Rapidly increasing automation across all sectors is fueling a huge need for robotic technology. In 2024, the industrial robotics market is pegged at $42.6 billion. By 2032, the global market for all forms of robotics could reach $350 billion. Meeting this demand requires personnel capable of designing, building, and testing next-generation components and systems.
As a swiftly emerging leader in this exciting arena, The University of Tulsa has launched the Institute for Robotics & Autonomy. Bringing together faculty, research and technical staff, and students from across several disciplines and through collaborations with community and industry partners, the institute explores robot design, prototyping, communication, and interaction, including safety and security.
“Our mission is founded on three core activities: research, talent generation, and commercialization,” said Rose Gamble, UTulsa’s vice president for research and economic development.
The institute’s research focuses on developing lab-to-market processes for autonomous robotic and software systems that solve industrial and societal problems. Many of these investigations leverage UTulsa’s strengths in cyber research.
“Congratulations to The University of Tulsa’s new Institute for Robotics & Autonomy. It was my pleasure to work with the university to secure them the necessary funds for the facility. I’m excited to see the innovation that results from the great students and faculty,” said U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Oklahoma, whose support was instrumental in gaining appropriations for the initiative.
To educate future talent, the institute’s interdisciplinary faculty and research scientists actively involve students in research, prototyping, and testing. For example, students in mechanical engineering, computer science, kinesiology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity will be part of the quest to develop cooperative robots – “cobots” – to assist older adults with tasks such as gripping objects, maintaining balance, and transitioning from sitting to standing.
Another related project, which also includes students, evaluates the effectiveness of commercial, off-the-shelf robotic platforms for supporting independent living. A third research stream addresses the question of autonomy by examining how robots can adapt their behavior based on changes in environments and user needs.
“We have learned a great deal about interactions with people and the environment through our experimentation with robotic dogs in our research and development work with the U.S. Army Corps’ Engineer Research and Development Center,” said Professor John Hale, chair of the Tandy School of Computer Science and principal investigator on a project that includes studying the use of robots in smart environments.
“In all our endeavors, we collaborate with community partners to test our robotic solutions in real-world environments,” noted Gamble. “This exchange of ideas enables us to refine our technology and ensure it meets users’ practical requirements.”
The institute also joins forces with industry stakeholders to bring innovative solutions to market. At the center of this engagement is participation in the pathbreaking Tulsa Hub for Equitable & Trustworthy Autonomy, one of the 31 Technology and Innovation Hubs designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
Are you a student, researcher, or industry professional interested in joining the UTulsa Institute for Robotics & Autonomy? Begin by emailing gamble@utulsa.edu or calling 918-631-2988.