KUKA presents the future of packaging at interpack 2026 – fast, flexible, autonomous
At interpack 2026, KUKA will demonstrate how fast pick-and-place systems, hygienic oil and cleanroom robots, palletizing solutions, heavy-duty robots, and AMRs make packaging processes more efficient. In Hall 6, Booth B74, KUKA will present smart, clean, and end-to-end automation for packaging, food, and consumer goods applications.
07 ?????, 2026
Artificial intelligence, automated processes, and future technologies: The packaging industry is undergoing a transformation. From May 7 to 13, the world’s largest trade and packaging fair will demonstrate what this can already look like in reality today. The automation expert from Augsburg will showcase the possibilities of pick-and-place and packaging in combination with AMR and intelligent software through three applications. Visitors will also learn how the functionalities of humanoid robots can already be implemented today using industrial robotics.
Two new robots with a future-proof operating system
KUKA is presenting two new products at interpack 2026: the new generation of the popular KR CYBERTECH with 35-kilogram payload and the KR AGILUS ultra, which opens up new application areas in small-scale robotics. The robots not only offer new possibilities in terms of hardware, but are also compatible with the new iiQKA.OS2 operating system, which is scalable and can be flexibly adapted to all robot applications. Thanks to AI enhancements and compliance with the requirements of ISO 10218:2025 and the new Machinery Regulation, iiQKA.OS2 ensures that automated operations are future-proof. Visitors can see this for themselves live at the KUKA booth.
The KR CYBERTECH, with a payload of 35 kilograms, expands KUKA’s product portfolio, which also benefits the packaging industry.
High-speed robots in hygienic design
In the “Consumer Goods Cell,” two KR DELTA and two KR AGILUS robots demonstrate what high speed means: Using poker chips moving along a conveyor belt, the Delta robots simulate automated pick-and-place operations. Integrated cameras detect the poker chips, grab them, and place them elsewhere in a defined pattern, simulating a customized packaging process. Whether for chocolates, spoons for baby food, or hamburger patties: “The multi-robot application is highly relevant for the interpack target audience and is already in use in this form at several companies,” says Ralf Schneider, Business Development Manager GI at KUKA.
The KR DELTA robots demonstrate what is possible in the field of pick-and-place.
Humanoid reimagined with three KR AGILUS robots
Complementing this multi-robot application, the project demonstrates a typical application in the field of picking and how these processes can be facilitated by artificial intelligence and automation. What makes it special: The application, which is controlled by AI software, resembles a humanoid robot with a head and two arms in terms of functionality. It consists of three KR AGILUS robots and a camera system working together in a very confined space.
Three KR AGILUS robots work together during the picking process - much like a humanoid robot.
It doesn’t matter what the robot looks like, but rather what benefits it brings to the customer.
iiQKA.OS2 & iiQWorks.Sim: Software that simplifies automation
With iiQKA.OS2, KUKA presents the next evolutionary stage of its operating system: With its compatible software packages, the new system covers all relevant functionalities for general industry while enabling rapid commissioning with significantly improved usability. Advanced tech packages for pick-and-place or palletizing expand the range of functions and make automation even more efficient and versatile. iiQWorks.Sim complements the portfolio as powerful, lifelike simulation software. From cell planning to virtual commissioning, it enables end-to-end engineering and significantly reduces development times.
The new KR AGILUS ultra expands KUKA's portfolio of small robots.
Extensive AMR portfolio for the packaging industry
At the trade show, the cells and systems are combined with another future-oriented topic: autonomous mobile robotics (AMR). For example, the KMP 250P mobile platform transports boxes of products, and a KMP 600P demonstrates that even an entire cell can be moved from one location to another. The combination of palletizing and mobile platforms was already a focus at interpack three years ago – with its expanded AMR portfolio, KUKA is now taking the topic to a new level.
The wide range of AMR solutions makes material flows faster and easier.
When there’s a shortage of workers, processes need to become smarter: simple packaging and logistics tasks, in particular, are ideal candidates for automation. Invest in your future and competitive edge with our robotics and AMR solutions.
3D simulation of the exhibits by Visual Components
Whether it’s material delivery via AMR, packaging and palletizing by individual robots, or order picking: Visual Components, the software and simulation specialist within the KUKA Group, will demonstrate how the individual systems interact in real-world production with a 3D simulation on screen at Hall 6, Booth B74. The simulation includes all exhibits from this year’s trade show presentation, allowing visitors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the application possibilities. At interpack 2026, the KUKA Group is making it clear with its portfolio: Robotics and automation make the packaging industry more flexible, precise, and efficient.
Visit KUKA at interpack 2026
At the trade and packaging fair in Düsseldorf from May 7 to 13, KUKA will be showcasing its portfolio in Hall 6, Booth B74—ranging from pick-and-place and mobile robotics to intelligent software. Stop by and be inspired by the future of the packaging industry.
