Design and Implementation of a UFP Interface for Controlling KUKA LBR iiwa Robot Via Real-Time Hand Guiding

Year 2026, Volume: 15 Issue: 2, 127 - 138, 29.01.2026

Omar Shehata , Mohammad Baniyounis Rolf Biesenbach Jan Falkenhain

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive study focused on the design and implementation of a User-Friendly Platform (UFP) interface tailored for real-time control of the KUKA LBR iiwa 7 R800 robot. The aim of the study is to enhance the interaction and collaboration between humans and robots in industrial settings, particularly in manual assembly tasks. The research emphasizes simplifying complex programming, ensuring safety, optimizing trajectory, enhancing accuracy, and facilitating seamless system integration. A particular focus is placed on the accessibility of the interface, enabling non-programmers to interact intuitively with the system, overcoming limitations associated with traditional robot programming methods. The developed interface, implemented through Java for the smartPAD control panel via Sunrise Workbench software, provides a touch-based, user-friendly solution for real-time control and monitoring of robot movements. This study utilizes a comprehensive approach to qualitative data collection and analysis, which directly informs the interface design and functionality. The research underscores the significance of this advancement in promoting efficient and safe industrial operations, with particular attention to human-robot collaboration, safety mechanisms, and ease of use. Future research directions are also outlined, emphasizing the potential for broader industrial adoption and integration with emerging technologies such as IoT and Industry 4.0.

Keywords

Industrial manipulator , Collaborative robots , KUKA LBR iiwa robot , Redundant manipulator , Precise hand-guiding , Obstacle avoidance , Intuitive interfaces

Ethical Statement

Ethical considerations are paramount throughout the research, with a strong emphasis on prioritizing the safety of human participants and ensuring the secure operation of the robot during the testing and implementation phases. Personal or sensitive data is not involved in the research process.

Supporting Institution

Bochum University of Applied Sciences

Project Number

2

Thanks

So thankful for the European Tempus-JIM2l project and Bochum university of applied science

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