New international autonomous robotics lab to be based in UK

The centre will research new technologies for challenging and heavily regulated sectors such as space and nuclear

Infrastructure solutions company Jacobs, together with The University of Manchester in the UK, has announced plans to create a new international research center to develop robotics and autonomous systems.

The partners aim to leverage links between industry and academia to benefit sectors such as space, nuclear decommissioning, energy generation and urban infrastructure.

The Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-lasting Environments (CRADLE) will research new technologies for challenging and heavily regulated industry sectors, with a specific focus on mechatronics, software, and how communities and regulators will engage with future robotic systems.

Twelve PhD students will conduct the research and perform prototype demonstrations at The University of Manchester and at Jacobs’ robotics laboratories in Warrington, UK.

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The center will receive $11 million in funding over a period of five years. Jacobs will provide $4.6 million in funding, with the balance provided by The University of Manchester and the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s (EPSRC) Prosperity Partnerships program.

“Securing this prestigious Prosperity Partnerships grant allows Jacobs and The University of Manchester to research the autonomous systems that industry needs to solve today’s challenges and create a more connected and sustainable world,” said Jacobs Energy, Security & Technology senior vice president Karen Wiemelt.

“Robotics...will enable us to develop advanced technologies to help achieve net zero targets, such as autonomous inspection and repair systems to extend the life of water and energy networks, roads, bridges and railways.”

Jacobs will have the opportunity to commercialise technologies developed at CRADLE to be utilised where autonomous robotics is crucial for efficient asset management and operations.

According to Centre co-director Professor Barry Lennox, the partnership will help advance the current research focus of The Manchester Robotics and AI Centre "to deliver impact from the robotic and AI systems that we are developing."

The Centre has 120 academic and research staff, spanning the University's Schools of Engineering and Natural Sciences, as well as six unique robots facilitating the research.