Formal Aims

Objective of the Network

The overall objective of the network is to ensure that adequate resources and mechanisms are available to enable Europe to become the leading area in robotics.

The means to achieve this objective are fivefold:

1. Research Coordination: To provide the required mechanisms for coordination of EU research on robotics. The coordination will both be in terms of development of a roadmap for the initiative and through mechanisms that facilitate inter-project cooperation.
2. Joint Programme of Research: To provide the resources needed to enable pick-up and evaluation of emerging ideas in the field of robotics. The research programme involves sponsorship of prospective research projects, topical research studies and research ateliers.
3. Education & Training: To provide the required training and education efforts to ensure that there is access to the intellectual capital necessary for the execution of the programme and for subsequent industrial exploitation. This part forms an important component of the effort to spread excellence across the community.
4. Industrial Links: To ensure adequate integration between research institutions and European industries. The set up of links to industry is both in terms of maintenance of close ties to existing industries and more importantly exploration of links to new industrial areas in which robotics might play a role in the future. Consequently, links to SMEs are of major importance.
5. Dissemination: To provide the necessary mechanisms for dissemination of information about robotics in Europe. The dissemination effort is in terms of scientific reporting of results from the initiative, and a general press and media service.

Further information on:

• Objectives,
• Contribution to standards and policy development,
• Potential impact and risk,
• Communication strategy.