Major funding boost for robotics and autonomous tech at WMG

The development of robotics and autonomous technology at WMG, University of Warwick has received part of a £6.5 million boost from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The grant - of which over £620,000 goes to WMG - will help to advance work on the world's most adaptable 3xD simulator for autonomous vehicles. WMG's 3xD simulator recreates the world for an intelligent vehicle within the 3xD simulator, replicating complex driving scenarios, communications interference or unexpected events, all in a safe and repeatable environment. It is the only simulator of its kind designed specifically to test real-world robustness and usability of smart, connected and autonomous vehicle technology - EPSRC's overall £6.5m capital investment will strengthen and consolidate its existing investments to enhance capabilities and enable collaboration across a common platform within the UK Robotics and Autonomous Systems Network (UK-RAS Network). This distributed network of capital equipment will enable the UK's robotics and artificial intelligence researchers - of which WMG is a vital part - to accelerate the translation of fundamental research into cross-sector, enabling technologies and promote cross-sector growth. Professor Carsten Maple, Professor of Cyber Systems Engineering at WMG, comments: "This EPSRC grant will enhance our already world-leading 3xD Vehicle Simulator. It will allow the emulation of both radar signals and 5th Generation communications allowing us to create modern and future environments.