Kinova Celebrates 20 Years of Innovation with the Launch of KIMA, Its Medical Robotic Arm
Kinova is marking its 20th anniversary with the launch of KIMA, a next-generation medical robotic arm designed specifically for clinical environments. The unveiling occurred at the Society of Robotic Surgery (SRS) 2026 Annual Meeting, highlighting Kinova's transition from assistive robotics to high-precision medical solutions.
The KIMA robotic arm is designed with a human-centric philosophy, aimed at enhancing healthcare capabilities. It supports practitioners across a variety of applications, including endoscopy, bronchoscopy, and complex surgical procedures. Its advanced kinematic architecture is tailored to meet rigorous clinical workflows, providing enhanced precision and adaptability.
Built from the ground up for clinical use, KIMA incorporates IEC 62304 Class C software and adheres to ISO 14971 safety standards. With a payload capacity of 3 kg and a frame weight of under 13 kg, it eliminates the need for bulky control boxes, allowing medical device manufacturers (OEMs) to develop next-generation medical systems with increased efficiency and flexibility. François Boucher, Vice President of Kinova, stated, "KIMA represents a shift in how medical robotics should be built. We designed this robotic arm specifically for clinical realities, applying absolute quality manufacturing standards to pave the way for technologies better aligned with the needs of patients and practitioners."
KIMA is backed by a robust network of technology partners, including QNX, RTI, MedAcuity, MPE, and Acontis, which are designed to reduce integration complexity. The modular platform enables innovators across various sectors, from startups to established medtech companies, to expedite the development of advanced clinical solutions. Charles Deguire, CEO and Co-founder of Kinova remarked, "The important thing is not the size of the steps we take, but the willingness to keep moving forward, one step at a time, in the same direction."
Founded in 2006 and based in Boisbriand, Quebec, Kinova is recognized as a leader in assistive and collaborative robotics. Its products are designed, developed, and assembled in Canada, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to quality and innovation across medical, professional, and assistive applications.