The National Robotarium and Freshwave have joined forces to deploy a portable 5G private network within the world-leading centre for robotics and AI. The 5G private network is being used to test robots with the aim of building the innovation centre’s digital capabilities for undertaking commercial projects.
Spot, a quadruped wireless robot created by Boston Dynamics, is the first robot to be used on the portable 5G private network. Spot is being tested to meet an agricultural technology (agritech) need for a National Robotarium customer and will be streaming live video content, doing 3D mapping, and infrared assessments when out in the field. The real-time data Spot collects will be used to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Portable 5G private networks are unlocking exciting benefits in the agritech sector. They provide high-speed, reliable internet access in remote or rural areas where traditional broadband is often limited, enabling better connectivity for devices and systems on the farm. The low latency offered by 5G allows real-time data collection and analysis, supporting immediate decision-making for precision agricultural tasks, such as crop monitoring and equipment adjustments. And they can be easily deployed and moved as needed, making them ideal for seasonal or shifting agricultural operations where fixed infrastructure is impractical. The UK agritech industry is predicted to hit £15.6 billion by 2026.
Steve Maclaren, Chief Operating Officer at the National Robotarium, said: “I’m delighted with what we’ve achieved with Freshwave’s portable 5G private network so far. Robots have the potential to transform the agricultural sector, similar to the way equipment such as tractors did so many years ago, but they need the right networks to power this data-driven approach.
“This portable 5G private network is going to allow us to unlock exciting new applications for our customers. One day we’ll see multiple robots in the field working together on different tasks, from weed removal to nutrient-analysis to pesticide application, creating a co-bot (human and robots working together) workforce to achieve results that simply aren’t possible without harnessing technology. It’s truly a gamechanger and the future of agritech.”
Steve Maclaren, Chief Operating Officer, The National Robotarium
Tom Bennett, CTO at Freshwave, said: “We’re pleased to bring our 5G private network expertise to this project with the National Robotarium. The work the team is doing there is unbelievably cutting-edge and we’re excited to be involved in it.”
Ian Sharp, Head of Business Development at The Scotland 5G Centre, Scotland’s national centre with wide expertise on private 5G network adoption and advanced wireless connectivity, attended a demonstration of Spot on the portable 5G private network at the National Robotarium.
Ian said: “The demonstration of this robot, powered by Freshwave’s portable 5G private network, showcases the transformative potential of 5G to revolutionise agritech. It’s exciting to see how 5G can address the unique challenges of rural and remote areas, making sustainable and efficient farming more achievable.”
Freshwave’s 5G private network can be quickly deployed and the pop-up mast is self-contained and powered by a generator, so it’s completely portable. It uses n77 spectrum Freshwave secured from Ofcom. The network was deployed in a matter of days.
The 5G private network has been deployed under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the National Robotarium and Freshwave. The MOU combines the National Robotarium’s expertise in robotics and artificial intelligence with Freshwave’s success in delivering neutral host-led private networks. The MOU will see the two organisations collaborate in testing robotics on private 5G networks on an ongoing basis.
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Spot-ext-scaled.jpg17032560Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2025-01-20 13:50:112025-01-20 14:29:27Freshwave plants portable 5G in agritech innovation at the National Robotarium
Professor Lemon’s Fellowship was announced in December 2024, alongside 160 other machine learning researchers recognised for their contributions to advancing science and shaping the future of machine learning in Europe. He now joins a prestigious network of outstanding AI scientists, with numerous opportunities for professional exchange, collaborations, workshops and conferences.
Alongside more junior ELLIS Scholars, the ELLIS Fellows participate in cross-national research programmes, which aim to push scientific boundaries connecting top researchers in fields including Human-Centred Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Collaborative AI.
“Joining the ELLIS Network is a privilege, offering the opportunity to collaborate on significant advances in AI science with leading European researchers.” – Professor Oliver Lemon
As academic lead at The National Robotarium, Professor Lemon directs pioneering AI and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) research at Heriot-Watt University, developing generative AI models that advance assistive and conversational robotics.
Recent successes led by Professor Lemon include SPRING (Socially Assistive Robots in Gerontological healthcare) – an international study which successfully trialled AI-powered assistive robots in an elder-care hospital in Paris, catapulting his research team into the global spotlight, with features in The Times newspaper and TIME Magazine, when the findings were published in January 2024.
