Excellence Cluster in Autonomous Field Robotics

Important results from the project

The project’s three objectives were: a revised vision for excellence in robotics and autonomous systems, an implementation plan, and a mobilised group of stakeholders. We have further developed the vision, begun work on the implementation plan and, above all, built a network of stakeholders from industry, the public sector, the innovation system, and academia; all with a common goal of reliable autonomous intelligent systems in challenging environments.

Expected long term effects

Overall, the project has created the structural conditions in the form of networks, coordination and international ties that determine whether a cluster of excellence can actually achieve excellence. The business network that has been mobilised represents a lasting asset. Coordination with other planning projects further reduces fragmentation within the Swedish research landscape. The project has also led to strengthened links with networks in Canada, Germany and Australia.

Approach and implementation

As the conditions for future cluster applications look somewhat different from what we thought when this project was planned, the implementation has also been adjusted. More time has been spent on coordinating with other stakeholders in Sweden, rather than developing a concrete roadmap for research over the next ten years, for example. Collaboration within the project has been excellent, and we look forward to moving forward together with other excellent stakeholders who share our goals.