UPC Acquires the Advanced TIAGo Robot under the EU MERIT Project

The Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya – BarcelonaTech (UPC) is proud to announce the acquisition of the TIAGo robot from PAL Robotics. This state-of-the-art robotic platform will serve as a cornerstone for developing advanced skills in robotics and artificial intelligence within the context of the European Union’s MERIT project.

The robot acquisition marks a significant milestone for the Master’s programme in Machine Learning and Cybersecurity for Internet-Connected Systems. Students will now have unparalleled opportunities to engage with cutting-edge robotics technology, particularly during their Master’s theses, aligning with UPC’s mission to drive innovation and excellence in education.

What is the TIAGo Robot?

TIAGo, developed by PAL Robotics, is a versatile and widely used robot in academic and research institutions worldwide. Its combination of perception, navigation, manipulation, and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) capabilities makes it an invaluable tool for advancing the field.

Key Features of TIAGo:

• Manipulation: With a 7-degree-of-freedom (DoF) arm and a payload of 3 kg, TIAGo can interact with objects ranging from small, delicate items to heavier materials. Its large workspace enables tasks as diverse as picking items from the floor or high shelves.
• Navigation: The robot’s advanced autonomous navigation system, powered by ROS (Robot Operating System), ensures seamless movement in complex environments.
• Perception: TIAGo’s RGB-D camera and 2-DoF head enable it to recognize faces, track people, and even interpret emotions.
• HRI: Equipped with a touchscreen, voice interaction, and gesture capabilities, TIAGo facilitates intuitive communication and collaboration between humans and robots.

How Will TIAGo Enhance Education at UPC?

Through its integration into the Master’s program, TIAGo will provide students with a hands-on opportunity to explore robotics in real-world contexts. Its advanced features align with the multidisciplinary demands of machine learning, cybersecurity, and robotics.

Students working on their Master’s theses will particularly benefit, as the robot offers a platform for developing and testing innovative solutions in areas such as:

• Autonomous navigation in interconnected systems.
• Machine learning applications for robotics perception and decision-making.
• Enhancing human-robot collaboration using advanced HRI interfaces.
• Testing secure communications and operations in robotic systems.

This initiative, under the MERIT project, reinforces UPC’s position as a leading institution in cutting-edge technology education and research.

TIAGo and the MERIT Project

The MERIT project is part of the European Union’s effort to enhance the competencies of students and researchers in emerging fields. By equipping UPC with advanced tools like TIAGo, the project aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering the development of future-ready professionals.

What’s Next?

UPC is already preparing to integrate TIAGo into the curriculum, with workshops and research opportunities tailored to explore its potential. The university invites students and faculty to collaborate on ambitious projects that push the boundaries of robotics and interconnected systems.

Stay tuned for updates on how TIAGo will transform education at UPC and contribute to groundbreaking research under the MERIT project. Together, we are shaping the future of robotics and AI.