Giant robotic saw with 2,000 mm blades takes concrete cutting to next level

In collaboration with contractor Sørheim Riveservice, Smart Production has developed this remote-controlled robotic saw to tackle the most challenging materials in construction, shipbuilding, and heavy manufacturing sectors.

“Our goal was to create a solution that combines brute force with the finesse of modern automation,” Joacim Lorentsson, CEO of KUKA Nordic, told TechEBlog. 

“The Catonator delivers on that promise, enabling manufacturers to cut complex geometries in materials that were once considered untouchable by robots,” Nordic added. 

Fully electric

Reportedly, the Catonator uses a “high-torque cutting system,” allowing it to effortlessly slice through tough materials such as steel, concrete, and even complex composites. 

Beyond its cutting power, the Catonator has impressive physical capabilities, including a payload capacity of up to 300 kg and an expansive reach extending over 3 meters. 

But its power is matched by its commitment to a better future. Thanks to its high-performance battery module, the Catonator is fully electric and produces no CO₂ emissions.

“In addition to reducing negative environmental impacts, the solution improves the working environment by eliminating noise and exhaust fumes from diesel generators – a major advance in sustainable construction technology,” the Kuka website noted.

Precision control

It offers precision and control at the fingertips.

At its core is KUKA’s SmartProduction ecosystem, which has a dashboard that is conveniently accessible on PCs and smartphones.

A constant stream of real-time data from built-in sensors optimizes cutting paths. 

This data fuels machine learning algorithms that optimize cutting paths, fine-tune blade speed, and minimize wear. 

The system consistently maintains exceptional precision, holding deviations to an incredibly fine tolerance of just 0.1 millimeters.

Operators command the Catonator via a wireless remote, choosing between pre-programmed sequences or direct execution of robot movements. 

The users maintain full oversight of the Catonator via the SmartProduction.

Moreover, the robotic saw features a modular toolhead, enabling operators to quickly and easily swap specialized blades for different materials.

For instance, operators can instantly switch to diamond-tipped blades for concrete, carbide blades for steel, or even highly specialized blades designed for aerospace composites.

The Catonator’s six-axis articulation provides flexibility to operate from virtually any angle. 

Moreover, dual LiDAR scanners offer enhanced safety.

Reportedly, these scanners create a “360-degree safety bubble” around the robot, instantly triggering a shutdown of the blade if a person or obstacle approaches too closely.

“Like other construction machines, the Catonator can be equipped with drilling and bending tools, further increasing its flexibility on the jobsite,” the website noted. 

The Catonator’s potential lies in its ability to automate tough manual jobs, allowing employees to shift their attention to crucial tasks like streamlining operations.