The goal of the Field Robotics RD is to carry out fundamental and applied research that enables autonomous robotic systems to undertake dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks in the real world. The research activities are conducted by two laboratories:

(1) Field and Service Robotics Lab, which pushes the frontiers in precision agriculture robots (multi-DOF wheeled, legged, and aerial robots based on advanced design, materials, control, sensing, and AI), advanced maritime robotics (sea-surface and underwater robots for environmental monitoring, inspection and maintenance tasks for ships and ports; ocean floor and fisheries monitoring, search for underwater archaeological sites and shipwrecks with UUVs), autonomous systems for transportation and logistics (Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) including mobile platforms and cranes for port terminals and airports, and AMRs cooperating with aerial drones for warehouse automation), and construction robotics (robots with suitable sensors and intelligence to handle heavy materials, conduct surveying and inspection, and employ 3D printing), and

(2) Space Robotics Lab, which advances basic research in space robotics, by developing science and technologies for Space Robotics in orbit (space debris removal, autonomous refuelling) and for planet exploration and exploitation (i.e. rovers, construction on the Moon).

Healthcare constitutes a field of primary importance for Greece and is a top priority in terms of prospective high social impact. HERON will create two laboratories: (i) a Surgical Robotics Lab, and (ii) a Humanoids and Assistive Robotics Lab. These laboratories will carry out research and target innovation and leadership in two main areas: 

(1) Αrea1. Surgical and Interventional Robotics to assist and train surgeons in conducting delicate operations and improve the outcome of complex procedures. HERON will create the infrastructure to promote R&I actions in this field, enabling the development of new technologies that will aim at augmenting the cognitive and perceptuo-motor capacity of the surgeon and medical doctor in a variety of clinical procedures. 

(2) Area2. Assistive and Rehabilitation Robotics to enhance the autonomy of people with motor, sensory, or cognitive impairment, improving their abilities in important Activities of Daily Living, promoting inclusion, and ameliorating quality of life. HERON will collaborate with health workers to identify critical user needs and develop cost-effective impactful solutions, thus closing the gap between technological advances and real clinical practice. Key topics include: (a) Mobility & Cognitive Assistance Robotics; (b) Socially Assistive Robotics (e.g. child-robot interaction); (c) Prosthetics and Exoskeleton Robotics Devices, and Safety in Physical HRI; and (d) Healthcare Robotics Data Science.

The goal of the Safety & Security Robotics RD is the research and development of custom robotic systems that can meet the critical requirements for search and rescue robots, disaster response, and infrastructure monitoring, specific to the Greek, Mediterranean, and Balkan regions. The research activities target the advancement of interoperability, autonomy, and security, the enhancement of human-machine collaboration, and the improvement of utilization of currently available off-the-shelf systems. The lab also pursues the development of HERON’s own new technologies to address specific operational requirements and integrate them with new off-the-shelf technologies on ground, aerial, and marine vehicles.