Centre for Robotics Research
The mission of the Centre for Robotics Research (CORE) is to develop world-leading solutions to critical challenges faced in society where robot-centric approaches can improve outcomes. Projects largely revolve around medical themes, while recent research efforts have expanded that remit to include horticulture/agriculture, manufacturing and humanitarian demining. The centre brings together specialised expertise in innovative sensing and manipulation technologies, reconfigurable and flexible metamorphic robotic platforms, variable stiffness and soft-body materials, dynamic control methodologies for multi-robot teams and progressive modes of human-robot integration. Many of the activities emphasize interaction with people, from haptic controllers to surgical instrumentation to prosthetic devices and rehabilitation equipment, incorporating machine learning, trajectory planning and shared decision making to provide adaptive interfaces that improve performance over time. The centre has a long history of funding from EU, EPSRC and industry grants, as well as work with charities and government agencies.