KUKA Training Cells: AI-enabled robotics for the skilled workers of tomorrow

KUKA Education prepares high school students, college students, and today's workforce for careers in robotics, programming, and automation. Through modular training cells and industry-aligned curricula, learners gain hands-on experience with modern, data-driven manufacturing technologies and practical skills that translate directly to real-world applications.

From Theory to Practice: Understanding Robotics Step by Step

KUKA brings robotics to life for training centers, schools, and universities. The training cells combine theory with practical applications based on industrial robots, cobots, and AMRs. Depending on their configuration, they are CE-marked and UL-certified and provide an introduction to modern, AI-powered industrial applications. Thanks to powerful control technology, integrated vision components, and AI functionalities, users gain hands-on experience with data-driven automation and industrial image processing.

The robotic cells can operate autonomously, are ready for immediate use, and can be expanded modularly. As a ready-to-use complete solution, they already include didactically prepared training materials for instructors and students – enabling a quick start without additional planning or coordination efforts. Supplementary hardware and software, training offerings, and comprehensive support facilitate flexible integration into existing learning environments as well as retrofits.

Learners systematically develop skills – from basic pick-and-place tasks to complex motion sequences and PLC-based controls.

User-friendly
- Preconfigured and ready to use
- Sample programs and exercises at various difficulty levels
- Training materials for teachers and students included
- Delivery includes gripper & workpiece set
- Easy access to all system components – from the robot to the controller
Versatile
- Optional application packages for custom requirements
- Various difficulty levels
- Second application area for custom tasks
- Interfaces to external systems available
Space-saving and portable
- Compact design
- Easy to move to a new location without disassembly thanks to integrated casters
- Quick setup at the new location
- Designed for stand-alone operation

Take advantage of special rates and financing as an educational institution

Exclusive educational discounts are available for vocational schools, universities, and training centers. Benefit from discounted prices on training cells, software, and training programs. Simply sign up at my.KUKA to secure your discount.

In addition, flexible financing and leasing models are available to make getting started even easier.

Overview of KUKA Training Cells for Education & Industry

Discover all available models and options. Detailed technical information can be found on the my.KUKA customer portal. Once you have registered, you can customize your cells and order them directly. Educational institutions also benefit from exclusive special terms.

iiQKA Education Cell (industrial robot)

Flexible training cell for hands-on robotics – modularly expandable with an optional PLC package for advanced training

iiQKA Education Cell Vision (industrial robot)

Training cell with vision system preparation for complex processes – modularly expandable with a vision system and optional PLC package

iiQKA Education Cell lite (industrial robot)

Entry-level cell with an industrial robot – ideal for basic training and initial exercises, with an optional vision package available

iiQKA Education Cell lite (Cobot)

Compact entry-level cell with a cobot and a human-robot collaboration (HRC) gripper – ideal for simple training and safe HRC applications, with an optional vision package

iiQKA Education Kit (industrial robot)

Basic module for robotics training with an industrial robot and gripper – ideal for beginners and for integration into training solutions

iiQKA Education Kit (Cobot)

Basic module for close-proximity training with a cobot and an MRK gripper – ideal for flexible learning environments and initial applications

Configuration options and optional features

Overview / Features	Education Cell Vision	Education Cell	Education Cell lite	Education Cell lite Cobot	Education Kit	Education Kit Cobot
Industrial Robot KR 4 R600	✔	✔	✔		✔
Cobot LBR iisy 3 R760				✔		✔
KR C5 micro controller	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Operating system iiQKA.OS2	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
KUKA SmartPad Pro	✔	✔
KUKA SmartPad Pro	✔	✔
KUKA Smart Plug			✔	✔	✔	✔
Electric Gripper	✔	✔	✔		✔
Electric MRK Gripper				✔		✔
CE Marking	✔	✔	✔	✔		✔
cUL certification	✔	✔	✔	✔		✔
Pro Application Package (optional)	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Vision Application Package (optional)	✔	✔	✔	✔
PLC Application Package (optional)	✔	✔
Roller attachment kit			✔	✔	✔	✔
Base frame					✔	✔
Spindle table	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Drives Ready Lamp (NA/UL compliant)	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Training materials	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔

Discover all training modules on the my.KUKA Marketplace

Autonomous mobile robots for training purposes

AMR with a stroke length of up to 600 mm, a load capacity of 250 kg, and sleep mode – for realistic training and testing

Product Overview & Consultation for Your Training Cell

Would you like to optimize the design of your robotics training cell? Our experts will provide you with personalized advice and supply you with training materials tailored to your automation and training needs.

Send a non-binding inquiry Request training materials

FAQ on Robotics Training Cells: Frequently Asked Questions About Robotics Training and Applications

How many students can work on a robotics training station at the same time?

A robotics training cell is optimally designed for 2–3 people per station. While one person programs, the others can prepare the simulation or analyze programs. For larger classes (approx. 10–15 students), a rotation system or the use of multiple training cells is recommended.

