Human Centered Automation

The Competence Alliance for Human-Centric Automation between Bielefeld University and the Fraunhofer IOSB-INA in Lemgo unites the fundamental research of Bielefeld University with the application-oriented, industry-related research of Fraunhofer IOSB-INA. This combination of expertise enables the development of innovative and practical solutions for industry, for example in the field of collaborative robotics (cobots) and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in automation, and opens up new research perspectives and potential for the participating scientists.

The current challenges posed by increasing digitalization, the demand for sustainable production and product strategies, and the shortage of skilled workers necessitate innovative work processes and environments characterized by high flexibility and efficiency, as well as the application of AI methods. At Bielefeld University, within the socio-technical field, the design principles and concepts of intelligent, interactive systems are researched based on current advances in machine learning and cognitive robotics. The Fraunhofer IOSB-INA in Lemgo plays a key role in the development of innovations in industrial automation, combined with the transfer of scientific findings to industry. Current leaps in innovation, such as those related to generative AI, are leading to novel socio-technical systems that synergistically combine the strengths of human and technological agents. Application of AI, robotics and automation methods from a human-centered perspective We refer to this as human-centered automation.