Professor Lemon said: “Joining the ELLIS Network is a privilege, offering the opportunity to collaborate on significant advances in AI science with leading European researchers.
“Recent breakthroughs in AI, particularly the rapid adoption of generative models, are significantly impacting lives and work. While these advances herald an exciting new era, robust research and innovation are crucial for ensuring a human-centered, beneficial, and safe AI future in Europe.
“Joining the ELLIS Network provides a collaborative environment for connection and exchange, and I look forward to working with fellow inductees to advance scientific excellence in modern AI research”
Nicolò Cesa-Bianchi, Chair of ELLIS Fellows & Fellows Selection Committees, said: “ELLIS Fellows & Scholars are the fabric of the ELLIS network, which they shape and grow through their contributions. This new group of outstanding researchers is joining the network after being selected among over 200 exceptional applicants. Together with them, we will continue to work to keep ELLIS at the forefront of research and innovation in AI and Machine Learning.”
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Lemon-Oliver-landscape-1920px.jpg12801920Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2025-01-17 11:42:512025-01-17 11:45:41Esteemed ELLIS Fellowship for academic co-lead Professor Oliver Lemon
On Monday 13 January, UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, announced the AI Opportunities Action Plan an ambitious, 10-year programme to to capture the opportunities of AI to enhance growth and productivity and create tangible benefits for UK citizens.
In response to the announcement, CEO of the National Robotarium, Stewart Miller said:
“Today’s announcement of the AI Opportunities Action Plan represents a significant step forward for the UK’s technology sector. As the physical manifestation of AI in our world, robotics will be crucial to delivering the Government’s vision for AI-driven economic growth and public service transformation.
“At the National Robotarium, we’re already demonstrating how AI-enabled robotics can transform healthcare delivery, support offshore energy maintenance, and drive manufacturing innovation. The commitment to establish AI Growth Zones and increase compute capacity will be particularly valuable in accelerating the development and deployment of next-generation robotics solutions.
“However, to fully realise the £47 billion annual economic opportunity identified by the UK Government, we must ensure robotics is given equal priority alongside AI software development. The National Robotarium stands ready to support this agenda through our work in developing AI-enabled robotics solutions, training the next generation of robotics engineers, and helping businesses adopt these transformative technologies.
“We look forward to working closely with the Government to ensure robotics plays a central role in delivering the promised decade of national renewal.”
More about the AI Opportunities Action Plan
The AI Opportunities Action Plan, a set of 50 recommendations for government, was led by Matt Clifford CBE, tech entrepreneur and Chair of the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA).
This document has 50 recommendations for government to:
grow the UK’s AI sector
drive adoption of AI across the economy to boost growth
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/robotics-AI-stock.jpg5651000Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2025-01-13 16:05:202025-01-13 16:05:20Our response to The AI Opportunities Action Plan
In an opinion piece, originally published by The Herald on 13 December 2024, Business Development Manager Lisa Farrell outlines how robotic technologies can be adopted to address the NHS crisis.
As the UK Government conducts its consultation on a 10-year plan for the NHS’s future, the discussion inevitably focuses on funding pressures and waiting lists. Yet in this vital debate about modernising our health service, we risk missing a transformative opportunity: robotics. This technology offers two crucial benefits – supporting our overwhelmed healthcare workers while simultaneously building a powerful new economic sector, with Scotland at its heart.
The UK’s robotics sector lags behind other G7 countries, but Scotland’s integrated health service and world-class universities, combined with an emerging robotics cluster, give us distinct advantages to change this trajectory. The National Robotarium in Edinburgh is already demonstrating this potential – developing technologies that could both support our NHS and create high-value jobs.
..we must think bigger. By positioning NHS Scotland as an “informed customer” for robotics, we could provide the secure market needed for Scottish manufacturers to scale up and innovate.
The global healthcare robotics market is projected to reach £24 billion by 2035. With strategic investment and coordinated action, Scotland could capture a significant share of this growing market while simultaneously improving our health service. This aligns with both the NHS’s needs and the UK’s broader economic interests – as a recent report from the Tony Blair Institute noted, robotics will increasingly become “the arms and legs of AI” in delivering real-world impact.
Consider the practical impacts. Automated porters are already operating in Glasgow hospitals, moving linen and equipment, and freeing up staff time. Robotic pharmacy assistants are supporting medication management, meaning humans can offer consultations and chronic medication service reviews rather than doing admin. And in Lanarkshire, social robots are being pioneered to support independent living and reduce pressure on staff. These early examples show Scotland’s potential to lead in healthcare innovation.
