Kinova Link 6
Autonomous mobile manipulator for dynamic environments
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The Kinova Link 6 is an advanced autonomous mobile manipulator that combines a mobile base with dual 6-DOF robotic arms for versatile manipulation tasks. Designed for industrial automation, logistics, and research applications, it features autonomous navigation, collaborative operation capabilities, and advanced perception systems. The platform is built for dynamic environments where flexible, mobile manipulation is required.
Released: 2023
Overview
The Kinova Link 6 represents Kinova Robotics' entry into the mobile manipulation market, combining their proven Gen3 robotic arm technology with an autonomous mobile platform. This integration creates a versatile system capable of performing complex manipulation tasks while navigating autonomously through industrial and research environments.
Built on Kinova's legacy of collaborative robotics, the Link 6 emphasizes safe human-robot interaction while maintaining the precision and reliability required for industrial applications. The platform features dual 6-DOF arms mounted on a mobile base, enabling sophisticated bimanual manipulation tasks and extended workspace coverage. The system is designed with modularity in mind, allowing for customization based on specific application requirements.
The Link 6 platform leverages ROS (Robot Operating System) compatibility and comprehensive SDK support, making it accessible to researchers and integrators. Its open architecture enables seamless integration with existing automation systems and facilitates the development of custom applications across various industries including manufacturing, logistics, and laboratory automation.
Key Features
- Dual 6-DOF robotic arms: Two Gen3 arms providing 4 kg payload capacity each with 902 mm reach for versatile manipulation
- Autonomous navigation: Mobile base with integrated sensors for obstacle detection and path planning in dynamic environments
- Collaborative operation: Safe for working alongside humans with built-in safety features and compliant control
- ROS compatibility: Full ROS integration with open-source drivers and comprehensive documentation for easy development
- Precision manipulation: ±0.1 mm repeatability enabling high-accuracy pick-and-place and assembly operations
- Modular design: Customizable platform allowing integration of additional sensors, grippers, and end-effectors
Applications
The Kinova Link 6 is designed for applications requiring mobile manipulation in structured and semi-structured environments. In manufacturing, it can perform material handling, machine tending, and quality inspection tasks across multiple workstations. Research institutions utilize the platform for mobile manipulation research, human-robot interaction studies, and algorithm development. The system's dual-arm configuration makes it particularly suitable for tasks requiring bimanual coordination such as assembly operations, packaging, and complex material handling.
In logistics and warehouse environments, the Link 6 can automate order fulfillment, inventory management, and goods sorting operations. Laboratory settings benefit from its precision and mobility for sample handling, equipment operation, and automated testing procedures. The platform's collaborative nature and ROS compatibility make it an ideal testbed for advancing mobile manipulation technologies and developing next-generation automation solutions.
Technical Highlights
The Link 6's technical foundation is built on Kinova's Gen3 robotic arm technology, which features a unique curved design that maximizes workspace while minimizing footprint. Each arm provides 6 degrees of freedom with ±0.1 mm repeatability, ensuring precise and consistent manipulation across a 902 mm reach envelope. The 4 kg payload capacity per arm is sufficient for a wide range of end-effectors and manipulation tasks, while the carbon fiber construction maintains a favorable payload-to-weight ratio.
The platform's integration of ROS enables researchers and developers to leverage the extensive ROS ecosystem for perception, planning, and control. Kinova's SDK provides high-level APIs for both the arms and mobile base, simplifying application development and system integration. The open architecture supports customization at multiple levels, from low-level motor control to high-level task planning, making it adaptable to diverse research and industrial requirements.
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