KUKA

Democratizing Knowledge with an Innovative Virtual Assistant Using AWS with Empolis

Empolis · AWS

Empolis developed a generative AI virtual assistant using Amazon Bedrock to improve access to product information and operational documents. The assistant supports customer support centers and frontline operators by providing chat-based query access to millions of documents. Integration with Empolis knowledge graph enhances information search and synthesis capabilities.

AgenticProduction

KUKA Optimizes Manufacturing Processes with AI-Driven Automation

KUKA · Workflow orchestration · Microsoft

KUKA, a prominent manufacturer in industrial automation, has modernized its production operations by integrating AI-driven software solutions leveraging Microsoft AI technologies. The company faced the challenge of harmonizing complex mechanical systems with assorted software platforms, resulting in isolated solutions and significant manual effort. The initiative focused on automating critical processes, reducing dependency on siloed solutions, and building a more efficient digital infrastructure. By deploying software automation layered with Microsoft AI, KUKA achieved improved synchronization across production facility components. This led to streamlined planning, implementation, and ongoing operation of manufacturing lines. The transformation reduced manual operations, bridged previously disconnected systems, and paved the way toward a highly automated, data-driven production environment. KUKA's case highlights the role of modern AI in achieving scalable automation and efficiency in advanced manufacturing.

KUKA and Schneider Electric accelerate industrial transformation with AI-enhanced manufacturing

KUKA · Energy operations automation · Microsoft

This use case highlights how KUKA and Schneider Electric transformed manufacturing operations by leveraging advanced Microsoft technologies. At Hannover Messe 2024, they showcased real-world implementations of AI, IoT, and cloud technologies across the factory value chain—from accelerating robot programming to unifying IT and OT data. By employing solutions such as Azure OpenAI Service, Microsoft Fabric, Copilot, and Microsoft Cloud for Manufacturing, they improved quality, resource optimization, employee enablement, and sustainability across manufacturing functions. Multiple partners, including Hexagon, NVIDIA, PTC, and Rockwell Automation, collaborated to deliver intelligent, resilient, and sustainable operations. The demonstration included customer showcases such as BMW Group and addressed pressing manufacturing challenges, including rapid product development, issue resolution, and supply chain resilience. Innovations included new Copilot tools for factory operations, Dynamics 365 Field Service enhancements, and next-gen analytics in Fabric. The initiative demonstrated reduced development cycles, improved technician workflows, and smarter, data-driven decision making. This enabled factories to accelerate programming of industrial robots, apply AI-driven analytics for proactive maintenance, and optimize end-to-end operations. Enhanced employee productivity was achieved through AI-augmented tools like Copilot and Power Platform, extending benefits across HR, field service, and production. Sustainability was also addressed with Microsoft Sustainability Manager, helping organizations monitor and reduce environmental impacts through data and AI-driven insights. Over 130,000 attendees at Hannover Messe experienced nearly 40 live demos and presentations on these AI-powered manufacturing solutions. The showcase illustrated the power of collaboration among manufacturers, technology partners, and Microsoft, making a strong case for AI as a key enabler of industrial transformation.

Production

KUKA Enhances Robotics Programming with Azure OpenAI-Powered iiQWorks.Copilot

KUKA · Coding assistants · Microsoft

KUKA wanted to reduce the complexity and time required for programming their robots to address a growing skills gap and accelerate project timelines. The iiQWorks.Copilot, built with Microsoft Azure OpenAI in Foundry Models and Azure AI Search, uses natural language to generate code and simulate robot workflows, supporting a broader range of users. The assistant is integrated into KUKA's iiQWorks simulation platform and runs in KUKA's own environment to help protect data and intellectual property.

AgenticProduction