But we must think bigger. By positioning NHS Scotland as an “informed customer” for robotics, we could provide the secure market needed for Scottish manufacturers to scale up and innovate. This would create a virtuous cycle – as healthcare providers benefit from improved efficiency, manufacturers gain the confidence to invest in research and development.
The prize is substantial. With NHS Scotland’s annual budget exceeding £18 billion, even modest efficiency improvements through robotics could generate significant savings for reinvestment. More importantly, we could create thousands of high-skilled jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and technology, while freeing up existing healthcare staff to focus on patient care.
This isn’t just about healthcare technology though – it’s about economic transformation. By developing expertise in healthcare robotics, Scotland could export both products and knowledge globally. Our universities could attract international talent and investment. Our manufacturers could build new revenue streams.
However, this opportunity requires coordinated action between NHS Scotland, the Scottish Government, manufacturers, and research institutions. We need strategic investment in a robotics supply chain, supportive regulation that ensures patient safety while encouraging innovation, and skills development for the workforce of tomorrow.
The foundations are being laid – now we need the vision and commitment to build on them. With the right support and investment, Scotland could help pioneer how robotics transforms healthcare delivery across the UK while building a powerful new economic sector. The alternative is watching other countries seize these opportunities while we import their solutions. The choice – and the opportunity – is ours.
Originally published in The Manufacturer on 9 December 2024, Stewart Miller, CEO of the National Robotarium, explains why the recently announced Industrial Strategy will be pivotal in supporting the UK’s potential to lead the global robotics revolution.
Imagine a near future where autonomous robots maintain vast offshore wind farms, where precision manufacturing systems collaborate seamlessly with skilled technicians, and where British-made robotics lead global innovation in healthcare, energy, and industrial automation. This future isn’t decades away – it’s within our grasp. But seizing it requires urgent action.
As the government sets out its vision for Britain’s industrial future, the stakes for manufacturing could not be higher. The sector currently accounts for 10% of GDP – increasing this to 15% would add £142bn to the economy. Achieving this transformation, however, requires modernising our manufacturing capabilities, particularly in robotics and automation where Britain lags dangerously behind global competitors.
With just 119 robots per 10,000 manufacturing employees, the UK has recorded the lowest robotics adoption in the G7, trailing not only traditional competitors but emerging economies like Mexico and Turkey. While Asia installs 73% of new industrial robots and the EU maintains steady growth, the UK’s modest 3% growth rate signals concerning trends for our future competitiveness.
A missed opportunity
The economic stakes are enormous. The global robotics technology market is projected to surge to £283bn by 2032, representing a transformative opportunity that the UK must seize to remain competitive. Goldman Sachs forecasts humanoid robots becoming economically viable for factories by 2027, while countries like Australia and China are already racing ahead with ambitious national robotics strategies. Without decisive action now, Britain risks missing this opportunity entirely.
The implications for UK manufacturing are profound. Currently facing 70,000 sector vacancies, manufacturers are struggling not just with labour shortages but with reshoring opportunities that could strengthen domestic supply chains. Advanced robotics could enable this reshoring while creating thousands of high-skilled jobs across development, integration, maintenance, and manufacturing support roles.
Yet a critical mistake in current policy is subsuming robotics under artificial intelligence initiatives. While AI is crucial, robotics requires distinct strategic focus and investment. The technology’s physical nature demands specialised facilities for development, testing, and manufacturing – infrastructure that can’t be created through software alone. A standalone robotics strategy would help unlock the full potential of this transformative technology.
Accelerating innovation
The solution lies in developing comprehensive robotics clusters that integrate research, manufacturing, and skills development. Examples like the National Robotarium in Edinburgh demonstrate how dedicated facilities can accelerate innovation, with such centres becoming home to hundreds of robotics professionals, housing successful startups, supporting industry-funded projects, and engaging thousands in robotics education.
The vision for expansion includes ten new regional centres, each supporting specific industrial clusters and manufacturing capabilities. In the Northeast, a specialised centre could further develop offshore robotics capabilities, supporting both renewable energy and the oil and gas sector’s transition. The Northwest could leverage its medical technology strengths to pioneer healthcare robotics, from surgical systems to sterile manufacturing processes.
