Published: March 11, 2010
The KUKA RoboSim 4-D Simulator is Part of the Equation in the Sum of all Thrills
CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - KUKA Robotics Corporation's RoboSim 4-D Simulator is a key element in
the new theme park experience that allows guests to custom-design their
own thrill ride using mathematical tools, an innovative touch-screen
table and a robotic simulator. As the first ride to be located within
INNOVENTIONS at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort, Sum
of all Thrills is the latest example of Raytheon's innovative
approach to help educate and inspire young students about the power of
math, science and math-related activities.
The over 1.4 million possible programmable combinations of the KUKA
Robocoaster utilizing all 6 axes and 6 degrees of total directional
freedom provided Raytheon with a unique vehicle choice for the
interactive and customizable Sum of all Thrills experience. Each
guest uses multi-touch, object recognition tables with instructions and
math and engineering-based tools, such as rulers and speed dials, to
design and customize their ride by adding corkscrews, inversions or
steep hills. When the design of the ride is complete, it is saved on a
personal card through a unique magnetic code. The card is then used to
allow each guest to experience his or her custom ride from beginning to
end on one of four robotic KUKA RoboSim 4-D simulators within the ride.
The KUKA RoboSim 4-D Simulator creates a 4-dimensional experience
through 3-D robotic motion with simulated "wind," by controlling air
movements to stimulate the senses and provide a more realistic
simulation experience. The appeal of the 2-seat simulator is that it
does not fully enclose the rider, but allows the rider's legs and feet
to be suspended. The spherical carbon-fiber hood, which is integrated as
part of the unique KUKA RoboCoaster ride system, immerses the rider into
a true sensory experience by using high definition video combined with
stereo sound and controlled air motion.
"KUKA is proud to be involved in Raytheon's Sum of all Thrills .
Raytheon's continued effort towards encouraging students to develop and
sustain math and science skills utilizing innovative techniques is
imaginative, modern and proven effective," said Stuart Shepherd
President KUKA Robotics Corporation. The educational fun continues from
home online, at www.MathMovesU.com.
Guests can continue their experience in a virtual Sum of all Thrills world
that requires the guest to answer math related questions to unlock the
elements to build their ride online.
"The RoboSim 4-D Simulator is another example of the innovative and
dynamic robotic technology solutions offered by KUKA Robotics, extending
the possibilities of our product offering to the expanding entertainment
and edutainment markets," stated Michael Beaupre, Director of New Market
Sales for KUKA Robotics Corporation. "The 4D RoboSim could also be
applied to a non-stationary ride system by combining it with a linear
motion rail system or vehicle such as the KUKA patented omniMove omni
directional motion platform technology to further enhance the overall
RoboSim 4-D experience." Prime venues for use of the RoboCoaster and
RoboSim versions include theme and amusement parks, science centers,
shopping malls, family entertainment centers (FEC) and other
motion-enhanced, virtual reality applications.
About the KUKA Robot Group
KUKA Robotics Corporation along with KUKA Roboter GmbH, Augsburg
Germany (part of the KUKA Aktiengesellschaft group of worldwide
companies), ranks among the world's leading suppliers of industrial
robots and material handling vehicles. Core competencies include the
development, production, and sale of industrial robots, controllers,
software, linear units, and omniMove omni-directional motion platforms.
KUKA robots are utilized in a diverse range of industries including the
appliance, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, logistics, food,
pharmaceutical, medical, foundry and plastics industries as well as
multiple applications including material handling, machine loading,
assembly, packaging, palletizing, welding, bending, joining, and surface
finishing. KUKA robots range from 5kg to 1300kg payloads, and 635mm to
3900mm reach, all controlled from a common PC based controller platform.
KUKA is the market leader in Germany and Europe, and number three in the
world. The KUKA Robot Group employs about 2,000 people worldwide.
Of these, 1,100 are employed in Germany, either at the KUKA Robot Group
headquarters in Augsburg, or at various subsidiaries. In 2009,
sales totaled 330,5 million Euro (preliminary figures). Twenty-five
subsidiaries provide a presence in the major markets of Europe, the
Americas and Asia. For more information contact KUKA Robotics at
866-873-5852 or visit their website at www.kukarobotics.com.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology
and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and
other government markets throughout the world. With a history of
innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art
electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the
areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and
intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support
services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000
people worldwide.
About INNOVENTIONS at Epcot
INNOVENTIONS is located in the heart of Epcot at the Walt Disney
World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Creativity and imagination
abound as guests celebrate inspiration and the innovations that improve
their lives and expand their horizons. Hands-on, interactive exhibits
allow children and adults to be immersed into ideas that inform,
entertain and inspire. For more information, visit www.innoventions.disney.com.
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KUKA Robotics Corporation
Media Contact:
Rebecca
Markel, 586-465-8855
Marketing Manager
rebeccamarkel@kukarobotics.com
www.kukarobotics.com
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