Smarter Robot Bodies

Document type: Opportunity space

Authors: Jenny Read

Date published: 17 November 2023

Version: 1

DOI: https://doi.org/10.67475/srbzxt2-42bd

 

Abstract

Throughout history, humans have used tools and machines to reduce the burden of physical labour. We are entering a new era with robots smart enough to act independently in complex and dynamic environments. But smart machines with dumb bodies will only get us so far – to reap the transformative benefits of intelligent machines, we need better bodies. 

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Smarter Robot Bodies was one of ARIA's original opportunity spaces. Following an evolution of our research portfolio in August 2026, it now sits within the Adaptive Machines opportunity space. The beliefs and observations that defined Smarter Robot Bodies still hold, and its remit continues in full within Adaptive Machines with respect to both future programmes and seed funding. No active funding was affected by this change.