Robot Ami inspires in Cottbus: Experience future technology up close!

Robot Ami inspires in Cottbus: Experience future technology up close!

On August 25, 2025, the BTU (Brandeburg Technical University) Cottbus-Senftenberg was transformed into a lively innovation platform under the sign of the FuTuRe mission. The aim of the event was to present technologies in the field of aerospace and robotic innovations. Particular focus was on the humanoid robot “Ami” from the DLR (German Aerospace Center) School Lab, which impressed the Federal Minister for Research, Technology and Space, Dorothee Bär. BTU reports that visitors were surprised by Ami's communication skills and potential for application.

Particularly touching was the encounter between a deaf couple and Ami, who was able to read lips. An 8th grade student, Leonardo, expressed his wish to see Ami again and hoped for a school internship at the DLR School Lab. The focus of the offer is on discovering the fundamentals of robotics and the practical application of mathematics, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science and artificial intelligence.

Humanoid Robots: Development and Application

The development of humanoid robots is becoming increasingly important in Germany, especially in Cottbus. Robots are transforming from rigid industrial arms to interactive machines. Xpert.digital reports that the DLR has a key function in robotics research. This includes research into collaborative robots (cobots) that can interact safely and intuitively with people.

A central goal of DLR research is to promote the design and acceptance of robots for society. The interactions with Ami, which are described as natural and intuitive, are based on the concept of Embodied Artificial Intelligence (Embodied AI). The German premiere of “Ami” took place on March 27, 2025 in the DLR School Lab. This event aimed to raise public awareness of robotics and promote STEM careers.

• Ami kann menschliche Mimik und Gestik erkennen und darauf reagieren.
• Der Roboter fokussiert sich auf soziale Interaktion.
• Künstliche Intelligenz ermöglicht es Ami, komplexe Aufgaben zu bewältigen.

The use of humanoid robots in schools aims to get students excited about STEM subjects and encourage them to do research. From the 2025/26 school year, students will have the opportunity to work with Ami and other humanoid robots in the DLR School Lab. Fraunhofer IPA delivers further insights into the responsible development of humanoid robots and their potential uses in production, logistics and in supporting people with special needs.

The impressive event in Cottbus not only discussed technology, but also the emotional connection that humanoid robots can create. The BTU took the opportunity to inform visitors about future technologies such as environmentally friendly heat storage and electric flying. In addition to humanoid robots and robotic animals, various application scenarios were presented that illustrated the advances and possibilities in robotics.

Research and future developments

The BTU School Lab teaches students not only technical knowledge, but also ethical issues regarding AI and robotics. Older students deal intensively with human-machine interaction, which is important for the future development of humanoid robots. The results of current studies on robotics should not only benefit industry, but also provide society with an understanding of how humanoid robots can enrich people's lives.

The BTU is planning a new robotics program for interested students from the 25/26 school year, which appeals to young people's enthusiasm for experimentation and curiosity and allows them to actively immerse themselves in the world of robotics. These developments could make a significant contribution to shaping our technological society in the future.