Are teaching materials for the robotics training cell included?

Yes. Comprehensive, hands-on training materials are available for the robotics training cell, including videos, exercises, and sample programs. These enable structured training from the basics to practical application.

The content covers the following topics, among others:

Introduction to robotics
Structure and function of a KUKA robot system
Robot safety using the training cell as an example
Understanding and applying robot controller operating modes
Manipulating robot axes with the smartPAD
Assigning and working with coordinate systems
Robot mastering and payload configuration
TOOL and BASE management, including measurement
Handling robot-guided workpieces and stationary tools
Executing and optimizing robot programs
Understanding and creating motion types (PTP, LIN, CIRC, Spline)
Cycle time optimization of movements (SPTP)
Integration and programming of gripper technologies
Connection of peripherals via inputs and outputs
Understanding of pre-run and main run pointers

Request training materials

What prior knowledge is required to work with a robotics training cell?

A robotics training cell is designed to appeal to both beginners and advanced users alike. Specific prior knowledge is not required.

Basic knowledge in areas such as electrical engineering, metalworking, or mechatronics is advantageous but not mandatory. Thanks to the integrated teaching concept, even beginners can familiarize themselves with robotics step by step.

The included training material provides a structured introduction to:

Fundamentals of robotics and coordinate systems
Programming robot movements (PTP, LIN, CIRC)
Configuration of payloads and tools
Tool and base management
Operation and control of the robot
Inputs and outputs as well as the connection of peripheral devices
Project work with practical applications

What topics does a robotics training module cover?

Depending on the type of training cell and its equipment, the curriculum of a robotics training cell ranges from basic robotics knowledge to practical applications.

Fundamentals of Robotics

Understanding of robot systems, coordinate systems, and motion types (PTP, linear, circular)
Introduction to programming and operation

Application-oriented training

Pick-and-place applications as a typical industrial task
Training in precise robot movements, e.g., by guiding an eyelet along defined contours
Simulation of real processes such as welding or gluing through path motion training

Automation & Integration

PLC commissioning and programming
Working in automatic external operation mode
Integration of peripherals and interfaces

Advanced technologies (optional, depending on configuration)

Image processing and vision training
Combination with simulation software for supplementary learning paths

How long does it take to set up a robotics training cell?

The robotics training cell is delivered preconfigured and is quickly ready for operation once it has been positioned and connected to the power supply.

In most cases, the cell can be put into operation within a few hours. Thanks to detailed instructions, additional option packages can be installed easily in just a few steps.

Optionally, we also support you with:

Initial on-site commissioning
Training and instruction for teachers/trainers
On-site training sessions at your location

This video walks you through the entire process—from assembly to software installation. It’s perfect for anyone looking to get started in the world of industrial robotics.

Robotics training cell for internal training – which solution is right for you?

A robotics training cell is ideal for the internal training of employees, as it combines hands-on training with modular expandability. Scalable training systems can support learners from foundational robotics concepts through advanced, application-oriented scenarios, enabling organizations to develop skills that align with evolving automation requirements.

Typical requirements in companies include:

Rapid skill development for operators, programmers, and maintenance technicians
Practical training (e.g., pick-and-place, path movements, integration)
Flexible use for various skill levels

Modern training cells offer the following for this purpose:

Preconfigured training programs and teaching materials for a quick start
Modularly expandable concepts (e.g., with PLC or vision packages)
Combination of hands-on training and simulation to accelerate learning processes

What safety features does a training cell have for instruction and training?

Robotics training cells are specifically designed for safe use in educational environments and comply with relevant standards and certifications (e.g., CE marking).

Typical safety features include:

Integrated safety technology for training operations
Clear operating and control interfaces
Safe power and control concepts

In addition, accompanying training materials and courses support safe operation and responsible handling of robot systems.

What interfaces does a training cell have (Ethernet, USB, 24 V, etc.)?

Robotics training cells are designed for flexible use in training and integration and feature standard industrial interfaces and connections.

Typical integrated interfaces include:

Ethernet interfaces for network connectivity and communication
USB ports for data transfer and external devices
24 V power supply for PLC integration and peripherals
Digital inputs and outputs (I/Os) for connecting external components

Additionally, depending on the configuration, further interfaces or functions can be integrated, e.g.:

Interfaces for HMI/operator panels
Connection of PLC systems and external controllers
Extensions for vision systems or additional peripherals

Is there a simulation package specifically for educational customers (including teacher and student licenses)?

Yes, Education customers have access to a simulation package specifically tailored for training and teaching. This typically includes licenses for both teachers and students, allowing training to be conducted flexibly in the classroom and through self-study.

The simulation package enables users to virtually plan, test, and optimize robotics applications before implementing them on the actual training cell. This allows learning content to be efficiently prepared and reinforced.

Typical benefits:

Parallel work by learners in simulation and at the real cell
Safe testing of programs without risk to hardware
Support for hybrid learning concepts (simulation + practice)