Construction continues on a world-leading research facility for robotics and artificial intelligence, using about 350 tonnes of structural sections supplied by British Steel, which makes them at Scunthorpe and Teesside.
Based at Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, the National Robotariumm is supported by £21 million from the UK Government, and £1.4 million from the Scottish Government as part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.
Expected to open in autumn this year, it will create innovative solutions to global challenges using cutting-edge research, product design and industry collaboration.
Bringing together academics and global companies, the facility will provide a catalyst for entrepreneurship and is expected to deliver sustainable economic benefit to Edinburgh, the UK and beyond. Key areas of research application will include hazardous environments, offshore energy, manufacturing, construction, healthcare, human-robot interaction, assisted living and agritech.
Innovative design means the cutting-edge resources will be matched by the building itself, with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. In winter, the intelligent façade will provide solar heat and recycle warm air. An ecological zone will integrate sustainable urban drainage systems, while a solar PV array will be installed on the roof. EV charging spaces will also be available. British Steel has supplied 350 tonnes of structural steel to fabricator BHC Limited for the facility, which will be the largest and most advanced of its type in the UK.
