For large industrial robots, payloads of 100kg (220lbs), 200kg, even 1000kg are common. These robots can manipulate in all axes, at velocities exceeding 2m/s (6.5fps). This kind of power is great for saving a few seconds of cycle time on a welding line, but you may have wondered: has anyone ever strapped a chair to that flange?
As a matter of fact, someone has—professionally. The company RoboCoaster Ltd was founded in 2001 with the goal of finding entertainment applications for industrial robots. The company maintains partnerships with KUKA and Dynamic Attractions. Then again, it seems that there are also people crazy enough to bolt on a lawn chair and strap in.
This week, I’m enrolled in the Robot Programming 1 course at KUKA College Canada. On the first day, our class went down a quick YouTube ‘rabbit-hole’ on the topic of ‘Robocoasters,’ or rides built on industrial robots. I took the liberty of curating my favorite six videos and posting them below for your viewing pleasure.
I captured timestamps, so the videos should skip to the good part.
RoboCoaster at Leisure Industry Week
This video features an early version of the RoboCoaster, in a ride much like a huge, articulated mechanical bull.
RoboCoaster at IAAPA
This clip shows an updated version of the RoboCoaster at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions(IAAPA) trade show. The robot featured has a payload of up to 500kg. The same outfit is used for the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey dark ride at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida.
Robot Ride
On the other hand, this video might give your inner OSHA inspector goosebumps. Notice how close the rider's head comes to the concrete floor while riding this FANUC robot. (I'm going to assume FANUC did not approve this message.)
Robot Arm Ride at Weston
This ride is located at the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, England.
Matt rides the Kuka Robotic Arm
In this video, a man named Matt enjoys the ride at LegoLand California.
For another great robot ride video, check out this non-certified ride on an ABB arm. Be sure to read the detailed description on that video.
Would you buckle into a ride designed by your resident robot programmer? How about a safety-certified RoboCoaster? Let us know in the comments below.