Go to http://www.grasp.upenn.edu/~kumar/RSS06workshop/ for more information.
Robotics Science and Systems, 2006
Friday, August 16, 1:30-4:30
Goal
The workshop brings together leaders in academia, government and industry to identify and articulate key scientific and technological achievements in robotics, the main challenges confronting the community, and the key milestones for the next decade.
Background
Over 4 decades have passed since the installation of the first industrial robot, and the first robotics research conference was held over 2 decades ago. A recent study at www.wtec.org/robotics provides a good summary of the state-of-the-art in robotics research and development. While the industry surrounding industrial and service robotics is only $10B world wide, the impact of robotics science and technology the goes well beyond this industry. Contributions of the robotics community ranging from algorithms for dynamic simulation and motion planning to designs for vehicles and robot platforms have had a significant influence on industries that are not identified with robotics. Students trained in robotics are attractive to both civilian and defense industry. Most universities, colleges and even schools have made or are making significant investments in robotics because of the intellectual foundations of the field. And yet funding for basic research in this field is low. The workshop will engage members of the community to identify and articulate key scientific and technological achievements and milestones for the future. Possible outcomes of the workshop include the establishment of a world-wide network in robotics, a decadal survey of robotics research, and a roadmap for investment in robotics.
Report from the workshop
The workshop engaged over 80 participants in a range of questions and concerns related to the future of robotics. See http://www.grasp.upenn.edu/~kumar/RSS06workshop/ for more information.
Organizers
George Bekey (USC), Vijay Kumar (UPenn), and Matthew Mason (CMU)