In recent years, industries have been struggling with a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled labor. This issue spans various fields, from manufacturing to healthcare, and is increased by factors such as demographic shifts, skill gaps, and economic fluctuations.  However, amidst these challenges, research such as the 2024 Robotics Roadmap see robotics and automation as a possible solution. Here’s how: Revolutionizing Manufacturing One of the most prominent areas where robotics is making a transformative impact is manufacturing. Traditionally labor-intensive processes have increasingly been automated, not to replace human workers, but to complement their efforts. Robots excel in tasks requiring precision, consistency, and repetition, allowing human workers to focus on more […]

The 2024 Robotics Roadmap, released on April 26, states that the United States, once a frontrunner in robotics innovation, now faces a critical juncture as it lags behind global counterparts in adoption and investment.  But there is hope if we fully leverage the transformative potential of robotics technology. A cohesive national strategy is essential, requiring coordinated efforts across industry, academia, and government.  Here are four ways robotics can ease long-term challenges in the US. Supporting the Aging Population With the aging population in the US, robotics can play a significant role in providing assistance and care for the elderly. Robotic companions, exoskeletons for mobility support, and automated home systems can […]

A recent roadmap document organized by over 90 individuals, including CCC council members Holly Yanco and Ufuk Topcu, notes that the field of robotics, which was once pioneered in the United States, has seen a significant shift in global leadership over the past few decades. While the country initially excelled in industrial applications, such as automotive and aerospace, it has now fallen behind, ranking 10th worldwide in robotics adoption. Meanwhile, China has surged ahead, purchasing the majority of robots sold globally. This decline in US robotics dominance comes at a crucial point in the field’s development. Advances in component technologies like materials, embedded systems, and AI are driving exponential growth […]

The Computing Community Consortium (CCC) is excited that council member Holly Yanco (Chair, Distinguished University Professor, NERVE Center Director, UMass Lowell), and former council members Melanie Moses (Professor, University of New Mexico) and Chad Jenkins (Professor, Robotics, University of Michigan) were exhibitors at the Senate Robotics and Demo Day. They were among exhibitors across industry, academia, and government. The Computing Research Association (CRA), in collaboration with co-hosts IEEE-USA and Carnegie Mellon University, was pleased to host Members of Congress, the media, and the public in the Hart Senate Office Building on April 30.  Through interactive exhibits and informal discussions, attendees gained insight into the current state of US robotics innovation […]

The US National Robotics Roadmap was first created 14 years ago. It has since been used by government agencies, universities and companies as a reference about where robotics is going. The first roadmap was published 2009, then revised 2013, 2016 and 2020. The objective is to publish the 5th version of the roadmap by spring 2024. Due to major changes in the world and the robotics landscape, the CCC published a Mid-Cycle Update to the US National Robotics Roadmap this past April. The objective is to engage about 150–200 people from academia and industry to ensure that the roadmap is representative of the community’s view of where robotics is going. […]

The US National Robotics Roadmap was first created 14 years ago. It has since been used by government agencies, universities and companies as a reference about where robotics is going. The first roadmap was published 2009, then revised 2013, 2016 and 2020. The objective is to publish the 5th version of the roadmap by spring 2024. Due to major changes in the world and the robotics landscape, the CCC published a Mid-Cycle Update to the US National Robotics Roadmap this past April. The objective is to engage about 150–200 people from academia and industry to ensure that the roadmap is representative of the community’s view of where robotics is going. […]