Cobots4You: Würzburg's trade fair shows the future of human-robot cooperation!

Cobots4You: Würzburg's trade fair shows the future of human-robot cooperation!

What's new in the world of robotics? Today there was on theCOBOTS4YOU trade fairinteresting input at the Vogel Convention Center in Würzburg, because the Würzburg-Schweinfurt University of Technology (THWS) presented concentrated knowledge about the collaboration between humans and robots. The focus was on so-called cobots – collaborative robots that are designed to work hand in hand with people. Prof. Dr. Tobias Kaupp and his team from the Center for Robotics (CERI) had their hands full with their current research and teaching projects informing the many curious visitors.

There was enthusiasm when the Bavarian State Minister for Digital, Dr. Fabian Mehring, gave a virtual welcoming speech and underlined the immense importance of cobots for relieving the burden on workers in industry. This is particularly relevant given the current skills shortage that is affecting many industries. “Robots can act as a third hand and increase productivity,” said Mehring in his speech.

Mixed reality and innovative approaches

A highlight of the event was certainlyKeynoteby Prof. Dr. Kaupp on “Mixed Reality in Human-Robot Collaboration”. This is about how digital technologies and robotics can be brought together to make the interaction between humans and machines safer and more efficient. This happens, for example, through the use ofMixed reality glassesas used in a research project with Alpaka Innovation. Welding experts can define the welding path while the cobot carries out the weld seams independently.

Initial results show that such techniques are promising. But as with everything, there is room for improvement here too. Another exciting project aims to investigate the suitability of mixed reality for training in assembly with cobots. Training can be carried out regardless of location and time, which not only offers flexibility, but also increases safety, as one trainer can train several participants at the same time.

Technical innovations and outlook

The THWS also presented application-oriented research, including the RoboCup platform “SWOT” and a creative student project with a robot arm that can play checkers. Prof. Dr. Kaupp was extremely satisfied with the trade fair appearance and the exchange with the trade audience. Around 700 visitors and 25 exhibitors ensured a lively environment. Compared to the previous year, the trade fair organizer was able to record an increase in audience of 15%.

But what does the future of human-robot interaction look like? The Fraunhofer Institute for Cognitive Systems IKS is conducting intensive research into “adaptive safety”. The focus is on methods and algorithms that create fewer restrictions in the collaboration between humans and machines. Innovative sensors such as depth cameras and LiDAR are used to actively monitor the environment and thus guarantee secure interaction without sacrificing productivity. Robots that can predict human behavior optimize their movement planning and thus contribute to a harmonious work environment.

In summary, the COBOTS4YOU trade fair not only provided a glimpse into the future of robotics, but also presented concrete solutions to the challenges of the current working world. With innovative approaches and a clear vision for human-machine collaboration, the robotics industry could definitely have a golden path ahead.