How is research funded in Europe?
The European union’s Lisbon strategy aims to have Europe become the “most dynamic competitive knowledge-based economy in the world”. “Framework Programs” (FPs) are financial tools used to achieve ambitious goals such as this by providing support for European research and development activities.
What does European research focus on?
FP7 is currently in place with a strong focus on information and communication technology research (ICT), which is vital to the competitiveness of European industry and to meeting the demands of its society and economy. A specific focus within FP7 is cognitive systems and robotics. With a solid base in industrial robotics, European robotics research also focuses on professional service, domestic service, security and space robotics. Extensive analysis of market developments and future opportunities are being continuously performed to help maintain and expand Europe’s leading position in this sector.
Where does European robotics stand globally?
The potential in the field of robotics in Europe is huge: there are strong robotics and automation suppliers supported by a well networked education and research community. European nations that are most involved in robotics are Germany, Sweden, Italy, France, Finland, Belgium and Spain. The need for robotics in Europe is also great in terms of security, healthcare, industry and the monitoring of everyday environments.
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