Related: UKA Robotics Corporation Introduces RoboSim 4-D Simulator at INNOVENTIONS(R) in Epcot(R) at the Walt Disney World(R) Resort
KUKA Robotics Corporation’s RoboSim 4-D Simulator plays vital role in Raytheon’s Sum of all Thrills™ at INNOVENTIONS at Epcot®
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.
