Robocalypse now

Will robots ever be able to peel a lettuce, play the piano or use chopsticks? While simple to humans, these tasks are difficult for robots because the solutions require creativity and dexterity. To meet these challenges, the field of robotics is moving away from rigid industrial systems toward soft, compliant and adaptive systems that can be safely used around humans. In this talk we will discuss how inspiration from biology is being used in modern robotics, from design and fabrication to longer term trends of bio hybrid robotics.

What if we could teach cars to drive the same way we teach our children? To understand the world, how other cars and pedestrians will move, and to react accordingly? Or, better yet, to get you through the craze of Piccadilly Circus without the headache? Through cutting-edge computer vision and artificial intelligence software, we're developing a novel approach to self-driving cars by directly teaching cars to drive like you and me. In this talk I will discuss a few of the groundbreaking results we have already achieved in the last 12 months, and outline our vision for the future of mobility.

CMR Surgical, a pioneering British company founded in Cambridge was established to transform surgery. There are over 6 million people worldwide who are not getting the right type of surgery. In creating Versius, a next-generation surgical robotic system, the company offers the potential for millions of people around the world to benefit from a shorter stay in hospital, reduced scarring, less pain, blood loss and surgical complications as a result of getting keyhole surgery.

As part of the Creative Reactions project, Tiina will be presenting artwork inspired by the research of speakers in this talk series. The artwork will also be on display at our Creative Reactions Exhibition at St Barnabas Church, 24 - 25 May.