Kinova: From self-made robotic arms to professional service robotics

Kinova’s highly flexible and lightweight robotic arms are the highest quality in robotics. They have been designed to resemble a human arm. For companies, the robots can be used in the manufacturing sectors and in scientific research facilities. The robotics solutions include portable and particularly energy-efficient robot arms with six or seven degrees of freedom (DoFs) and matching accessories: actuators, control units, control pads and hubs for USB, micro USB, HDMI or Ethernet cables.

Versatile assistant: The Kinova Gen2 robotic arm

The Kinova Gen2 robotic arm is available in three different versions with a black design. The KR LG2 0001 model has six degrees of freedom, allowing movements along six different axes. The KR LG2 0002 model features a ball joint that is similar to a human wrist. With its seven DoFs, the KR LG2 0003 model can easily perform demanding gripping maneuvers that go beyond conventional movement patterns. The multiple joints allow the adaptable Gen2 robot to manipulate objects in a three-dimensional workspace.

With their ultra-light weight of 4.4 kg and low power consumption, they can be used flexibly. When mounted on a mobile base, they can even move around their work area without gaps.

Technical features:

Load capacity of up to 2.6 kg
Reach of 985mm
Software integration through ROS or Kinova Kortex™ API software

Exciting for education and research: The Kinova Gen3 robotic arm

The Kinova Gen3, with a white finish, is also available in three variants. One of them is the particularly inexpensive Lite version, which is suitable for beginners. reichelt offers the models in different kits in combination with suitable accessories. Gen3 integrates seamlessly with other technologies via the Kinova Kortex™ API software. The Kinova Cortex Web App allows for use on desktop and mobile devices.

Less is more

The lite version – the KR L31 0006, with its lower price, offers an ideal entry-level opportunity for professional robotics. The user can get started immediately with Plug & Play and the starter kit. This model is particularly suitable for use in universities and colleges.

Technical features:

Load capacity of 0.5 kg
6 DoFs
transparent actuators with embedded controls
High-level as well as low-level usability
1 kHz low level closed loop control

All-rounder with a talent for languages

The KR L53 0006 with six DoFs and the KR 53 0007 with seven DoFs are ready for use within 30 minutes and can even withstand temperatures down to -30 °C. Users can control the two models using individually adjustable programming languages and preferred tools. They are ideal for scenarios where mobility is particularly important. The reasons for this are the integrated controller, the unrestricted rotation of all joints, the small space requirement and weight and the low power consumption.

Technical features:

Load capacity of 2kg
MATLAB package for hardware integration
Software integration through ROS or Kinova Kortex™ API software
advanced programming in C++ and Python
Simulations in gazebo and movelt environment
2D/3D image processing module as an option

One more arm in industrial automation: Kinova Link 6

With the Link 6 industrial robotic arm, a quick start to production is guaranteed. It has an extensive interface and power and data supply on the wrist. In addition, it can be retrofitted with a Gigabit Ethernet adapter and a display. By selecting the appropriate end effector and creating a new sequence, the first automation jobs can be carried out right away. Areas of application: assembly, quality control, packaging, operation of other machines, etc.

Technical features: