The Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA) has co-founded the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG), bringing its expertise in application-oriented research, technology transfer, and open-source software. The RIG is set to become the central hub for AI-based robotics in Germany, aiming to consolidate the country’s leading research in this field. Twenty-one renowned robotics locations across Germany, including eight universities, the Fraunhofer Institutes IPA, IOSB, and IML, and various other non-university research institutions and associations, are collaborating to establish the institute. Currently, the RIG includes 19 associated partners.
The goal of RIG is to continue the tradition of innovation in key industries such as chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and automotive manufacturing. These sectors have historically been pillars of Germany’s industrial success and prosperity. German experts in AI-based robotics are internationally recognized, having made significant contributions to the global robotics landscape. The RIG aims to consolidate these valuable resources, strategically enhance them, and leverage them as a competitive advantage for the German economy.
Fraunhofer IPA contributes significantly to RIG with its extensive knowledge in application-oriented research, technology transfer, and open-source software. A key area of focus is the “Robot Operating System” (ROS) and the ROS-Industrial initiative, through which the institute has promoted technology transfer to industry for a decade. This initiative has enabled the institute to build extensive knowledge and a strong international network. Furthermore, Werner Kraus, head of the Automation and Robotics research department at Fraunhofer IPA, has been instrumental in the “Tech Transfer Awards” of the European non-profit association “euRobotics.” This experience will help establish similar awards within RIG.
With its typical focus on applied research, Fraunhofer IPA also contributes to developing the roadmap for AI-driven robots. The institute’s staff members are actively involved in various committees, organizations, and associations both nationally and internationally, providing strategic knowledge that will benefit RIG. Moreover, Fraunhofer IPA offers numerous training opportunities for professionals in developing and using AI-driven robots.
Angela Schoellig from the consortium leader, the Technical University of Munich, and RIG spokesperson Tamim Asfour from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology presented the RIG concept at the “AI-based Robotics” conference in Berlin in June. The initial term for the decentralized network is set for four years, starting on July 1, 2024, with the kickoff meeting taking place on July 29 and 30 in Munich. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research is funding the initial phase of RIG with 20 million euros.
Photo credit: Robotics Institute Germany/Foto: Daniel Delang
