Learn KUKA-SUNRISE-EXTENSIONS with Real Code Examples

Sunrise Extensions extend the KUKA Sunrise Workbench environment for advanced robot programming.

They provide pre-built modules for motion, I/O, networking, safety, and simulation tasks.

Enable integration with enterprise systems, PLCs, and external sensors.

Facilitate rapid development of complex robotic applications without reinventing common functionality.

Support modular, maintainable, and reusable Java-based robot programs.

High-level motion commands with safety constraints

I/O abstraction and device interfacing

Networking APIs (Ethernet/IP, OPC-UA, Modbus)

Simulation helpers for virtual robot testing

Template-based application structures for faster development

Extension Library - a set of reusable Java classes and modules

Motion Module - advanced commands for path planning and trajectories

I/O Module - abstraction for sensor and actuator integration

Safety Module - monitors and enforces motion and force limits

Simulation Module - tools for testing applications virtually

src/ - Java source files using extension classes

lib/ - imported Sunrise Extension JAR files

resources/ - configuration files, motion data, and safety parameters

test/ - simulation and testing scripts

doc/ - documentation for project and module usage

Start a new Java project in Sunrise Workbench

Import required Sunrise Extension libraries

Use pre-built modules to implement motion, I/O, and safety logic

Test functionality in simulation first

Deploy program to KUKA Sunrise controller

Beginner: simple pick-and-place using motion modules

Intermediate: integrating vision sensors and I/O devices

Advanced: multi-robot coordination and synchronized motion

Expert: safety-critical tasks with force monitoring and certified motions

Integrator: full deployment in production environment with PLC communication

Sunrise Extensions vs base Java API: higher-level abstractions and pre-built modules

Sunrise Extensions vs PLC-only control: richer robot motion and safety integration

Sunrise Extensions vs KRL (KUKA Robot Language): Java-based vs KRL scripting

Sunrise Extensions vs ROS integration: simplified vendor-supported modules vs full open-source framework

Sunrise Extensions vs custom Java code: reduced development time and better maintainability

2010 - Initial Sunrise Extensions released alongside Workbench

2013 - Expanded motion and safety modules added

2016 - Networking and PLC integration libraries introduced

2019 - Simulation and multi-robot coordination modules released

2022 - Latest extensions improve API usability and add safety enhancements

2025 - Current version supports latest Sunrise OS and Java features

Sunrise OS - Java-based KUKA robot controller system

Extension Library - reusable code modules provided by KUKA

Waypoint - a defined position or pose for the robot to reach

Trajectory - path followed by robot between waypoints

I/O Abstraction - interface layer for sensors/actuators