Kawasaki Robotics showcased a range of advanced automation technologies at Automate 2026 in Chicago, demonstrating how robotics, AI, machine learning, vision systems, and real-time control are transforming industrial automation.
Among the highlights were the debut of the new “RL030N” 8 Degree of Freedom (DoF) robot platform designed for Physical AI applications, Kawasaki Robotics’ patented Pulseboard inspection technology demonstrated in a live robotic weld inspection system developed with Fives DyAG, and the introduction of the new MXP360L and BA013L industrial robots.
Demonstrated throughout Kawasaki Robotics’ booth, the technologies showcased intelligent automation systems capable of advanced motion control, precision inspection, and flexible manufacturing.
Caption: Kawasaki’s latest innovations included the patented Pulseboard inspection technology.
Seiji Amazawa, president, Kawasaki Robotics, says: “At Kawasaki Robotics, we believe the future of automation will be defined by robotic systems that seamlessly integrate perception, motion, and decision making.
“Automate 2026 marks an important milestone as we introduce technologies designed to support emerging Physical AI applications while continuing to deliver the industrial reliability manufacturers depend on.”
RL030N built for physical AI applications
Making its debut at Automate 2026, the RL030N robot was presented as the industry’s first 8-axis robot designed specifically for Physical AI applications.
It combines high-speed motion, enhanced dexterity, lightweight construction, and real-time external orchestration capabilities for dynamic and confined environments.
Unlike conventional industrial robots optimized for repetitive tasks, the RL030N supports AI-driven applications requiring adaptive motion, obstacle avoidance, confined-space manipulation, and complex motion planning.
Its unique 8DoF architecture adds an additional articulation axis, providing greater dexterity and flexibility than traditional six-axis robots.
Caption: The RL030N robot is the industry’s first 8-axis robot designed specifically for Physical AI applications.
The RL030N is powered by Kawasaki Robotics’ open KRNX real-time control API, enabling external AI software, ROS environments, machine learning systems, vision platforms, and third-party orchestration systems to control the robot in real time.
Pulseboard technology speeds weld inspection
Kawasaki Robotics also demonstrated its patented Tool Tip Displacement Output Function technology, known as Pulseboard, integrated into an advanced robotic weld inspection solution developed with partner Fives DyAG.
The system combined a Kawasaki RS013N robot, a laser 3D profile camera, and Kawasaki’s high-speed motion synchronization technology to improve inspection performance for complex weld geometries and curved surfaces.
Unlike conventional inspection systems that require robots to stop repeatedly for image capture, Pulseboard continuously synchronizes image acquisition with the robot’s tool-tip displacement.
According to the company, this enables high-resolution imaging during acceleration and deceleration, allowing weld inspection to be performed up to 10 times faster while improving defect localization and reducing setup requirements.
Wade Rickard, CEO of Fives DyAG Corp., said: “The solution developed in partnership with Kawasaki using the pulseboard delivers real value to our customers. It accelerates inspections, identifies defects, and maintains the highest level of quality without slowing or sacrificing production time.
“Together with Kawasaki, we deliver an innovative high-speed inspection solution that redefines efficiency, enhances reliability, and enables smarter operations.”
Closed-loop dispensing with Coherix
Kawasaki Robotics also showcased its BU015X seven-axis robot in an adhesive dispensing and inspection demonstration developed with Coherix.
Designed to simulate an automotive production environment, the system applied sealant to a Ford F-150 door skin while continuously measuring and automatically adjusting adhesive bead placement in real time at speeds of up to 400 times per second.
Combining Kawasaki Robotics’ hollow-arm robot design with Coherix’s 3D laser-based Adaptive Process Control technology, the system used machine learning and real-time process optimization to help manufacturers reduce defects, material waste, labour costs, and rework while maintaining full production-line speeds.
Scott Childs, senior director, automotive group, Kawasaki Robotics, says: “This closed-loop dispensing demonstration represents the next evolution of intelligent manufacturing, where robotics, AI-driven process control, and real-time inspection work together to create systems that continuously adapt and optimize.”
New industrial robots
The BA013L 13 kg arc welding robot also made its debut inside a compact welding cell designed for high-performance welding applications.
The demonstration cell featured the BA013L robot, Kawasaki PST500-L2 dual-axis positioner, Rollon Glider RTU, Strong Hand welding table, and Miller welding power source.
Built for demanding production environments, the robot features a redesigned architecture with a 50 mm hollow wrist for internal cable routing, support for high-current welding torches, reduced cable wear, and improved accessibility.
High-speed axis performance reaching 730°/s and an extended 2,093 mm reach are designed to improve cycle times while maintaining weld quality.
Caption: The MXP360L industrial robot handled a Kawasaki Z125S motorcycle on a Rollon RTU linear axis.
The MXP360L industrial robot was demonstrated handling a Kawasaki Z125S motorcycle on a Rollon RTU linear axis, highlighting its 360 kg payload capacity, extended reach, and advanced vibration-control technology for heavy-duty material handling applications.
Kawasaki Robotics also featured collaborative robot demonstrations, including CL Series welding carts and a sanding application using a FerRobotics sanding tool.
Main image: The MXP360L industrial robot shown handling a Kawasaki Z125S motorcycle on a Rollon RTU linear axis
