United Kingdom

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) have launched a new project focusing on the interaction between humans and robots in public spaces. This initiative, part of the ZEN-MRI project, explores how to achieve harmonious coexistence between people and robots.

Canvas, a construction robotics company specializing in drywall finishing, has introduced the 1200CX, a compact, all-wheel drive robotic machine designed for use in small spaces. This development follows years of refinement and

The global Collaborative Robots Market, valued at USD 815.40 million in 2022, is projected to grow to USD 2297.77 million by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.20% from 2024 to 2031, according to SkyQuest Technology. This growth is driven by the integration of robots into human environments, advancements in robotics technology, and the increasing use of robots across various industry verticals. Enhanced human-machine interaction, facilitated by artificial intelligence and machine learning, is expected to further boost the market.

Shanghai has introduced China’s inaugural guidelines for humanoid robot governance, emphasizing ‘the protection of human dignity’ and ‘the assurance of human security’. These guidelines were announced at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) and highlight the importance of risk management and international cooperation.

Phyron, a Swedish company specializing in AI video technology, has secured €10 million in a Series B funding round. The investment, led by Vienna-based Round2 Capital, also saw participation from existing shareholders and automotive retail giant Peter Vardy. This follows Round2 Capital’s initial revenue-based financing investment in Phyron in June 2023, with Round2 now also becoming a shareholder.

Universal Robotshas announced that it has launched over 500 products within its UR+ ecosystem. This milestone reflects the significant expansion of the ecosystem since its inception in 2016. The UR+ platform was created to enable developers to innovate and produce various components, kits, applications, and solutions, both in hardware and software, to cater to diverse customer requirements.

A Phoenix police officer has stopped an autonomous Waymo vehicle that was driving in an oncoming traffic lane. According to Waymo, the vehicle encountered inconsistent construction signage, causing it to enter the wrong lane. The vehicle also reportedly ran a red light before pulling into a parking lot to allow the officer to communicate with a Waymo support representative.

In 2022, Germany saw 4.15 billion courier, express, and parcel shipments, a figure projected to rise to 4.9 billion by 2027, according to the German Parcel and Express Logistics Association. This increase underscores the need for enhanced automation in the shipping and logistics sector due to the escalating volume of orders and a persistent labor shortage. In response, DHL eCommerce in Rotterdam adopted AWL’s RODE (RObotic DEpalletiser) system, integrating advanced 3D camera technology from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH.

University of Maryland researchers have developed a camera mechanism that enhances the visual capabilities of robots, smartphones, and other imaging devices by mimicking the involuntary movements of the human eye. The new system, called the Artificial Microsaccade-Enhanced Event Camera (AMI-EV), was detailed in a study published in the journal Science Robotics in May 2024.

China is significantly increasing its investment in humanoid robot technology, with recent developments highlighting the country’s ambition to integrate these robots into various sectors, including healthcare, education, and public administration.