Investigating how robot systems can function better in dynamic environments

Currently, most robots are seen in industry where they support repetitive tasks, such as in the assembly lines of cars or in the production of microchips. However, in the near future the robot should find his way in less structured environments as well, to be able to work in healthcare or in hazardous environments, such as disaster areas. Researcher Wouter Houtman investigated the interaction of robots with their environment and developed algorithms to improve their movements in "the real world." He will defend his Ph.D. thesis at the department of Mechanical Engineering on Thursday 4th of November.