In the Midlands, a specialised centre could leverage the region’s automotive heritage to pioneer advanced manufacturing robotics, building on decades of expertise in production line automation. The South could build on its strengths in aerospace and defence, developing robotics for precision manufacturing and testing. Each centre would combine research facilities, testing capabilities, and training programmes to create innovation ecosystems serving the specific needs of their local industrial bases.
A network of this size and depth requires comprehensive support. A coordinated skills strategy must ensure the UK develops expertise to design, programme, maintain, and operate advanced robotics systems. This includes embedding robotics in education from primary school onwards, creating new vocational qualifications in robotics manufacturing, and integrating robotics modules into existing qualifications across health and social care, construction, agriculture, energy, and engineering.
The Industrial Strategy must also address procurement barriers, particularly within large state-funded organisations like the NHS, where complex pathways slow adoption of innovative solutions. Reform should include specific provisions for robotics adoption, similar to environmental impact assessments in public tenders. Additionally, cybersecurity frameworks must be established to ensure robust protection as robotics systems become more interconnected and integral to critical infrastructure.
As the Tony Blair Institute’s recent report on ‘next-wave robotics’ emphasises: “The challenge of responding is so urgent, the risk of falling behind other countries so great, and the opportunities so exciting, that nothing less will do.” The UK, with our track record in innovation and engineering excellence, has the potential to lead the global robotics revolution – but scaling these capabilities and realising our collective ambition requires bold policy vision and decisive government action.
We must choose: become an active producer of robotics technology, creating high-skilled jobs and driving economic growth across our regions, or remain a passive consumer as other nations seize the opportunities ahead. The evidence and urgency are clear. The Industrial Strategy must provide the framework for Britain to become a true robotics nation, turning our world-class innovation into world-leading industrial capability.
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_804546185-scaled.jpeg18742560Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2024-12-09 10:46:232024-12-09 10:59:04Why 2025’s Industrial Strategy must close Britain’s manufacturing robotics gap
The 2025-26 Scottish Budget was announced on 4 December 2024, which included a commitment to invest £321 million pounds in Scotland’s enterprise agencies supporting emerging tech, including AI and robotics.
Stewart Miller, CEO of the National Robotarium and leading voice in UK Robotics, has said in response:
“This significant £321 million investment from the Scottish Government to support emerging tech represents a critical step in securing Scotland’s position at the forefront of the global robotics revolution. As demonstrated by our pioneering work at the #NationalRobotarium, robotics and AI technologies are already transforming industries from healthcare to offshore energy, and this additional commitment will accelerate Scotland’s ability to compete in a market projected to reach £223 billion by 2032. With the UK currently lagging behind other G7 nations in robotics adoption, this investment sends a powerful signal about Scotland’s ambition to lead rather than follow in the next wave of technological innovation.
“The timing of this support is crucial. Our experience shows that when we combine world-class research facilities with industry collaboration and skills development, we create powerful economic multipliers that generate high-value jobs and attract international investment. At the National Robotarium, we’ve already demonstrated how strategic investment in robotics can catalyse innovation, supporting successful startups and industry-funded projects that address critical challenges across health and social care, energy, and manufacturing. This new funding will help ensure Scotland can scale these successes, building the robust domestic capability needed to compete in the global marketplace while solving some of society’s most pressing challenges through technological innovation.”
“This investment aligns perfectly with the strategic vision for Scotland’s robotics economy that Robotics Scotland, a developing industry cluster organisation that supports Scotland’s robotics sector, has presented to the Scottish Government. With this commitment, we can now work to fully realise this vision, ensuring Scotland captures and maximises the transformative economic and societal benefits that robotics will bring to our nation.”
Stewart’s comments were featured in round-ups of the Budget by The Scotsman and FutureScot on 5 December.
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Ben-Glasgow-109.jpg13632048Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2024-12-05 12:45:232024-12-05 17:28:30Our response to the 2025-26 Scottish Budget announcement:
To mark National Engineering Day (13 November 2024), we have been speaking to our Robotics Engineers about their career paths, engineering role models and what a typical day is like at the National Robotarium…
Hsing-Yu Chen
Who’s your engineering role model?
One of my key role models in engineering is Morris Chang, the founder of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). His technical expertise, leadership and vision have revolutionised the semiconductor industry and made a huge impact on global technology innovation. His emphasis on long-term thinking, collaboration, and focus on excellence in manufacturing processes continues to inspire me in my own work.
