CRADLE (Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-lasting Environments) will research new technologies for challenging and heavily regulated industry sectors including space, nuclear decommissioning, energy generation and urban infrastructure.
The centre will be co-funded to a total value of $11m over five years by Jacobs, Manchester University and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s (EPSRC) Prosperity Partnerships program, which fosters links between academia and industry.
“Securing this prestigious Prosperity Partnerships grant allows Jacobs and [Manchester University] 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 is already a core strength of Jacobs’ work in the energy and space sectors and this research collaboration 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, which is investing $4.6m, will have the opportunity to commercialise technologies developed at CRADLE to bring a step-change impact to clients in urban infrastructure, energy generation, nuclear power, decommissioning and space exploration.
“CRADLE will allow the university’s recently established Manchester Centre for Robotics and AI to build a relationship with one of the leading organisations involved in applied robotics, helping us to progress our fundamental research in this area and to deliver impact from the robotic and AI systems that we are developing,” said Centre Co-director Professor Barry Lennox.
CRADLE’s research remit covers mechatronics, software and how communities and regulators will engage with future robotic systems. Jacobs staff will support 12 PhD students in conducting research and performing prototype demonstrations at Manchester University and Jacobs’ robotics laboratories in Warrington.
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