Poland is home to a variety of leading robotics research institutions and labs, each contributing to the advancement of robotics through innovative research and development. These institutions are at the forefront of robotics technology, driving progress in industrial automation, medical robotics, intelligent systems, and beyond.
Let’s delve into the leading robotics research institutions and labs in Poland, highlighting their latest advancements and contributions to the field.
Industrial Research Institute for Automation and Measurements (PIAP)
Warsaw-based Industrial Research Institute for Automation and Measurement (PIAP) is a research and development institute established in 1965. With more than fifty years of implementing new technologies such as automation systems, specialized measuring equipment, and robotic applications for various industries, PIAP has produced a significant number of designs and applications in robotics. Researchers have addressed many complex technical challenges in industrial automation, modern mechatronic systems, specialized measuring and inspection equipment, and visual inspection systems.
PIAP has been the only manufacturer of high-quality mobile robots and robotic counter-terrorism devices in Poland for more than a decade. In 2000, the first INSPECTOR mobile robot was delivered to the local police force. Later, the EXPERT, PIAP SCOUT, TRM, and IBIS robots were created, as well as EXPLORER devices. PIAP robots are widely used by Polish security and defense services, including the Police, Army, Border Guard, and Government Protection Bureau.
Institute of Automatic Control – Technical University of Lodz
The Robot Control Department at the Institute of Automatic Control was established in 1991. Since its inception, scientific and research work has focused on the control and construction of robots. It has awarded six doctorates, two habilitations, and two professorships. The main areas of research include the control of electrical and pneumatic actuators for robots, the use of visual information in robot control, the design and control of mobile robots and robots for special applications, advanced non-linear control strategies, networking, and impedance control.
Robot Programming and Pattern Recognition Group – Warsaw University of Technology
The Robot Programming and Pattern Recognition Group is part of the Institute of Control and Computation Engineering at the Warsaw University of Technology. The group conducts research on robot control and programming, as well as pattern recognition. The focus is on complex robotic systems, including the design of robot programming frameworks, the control of multi-robot systems, the formal approach to structuring multi-robot system controllers, and behavioral embodied agents. Their work involves the aggregation of information from various types of sensors, manipulation of objects with internal degrees of freedom, computer vision, and speech recognition. The main goal is to build robots that can operate efficiently in both natural and human-created environments. Much of the team’s work deals with advanced computer science applications in robotics, aiming to create a framework that serves as a programming platform for all types of robots.
Institute of Computer Engineering, Control and Robotics – Wroclaw University of Technology
The Institute of Computer Engineering, Control, and Robotics at the Wroclaw University of Technology focuses on research areas such as robot modeling, control, and motion planning, discrete-event control in robotics and automation, prosthetics and therapeutic robots, and social robotics.
Poznan University of Technology – Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence
The Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence at Poznan University of Technology is a prominent center for robotics research. The institute specializes in intelligent robotic systems, machine vision, autonomous mobile robots, and human-robot interaction. Their research aims to develop advanced robotic solutions for industrial, medical, and service applications. The institute also collaborates with industry partners to transfer innovative technologies from research to practical applications.
AGH University of Science and Technology – Department of Robotics and Mechatronics
The Department of Robotics and Mechatronics at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow is renowned for its research in robotics, mechatronics, and automation. The department focuses on various aspects of robotics, including robotic control systems, artificial intelligence in robotics, mobile and industrial robots, and medical robotics. Their work includes both theoretical research and practical implementations, contributing to advancements in robotics technology and applications.
Lodz University of Technology – Institute of Mechatronics and Information Systems
The Institute of Mechatronics and Information Systems at Lodz University of Technology is involved in cutting-edge research in robotics and mechatronics. Their research areas include robotic vision systems, autonomous navigation, robot programming, and smart sensors. The institute’s interdisciplinary approach combines mechanical engineering, electronics, and computer science to develop innovative robotic systems for diverse applications, from industrial automation to healthcare.
Gdansk University of Technology – Faculty of Electrical and Control Engineering
The Faculty of Electrical and Control Engineering at Gdansk University of Technology conducts extensive research in robotics, particularly in the fields of robotic control systems, automation, and intelligent systems. The faculty’s research projects cover a wide range of topics, including robotic perception, motion planning, and collaborative robots. Their aim is to advance the state of the art in robotics through interdisciplinary research and collaboration with industry partners.
Poland’s robotics research landscape is vibrant and diverse, with institutions and labs tackling a wide range of challenges. The collaborative spirit between academia and industry is fueling innovation and positioning Poland as a significant player in the global robotics community.