The GRC 2026 serves as a key platform for the transfer of cutting-edge scientific research into industrial use. DFKI will display solutions specifically designed for extreme environments – from the deep sea to outer space.
Robotic systems for the field, underwater, and space
At the accompanying trade exhibition, DFKI will present selected projects that highlight the current advancements in robotics research:
- Autonomous underwater maintenance (MARIOW): This system was created for automated upkeep of maritime infrastructure like offshore wind farms. By combining a robotic arm with AI-supported path planning, it enables autonomous underwater welding, greatly reducing the need for risky diving operations.
- Robotic assistance in disaster response (ROMATRIS): The KRIS aid robot supports emergency workers in difficult terrain. Capable of transporting loads up to 150 kilograms, it can be controlled intuitively through hand signals or a precise "follow-me" mode, easing physical burden on personnel during crises.
- AI-driven agriculture automation (FieldCoBots): The SHIVAA robot showcases the potential of agricultural AI. Specializing in automated fruit harvesting, the system employs complex image processing algorithms to identify and pick ripe fruit without causing damage.
- Multimodal exoskeleton: This technological interface between humans and machines is used in medical rehabilitation and space exploration. It functions as a haptic input device for precise remote control (teleoperation) of complex robotic systems, aiding stroke patients and simulating microgravity in astronaut training.
Future-proof networking: Open6GHub+
The performance of future robot systems is closely connected to the quality of the communication infrastructure. The Open6GHub+ project demonstrates this with a prototype showing highly synchronized control of linear drives using the 5G/6G mobile communication standard. Since extremely low latency is the essential technological requirement for smooth and safe cooperation between robots, this development represents a significant step toward fully connected production environments of the future.
Knowledge Transfer and Sports Excellence
Besides the exhibition, DFKI is also engaged in knowledge exchange. In collaboration with partners from the RIG cluster "AI-Powered Industrial Robotics," DFKI is leading the workshop "WS4: AI-Powered Industrial Robotics" to enhance the dialogue between research and industry.
A special highlight will occur simultaneously at the Cologne Exhibition Center: the RoboCup German Open 2026 (March 10–14). Here, the team of the University of Bremen and the DFKI, called “B-Human”, as twelve-time reigning world champions, will compete with new robots.