Kinova Robotics :: Design & Manufacture Of Ultra-Lightweight, Human-Centric Robotic Arms

Kinova Robotics is a Canadian company founded in 2006 in Boisbriand, Quebec, specializing in the design and manufacture of ultra-lightweight, human-centric robotic arms. Originally focused on assistive technologies to empower individuals with upper-body limitations (with the iconic JACO arm), Kinova has evolved into a global leader in professional, collaborative, and research robotics. The company emphasizes safe, modular, and versatile robotic solutions that enhance human capabilities across research, industry, medical, education, and assistive applications. Kinova arms are known for their excellent payload-to-weight ratio, low power consumption, and ease of integration with platforms like ROS (Robot Operating System).

Kinova manufactures its robots in North America and offers end-to-end solutions, including hardware, software, and support. Their products prioritize safety for human-robot collaboration, precision manipulation, and adaptability to diverse environments.

Key robot-based products include a family of advanced lightweight robotic arms:

• Gen3 Series (including Gen3 and Gen3 lite): Ultra-lightweight (around 7.2 kg), modular 6 or 7 DoF arms with a continuous payload of up to 4 kg and reach of ~891 mm. Designed for research, automation, and professional applications, they feature low power consumption (~36W), high precision, ROS 2 compatibility, and quick setup. Ideal for advanced manipulation, vision-guided tasks, and rapid prototyping.
• Link 6 Cobot: A collaborative robot arm optimized for industrial and service applications, emphasizing safety and ease of use alongside humans.
• Gen2 Series: Portable, power-efficient 6 or 7 DoF arms with embedded controllers, suitable for various environments and research.
• JACO Assistive Arm: The original assistive robotic arm for users with mobility challenges, still available for rehabilitation and daily living support.

Kinova arms are widely used in academic research, medical robotics, industrial automation, logistics, security, agriculture, and education. They support applications like pick-and-place, inspection, teleoperation, and mobile robot platforms. The company offers Robotics as a Service (RaaS) options and focuses on innovation through strategic partnerships.