What role does simulation play in KUKA's development process?

Simulation plays a crucial role in KUKA's development process by allowing for the testing and optimization of robot programs before they are implemented in real-world environments. This capability enables engineers and developers to visualize and analyze the robotic behaviors and interactions in a controlled setting, thereby identifying potential issues and inefficiencies at an early stage.

By employing simulation tools, KUKA is able to streamline the programming process and ensure that the robotic systems function as intended. It facilitates experimentation with various scenarios, configurations, and parameters without the risks and costs associated with actual hardware use. This not only enhances the reliability of the final product but also fosters innovation, as developers can pursue more complex and refined robot functionalities with assurance that they will perform well when put into operation.

In contrast, the other options incorrectly attribute a limited role to simulation, suggesting it is only for marketing purposes, serving merely as a backup to physical testing, or not being necessary at all in the development process. None of these reflect the extensive capabilities and advantages simulation provides in enhancing both product development and efficiency in robotic applications.