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ICARO

PROJECT

ICARO

Conversational Intelligence for Robotic Applications in a Circular and Sustainable Factory
PROJECT LEAD

Alina Gnerre

CONCEPT

ICARO is a digital assistant based on conversational artificial intelligence, designed to support human operators during various stages of the production process. It offers functionalities such as assistance with robot mission programming, interaction during operational activities, and training on AI and its applications in sustainable industrial contexts.

The project is structured around three main industrial research areas:

  1. Development of AI algorithms based on the creation of a Knowledge Base specifically tailored for Circular and Sustainable Manufacturing, enabling the assistant to provide personalized and targeted support to human operators.
  2. Robot vision integration and module connection with the AI assistant to allow the robot to perceive and autonomously interpret its surrounding environment, thus enhancing its operational capabilities and human interaction.
  3. Definition of a use case to test the project results, and design of three training courses aimed at industrial operators and high school students. These courses will provide an overview of Circular and Sustainable Manufacturing, the role of AI, and practical examples of industrial applications.
CONTEXT

This research project is set within the broader framework of Circular and Sustainable Manufacturing. Its goal is to develop an innovative solution based on Conversational Intelligence (CI) to support human operators in production environments.

ICARO will assist in robot operations, human-machine interactions, and training initiatives related to AI and industrial sustainability. The research activities include:

  • developing AI algorithms tailored to sustainable manufacturing;
  • integrating robot vision capabilities;
  • validating the solution through real-world use cases and educational paths designed for both workers and students to foster future-ready skills in AI and sustainability.

Beneficiari

OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS

The project will design and validate ICARO, a conversational AI system for manufacturing environments, consisting of two components:

  • ICARO on the Job: integrated with a robotic platform to support tasks such as material selection and handling;
  • ICARO for Training: an educational assistant promoting knowledge on circular and sustainable factories.

Main objectives include:

  • Needs analysis and definition of technical requirements
  • Development of an advanced conversational module and artificial vision system
  • Integration of AI with an autonomous robot to enhance human-machine collaboration
  • Creation of interactive and customized training materials on sustainability and circularity
  • Validation through testing protocols to ensure functionality and reliability

KEY FIGURES

7

RESEARCHERS INVOLVED

6160

RESEARCH HOURS

12

PROJECT DURATION

7

NUMBER OF WORK PACKAGES (WPS)

4

STARTING TRL

8

FINAL TRL