What in your mind is an example of good engineering?
An example of engineering that truly inspires me is the development of reusable rockets. This breakthrough in space technology shows us the power of dreaming big and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The ability to reuse rockets—once thought to be impossible—has the potential to completely reshape the aerospace industry, opening up new possibilities for space travel and exploration.”
What is typical day like as a Robotics Engineer?
A typical day for a robotics engineer begins with problem-solving, addressing challenges and issues related to the robots they are developing. This entails brainstorming innovative solutions to optimize robot performance, troubleshooting both hardware and software components, conducting experiments to validate the robots’ functionality, and delving into data analysis. Given the collaborative nature of their work, engineers often engage in ongoing communication with team members and clients.
What skills are required to be a good engineer?
Beyond technical proficiency, being a good engineer relies on essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills, enabling the identification and resolution of intricate engineering challenges. Equally critical is a commitment to continuous learning and stay attuned with this rapidly evolving field, ensuring that engineers can adapt to new technologies and innovate effectively.
How does engineering improve people’s lives?
Robotics engineering plays a pivotal role in enhancing people’s lives in numerous ways. For instance, the creation of surgical robots and prosthetic limbs improves the quality of medical treatments and enhances the lives of patients. Autonomous vehicles not only increase transportation efficiency but also enhance road safety. Assistive robots simplify daily tasks, making life more convenient and accessible for individuals. These advancements underscore the transformative impact of robotics engineering on our daily existence and overall well-being.
How can engineering help us live and/or work more sustainably?
Robotic engineering offers substantial potential to enhance sustainable living and working in various domains. This can be achieved by automating industrial processes to boost efficiency, optimising resource utilisation to reduce consumption and lower carbon emissions, improving recycling rates through precise sorting, and monitoring environmental changes. These technologies have the potential to create a more environmentally friendly and resilient world.
Hari Lakshman
Who are your engineering role models?
The reason I pursued an engineering career was after watching an animated video about Nikola Tesla’s life. Reading about his work, dedication, and passion to keep inventing things inspired me to follow in his footsteps. Another inspiration in my life is Henry Ford, who taught me so much about tech business, optimisation, and efficiency.”
Can you give an example of good engineering that inspires you?
The pyramids are the first engineering marvel that blew my mind; it’s exhausting even to imagine the methods ancient people might have used to build such a magnificent structure. Another marvel is the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which enables scientists to collect data and images for space research. This incredible piece of engineering has revolutionised space science research.”
What does the role of Robotics Engineer involve?
Robotics engineers involve themselves in various fields of engineering. It is always a big learning curve, sometimes building robots feels like creating a human child. We have knowledge in coding, software development, and designing prototypes, which involves an extensive understanding of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and control systems. We try and implement cutting-edge machine learning and AI algorithms to make the robot more intelligent and more efficient. For me, I’m still learning lots and lots to become a fine-tuned robotics engineer.
What skills are required to be a good engineer?
Robotics engineers should have skills such as critical thinking and design thinking, programming, active learning, teamwork, safety skills and leadership qualities.
How does engineering improve people’s lives?
Engineering helps to improve people’s lives in every possible way: economically, and ethically, it helps to improve quality of life, solve societal problems, fight against climate change and more. At the National Robotarium, we use our engineering skills to build robots that can help people with physically or mentally challenging tasks, and improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Ronnie Smith
What is typical day like as a Robotics Engineer?
What you spend most of your time on day to day depends on your own role within the team. Some engineers can spend most of their day at a computer doing design or programming, while others might do largely hands on work building, extending, debugging, and maintaining robots. Since we tend to work on multiple projects at once, most days start by figuring out what to prioritise. For me, a typical day might involve some proposal writing, development work, project team meetings, and monitoring/debugging some of the robots we are testing as part of ongoing projects.
What skills are required to be a good engineer?
Since robotics is such an inter-disciplinary field, I think there is no fixed set of skills to be a robotics engineer. I think a good robotics isn’t necessarily someone who is an expert in all aspects of robotics, but rather someone who has their own strengths in a few core areas and who is interested in learning about the whole robotic system to the point where they can understand how everything fits together. This applies to myself, as I come from mainly a software background, but am keen to use my time at the National Robotarium to learn and become a more “rounded” robotics engineer.
How does engineering improve people’s lives?
