Overview
The URPR is an integrated group of universities, each with particular strengths and expertise. When combined, the capabilities of this consortium can provide broad-based robotics and automation solutions to many difficult DOE NNSA problems. While each URPR participant has a major thrust area, they also work together in many areas to take advantage of particular areas of expertise, which can assist other participants in achieving high-impact products.
The participating universities and their lead research areas are presented as follows:
- University of Florida - Micro-systems for radiation environments.
- University of Michigan - Mobile robotics and radiation sensors.
- University of New Mexico - Simulation-based systems realization.
- University of Tennessee - Modular sensing for surveillance and security.
- University of Texas - Modular actuators and manipulators.
The Program was developed to bring the five universities together to support the DOE in the handling and manipulation of materials that are too hazardous for human exposure. Robotics is believed to be a key technology for these activities.
