Institute for Robotics & Autonomy
Applied R&D in Robotics and Smart Environments
The University of Tulsa’s Institute for Robotics & Autonomy explores multiple facets of robot design, prototyping, communication, and interaction, including safety and security assurances.
With the growing need for autonomous systems that contribute to an industry’s digital transformation and automation in the form of robots and cooperative robots (cobots), UTulsa researches, designs, prototypes, and tests autonomous hardware and software systems that are self-adaptive, assistive, and capable of recognizing anomalous events. Target systems will be able to respond in real-time to continue complying with operational, safety, and security requirements related to advanced mobility in smart environments.
Our Approach
Research
Build lab to market processes for autonomous robotic and software systems that solve industrial and societal problems, with UTulsa as a worldwide leader in cyber research across broad areas aligned with growing facilities in critical infrastructure, smart installations, network security, robotics, and autonomous systems.
Talent Generation
Generate top-tier talent in robotic technology at UTulsa to meet the ever-increasing business, science, and engineering demands for talent regionally, nationally, and globally.
Commercialize
Scale up the research and development infrastructure to work with businesses on use-inspired problem solving, human-machine interactions, safety and security risks, and producing novel autonomous hardware and software systems for commercialization.
Why Robotics?
Industries across all sectors are rapidly moving towards automation, increasing the demand for robotic technology as well as talent pipelines.
$350B Projected global market size by 2032
$42.6B Industrial robotics market in 2024
40M+ Robots sold between 2016 & 2019
$9B Revenue generated in North America in 2023
Research & Projects
Current Projects
Cooperative Robots for Aging in Place
Our primary project focuses on developing cobots that assist seniors with daily activities. These robots are designed to help with tasks such as gripping objects, maintaining balance, and transitioning from sitting to standing.
Evaluating Robot Capabilities
We evaluate commercial off-the-shelf robotic platforms for their effectiveness in supporting independent living. Our research includes testing mobility, dexterity, perception, and autonomy.
Developing Advanced Autonomy
Autonomy is critical for assistive robots. Our research explores how robots can adapt their behavior based on changes in the environment and user needs, ensuring they provide reliable and effective support.
Publications
Our team has contributed to numerous journals and conferences, sharing our findings and advancements in robotics.
Collaborations
Community Partnerships
We collaborate with community partners to test our robotic solutions in real-world environments. These partnerships help us refine our technology and ensure it meets practical needs.
Industry Engagement
Our center collaborates with industry stakeholders to translate our research into commercial applications. By engaging with the Tulsa Tech Hub consortium, we aim to bring our innovative solutions to market.
Featured Faculty
We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. Whether you are a student, researcher, or industry professional, there are many ways to get involved with the Institute for Robotics & Autonomy.
For questions or more information, contact Rose Gamble, Vice President for Research and Economic Development, at 918-631-2988 or gamble@utulsa.edu.