‘Several research groups, faculties, and master's programmes wanted a physical space where knowledge could be shared and ideas for collaboration could emerge,’ says Van Roon. ‘There were already other robotics facilities spread across the faculties, but no shared space bringing everything together.’ That will change on 10 November with the opening of the Joint Robotics Lab.
Eighty new robotics students
The lab will be used by research groups including Biomechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, Robotics Mechatronics, Human Media Interaction (HMI), and Manufacturing Systems. ‘The space is needed because robotics is popular,’ says Van Roon. ‘We welcomed around eighty new robotics students this year.’
To avoid confusion with the Robotics Centre, which was unveiled three years ago, Van Roon explains the distinction: ‘The centre is the umbrella organisation and central point of contact, tasked with raising the profile of UT robotics nationally and internationally. The lab is the physical space where it all happens.’
Joining forces
Through the Robotics Centre, the various research groups already pool financial resources to purchase advanced equipment, including two new humanoid robots. ‘You might well see them walking around campus before long,’ Van Roon hopes.
The lab, which will be open five days a week, is housed in the former Virtual Reality Lab and consists of a shared space divided into several sections. Master's students can carry out practical work here, while researchers can teach classes. According to Van Roon, it has been designed in a ‘pop-up style’, ‘so that it can easily be relocated during the renovation of the Horst building. We also reused a lot of furniture, which helped keep costs down.’
Official opening
The lab will officially open on 10 November with a programme including a demonstration of a humanoid robot and a lecture by assistant professor Chiara Gabellieri, who recently secured a €1.5 million ERC grant for her research into flexible drones. ‘You might not immediately think of it, but that's robotics too,’ says Van Roon.
