Revolution in Robotics: How AI is changing factory work!
The University of Freiburg is researching innovative soft robots and AI-supported automation to shape the robotics of the future.

Revolution in Robotics: How AI is changing factory work!
Advancing research in robotics opens exciting perspectives for the development of intelligent machines. A central aspect of this discussion is the concept of embodied intelligence, which comes from philosophy and psychology. This means that intelligent behavior is not produced by the computer alone, but by the physical interaction of a robot with its environment. Current studies, such as those by Milana and her colleagues from Stuttgart, the Netherlands and Belgium, shed light on how soft robots, which are made of soft materials and are based on biological models, implement these principles. Some soft robots are already using physical properties to develop controls that do not require digital microcontrollers, which opens up new avenues in robotics reports the University of Freiburg.
The team from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) has made promising progress in robotics technology. Your Agile Justin robot can now grasp objects that were previously unknown to it and can do so without visual feedback. The use of learning artificial intelligence allows Justin to significantly improve his dexterity. The robot can differentiate between different materials and has acquired the ability to recognize the shape and structure of objects through training with deep reinforcement learning in a simulation informs Elektrotechnik Vogel.
Advances in automated manufacturing
The applications of these technologies extend deep into industrial production. One of the most challenging tasks in robotics is so-called “bin picking” – grabbing and sorting objects from disordered containers. This process has established itself as one of the supreme disciplines in robot development, especially because it replaces traditionally monotonous and physically demanding work, which is ideal for robots states the Fraunhofer Institute.
Artificial intelligence equips robots with the ability to recognize information and independently develop solutions. Algorithms based on neural networks help to recognize complex patterns and relationships in large data sets. There is expected to be a significant need for robotic systems capable of self-configuring to meet various automation needs in the industry.
With the increasing demand for intelligent automation systems, the development of smart industrial robots is also an important topic. The robotics market is forecast to reach a CAGR of 29% through 2029. Initiatives such as the Fraunhofer IPA AI Research Center “Learning Systems and Cognitive Robotics,” founded in 2019, aim to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and industrial applications.
In summary, robotics is not only generating technological innovations, but also fundamental changes in the way we think about intelligence in machines. Advances in robotics act like a double-edged sword, offering both challenges and immense opportunities for the future.