Most of the time, when engineers are working on a problem it is in the name of improving our comfort, efficiency, safety, or our general quality of life. Robotics is a field which has the potential to touch on all of these aspects. In my previous role as a PhD student, we worked on assistive robotics and technology for older adults. Through user engagement we worked to understand the ways in which collaborative robotics can enable individuals to live in their own home for longer by automating aspects of daily tasks that might otherwise be impossible to complete alone.
How can engineering help us live and/or work more sustainably?
One of the main ways that robots can aid with sustainability is by being more efficient than the solutions that came before. What is meant by efficiency will of course differ across domains, but for example in manufacturing this might mean process efficiency which increases hourly output for the same or less energy. On the other hand, in agriculture it could be that increased precision in turn leads to increased efficiency, e.g., more accurate and targeted spraying of crops conserves resources.
Can you give an example of good engineering that inspires you?
I would look to the semiconductor industry and the advancement of the transistor-based processor over the past several decades as an example of inspiring engineering. Computers today are using billions of tiny transistors, manufactured at nanometre scale, to perform trillions of mathematical operations every second. This achievement has relied on back-to-back advancements and innovation across materials science, lithography, quantum physics, and of course computer and electronics engineers. To me, this is a shining example of human ingenuity and our ability to work together on a large scale to create technology that is so pervasive and seamless that we are able to take it for granted.
Rahul Ramachandran
Who are your engineering role models?
The Wright brothers and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam are two of my biggest role models. The Wright brothers’ achievement in creating the first successful powered airplane inspires me with their relentless pursuit of innovation and their ability to overcome doubt and failure. Similarly, Dr. Kalam’s perseverance and contributions to ISRO, especially his leadership in missions like India’s Mars Orbiter Mission, remind me of the importance of vision and hard work in achieving groundbreaking results. Both have shown me that with determination and passion, it’s possible to change the course of history.
Can you give an example of good engineering that inspires you?
One piece of engineering that really inspires me is the Moog synthesizer. What I love about it is how it simplified the complex technology of earlier electronic instruments, making it easier for musicians to use. The design is so elegant, and the way it combines innovation with simplicity was groundbreaking at the time. The Moog didn’t just change the way music was made; it made a complex tool feel accessible, showing how thoughtful design can open up new possibilities and spark creativity in unexpected ways.
What does the role of Robotics Engineer involve?
Robotics is an interdisciplinary field and because of that robotics engineer’s role depends on one’s engineering background, be it mechanical, electrical, computer science, sociology or applied physics. For example, a robotics engineer with a degree in Mechanical Engineering would work on the design and modelling of robot mechanics, whereas one with a background in electrical and electronics engineering would develop the robot’s battery management system and its sensors and actuators.
What skills are required to be a good engineer?
I believe that to be a good engineer, you must be able to understand the need for an engineering solution to any given problem. It’s not the “what” and “how” but the “why” that comes first.
Be curious, take inspiration from nature and question EVERYTHING! Analytical thinking is very important as is the ability to communicate effectively in a collaborative environment. It is helpful to have an engineering degree, but it is not always necessary if you have the proper knowledge and practical skills.”
How does engineering improve people’s lives?
We live in a world where everything we see has been engineered for us to live a better life, especially in today’s modern digital world, where everything is data-driven. We now have self-driving cars and text-to-speech solutions such as Okay Google, Alexa and Siri which enable us to make calls and play songs using voice commands.
At the National Robotarium, we are developing solutions such as unmanned underwater robots to undertake the inspection of offshore turbines, which is currently being done by deep-sea scuba divers. We are also improving the quality of life for many people doing repetitive tasks in factories by developing solutions for factory automation, which will enable people to safely undertake less repetitive and more skilled tasks side-by-side with robots.
The National Robotarium is supporting the development of new artificial intelligence and control systems that could enable underwater robots to operate autonomously in turbulent seas, potentially revolutionising maintenance and repair tasks for offshore wind turbines.
The UNITE project, an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership programme led by Heriot-Watt University in collaboration with Imperial College London, is creating new artificial intelligence and control systems in partnership with geo-data specialist Fugro and Heriot-Watt University spinout Frontier Robotics, supported by the National Robotarium, the UK’s centre for robotics and AI.
“The UNITE project was co-created with Fugro to develop the next generation of autonomy-enabled robotics solutions for offshore inspection and maintenance. We are especially interested in subsea inspection and manipulation in dynamic environments where existing solutions cannot be used.”
