Kuka
Picture a massive robotic arm weighing 2.4 tons, equipped with a towering 6-foot-7-inch (2-meter) circular saw blade and an impressive 12-foot (3.7-meter) reach, all mounted on a truck-friendly hooklift system for easy transport. It’s both intimidating and impressive. This is the Catonator—Smart Production’s latest innovation, built around the powerful Kuka KR Fortec 480 Ultra.
Precision, Power, and Versatility in One Machine
This fully electric, battery-powered cutting robot weighs 4,850 lb (2,200 kg) and features six axes of movement. Designed to cut concrete and rock with extreme precision—down to 0.1 mm—it also supports payloads of up to 660 lb (299 kg). Thanks to its modular toolhead, the Catonator can quickly switch between tools for cutting (with 1- or 2-meter saw blades), drilling, and bending, making it versatile enough for projects ranging from tunnel excavation to shipbuilding.
Equipped with a sophisticated array of sensors, the Catonator continuously sends data to its onboard systems. Machine learning algorithms manage the high-torque electric spindle, adjusting blade speed and cutting paths in real time to maximize efficiency while extending blade life. Operators can monitor everything through Smart Production’s digital dashboard, accessible via computer or smartphone.
The machine can be controlled wirelessly with a joystick, or it can execute preprogrammed tasks autonomously. This allows it to transition from transport to action far more quickly than conventional concrete-cutting equipment.
So what’s the advantage?
A Cleaner, Quieter Alternative to Demolition
When compared to traditional demolition tools—like jackhammers or explosive charges (PETN, TNT, etc.)—the Catonator offers a dramatic performance boost. It cuts through materials like concrete, rock, and even steel up to 10 times faster, while producing significantly less noise, debris, and disruption. And since it runs entirely on electricity, it’s safe to operate in enclosed areas without the danger of harmful diesel emissions.
For safety, the Catonator includes a 360-degree LiDAR system that forms a protective perimeter. If an object or person enters this zone, the robot automatically halts to prevent accidents.
The mastermind behind the Catonator is Cato Sørheim, a veteran in demolition and concrete-cutting turned robotics innovator. Founder of Sørheim Riveservice AS, Sørheim brings decades of hands-on industry experience to the table, and he’s now leveraging that knowledge to build smarter, cleaner, and faster demolition tools.
While the Catonator isn’t available for commercial purchase yet and no pricing has been revealed, the potential savings—especially in insurance and downtime—could make it a game-changer for the construction and demolition industries.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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