digitalization. They are important elements for a robust and resilient industry. "Hannover Messe is an important source of inspiration for the time after the coronavirus pandemic. Robotics and automation are of central importance here, as are digital concepts. Kuka is a pioneer in industrial automation and, as a digital format, Hannover Messe also offers us the right platform for products, solutions and innovations relating to the digitalized and sustainable production of the future," says Wilfried Eberhardt, Chief Marketing Officer at Kuka.

With this year's partner country Indonesia, the Hannover Messe is focusing on a region that is developing very dynamically, particularly in the field of automation. For example, Kuka subsidiary Swisslog has already implemented several logistics projects for the Asian e-commerce giant Lazada.