– Yvan Petillot, Professor of Robotics at Heriot Watt University and National Robotarium academic lead
“Our trials are showing promising results in enabling underwater robots to maintain stable contact with offshore structures in challenging conditions,” said David Morrison, Project Manager at the National Robotarium. “If successful, the technology could transform offshore wind maintenance, reducing fuel consumption of maintenance missions by up to 97% – from 7,000 litres per day to just 200 litres. This could significantly lower both operational costs and the carbon footprint of maintenance.”
The project demonstrates the National Robotarium’s role in bringing together established companies and emerging innovators. Through its laboratories and testing infrastructure, the facility enables rapid development and validation of commercial solutions. The technology being developed could reduce standard data collection time from three weeks to just three hours.
“With the exponential growth of offshore infrastructure, we need to look towards deploying more AI, robots and autonomy to enable the industry to take advantage of new technologies to work even more efficiently and to scale with the global demand,” said Jonatan Scharff Willners, CEO of Frontier Robotics. “It is great to work closely with Heriot-Watt University, the National Robotarium and Fugro to tackle these highly important problems, which are key components if we want to transition to renewable energy using a greener and more sustainable supply-chain.”
Mark Bruce, Global Product Manager of Next Generation ROV Systems at Fugro, said: “Our USVs and eROV’s deliver unmatched efficiency, hugely reduced environmental impact, and most importantly they eliminate human risk offshore by removing people from harm’s way. Our remote operations centres have been operating for ten years, during which time we have refined and improved our solutions.”
The National Robotarium provides companies with access to laboratories, testing facilities, and specialised equipment, alongside support for commercialisation. Companies working at the facility can connect with researchers, access funding opportunities, and engage with the UK’s broader robotics ecosystem.
The £1.4 million Underwater Intervention for Offshore Renewable Energies (UNITE) project is led by Professor Yvan Petillot from Heriot-Watt University, with Dr. Sen Wang leading Imperial College London’s contributions, and is funded through an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership, part of UK Research and Innovation.
The National Robotarium welcomes contact from energy companies and technology providers interested in exploring the commercial applications of this technology. Email nationalrobotarium@hw.ac.uk or contact our Business Development team.
https://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Surface-vessel-and-autonomous-underwater-robot-undergoing-trials-in-Heriot-Watt-Universitys-wave-tank-facility-GoPro-stills.jpg15362048Louise Jackhttp://thenationalrobotarium.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotarium.pngLouise Jack2024-10-24 00:01:272024-10-24 09:54:06National Robotarium accelerates industry development of wind farm robotics
In a forward-looking vision for Scotland’s future, the recent Programme for Government highlighted the critical role of advanced technologies in driving our economic growth and enhancing our public services. At the heart of this vision, the National Robotarium was specifically acknowledged as a driver of innovation – signalling the government’s recognition of the role that robotics will play in Scotland’s technological and economic future.
This acknowledgment comes at a pivotal time for Scotland. As we strive to boost our GDP and increase productivity, the role of cutting-edge technologies like robotics becomes increasingly important. The government’s commitment to investing in innovation and advanced manufacturing capabilities demonstrates a readiness to back transformative initiatives that can shape our economic landscape.
The global robotics market is poised for explosive growth; expected to surge from $72 billion in 2022 to an estimated $283 billion by 2032. This represents an unprecedented opportunity for economic growth and job creation. Scotland, with its strong tradition of entrepreneurship coupled with its engineering excellence, is well-positioned to seize this opportunity.
However, to fully capitalise on this robotics revolution, Scotland must evolve from being merely an innovator to becoming a manufacturer. This shift is essential if we are to reverse the current trend where the UK lags behind in robotics adoption, with only a 3% growth compared to global leaders like China, which saw a 5% increase of nearly 300,000 robot installations in 2022 alone.
The path forward is clear: we need to establish comprehensive robotics clusters in Scotland – not just centres for research and development, but complete ecosystems that serve all supply chain needs for making robots. These clusters would bring together academia, industry, and government to foster collaboration, drive commercialisation, and create high-skilled jobs.
The Scottish Government has already taken steps in this direction. The recent announcement of a £35 million Manufacturing Property Challenge Programme by Scottish Enterprise is a prime example. This initiative aims to create 1,000,000 sq ft of new industrial space, equivalent to 14 football pitches, to increase innovation and Scotland’s attractiveness to inward investors.
This investment is crucial, as Scotland’s manufacturing sector currently employs around 170,000 people and is responsible for more than half of the country’s international exports. By creating new, high-quality manufacturing spaces, we can attract more high-value manufacturing to Scotland, driving economic growth and increasing productivity.
The benefits of investing in robotics clusters are already evident. As the National Robotarium marks its second anniversary, it has become a hub of fresh ideas, hosting hundreds of professionals and students, incubating exciting start-ups, and driving forward industry-funded projects. Imagine the impact if we could scale this model across Scotland, and indeed the UK, adding robust manufacturing capabilities.
The potential applications of robotics are vast and varied. In healthcare, for instance, researchers at NHS Lanarkshire’s Blantyre LIFE care facility are testing a ‘social robot’ named ARI, designed to aid patients recovering from critical injuries. This project aims to support the self-management of rehabilitation by patients, showcasing how robotics can complement and enhance human expertise in healthcare settings. The collaboration between roboticists and healthcare professionals at Blantyre LIFE demonstrates the potential for robotics to address real-world challenges in our healthcare system.
In the energy sector, our partnership with Fugro on the UNITE project aims to revolutionise the maintenance of offshore wind turbines, improving worker safety and operational efficiency. This directly supports our renewable energy ambitions while creating new, high-skilled jobs.
The success of the National Robotarium in Edinburgh provides a blueprint for what could be achieved not just in Scotland but across the whole of the UK. Our vision extends beyond Scotland’s borders, proposing a network of ten ‘Robotarium’ facilities throughout the UK, each specialising in different sectors and capabilities. This UK-wide network would create a powerful ecosystem of robotics innovation and manufacturing, positioning Britain as a global leader in the field.
To fully realise these opportunities, we need a two-pronged approach: first, building on the Scottish Government’s initiatives here in Scotland, and second, advocating for a coordinated strategy across the entire UK.
In Scotland, our immediate focus should be on investing in advanced manufacturing facilities specifically geared towards robotics production, developing targeted training programmes to build the necessary workforce skills, and creating incentives for businesses to locate their robotics manufacturing operations here. The triple helix of academia, industry, and government in Scotland is crucial to driving innovation and commercialisation, as is supporting Scottish robotics companies in accessing global markets.
Simultaneously, we must work with partners across the UK to replicate and adapt these successful Scottish initiatives, creating a cohesive national strategy that leverages the strengths of each region.
By taking these steps, we can become not just a consumer of robotics technology, but a producer and exporter.
The Scottish Government has shown foresight in recognising the importance of “deep tech” and advanced manufacturing capabilities. Now, we need to build on this vision with concrete action – creating an environment where robotics innovation can thrive and where that innovation can be turned into tangible products manufactured right here in Scotland.
As other nations race ahead in robotics adoption and manufacturing, time is of the essence. Scotland has the talent, the research capabilities, and the innovative spirit. What we need now is the manufacturing infrastructure and supportive policy environment to match.
By embracing this opportunity, we can ensure that Scotland is not just a bystander in the robotics revolution, but a participant and leader. As the UK government refines its industrial strategy, it must recognise what the Scottish Government already has: robotics is not just the future, it’s the present, and it’s an opportunity we cannot afford to miss. The robots are coming – it’s time for Scotland to build them.
This article originally featured in The Herald HQ Business Supplement on 3 October 2024.
Ameca, one of the world’s most advanced humanoids, will take to the stage for a one-on-one interview with nationally decorated author Jeanette Winterson, as part of the Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI) official launch event.
The robot, recently installed at The National Robotarium, a world-leading centre for robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) at Heriot-Watt University, will share its thoughts on the rapid advancement of AI in society and how people’s lives, work and learning will be impacted by the development of these technologies.
Also speaking at the event, taking place 7 October, is the National Robotarium’s Head of Robotics, Dr Ingo Keller, who will join a panel discussion with Jeanette and Chair JL Williams for a deep-dive into the future of robots and how human trust and relationships robots will evolve as the technology gets increasingly more sophisticated.
‘Jeanette Winterson: In Conversation with Ameca’ kicks-off EFI’s new season of events, Learning Curves, its first since renovation work was completed on the building. It also marks the first joint event delivered by EFI and The National Robotarium, both partner hubs of the Data-Driven Innovation initiative, funded as part of the Edinburgh and South-East Scotland City Region Deal to make the region the data capital of Europe.
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