The I²RS Centre of Excellence for Smart Regional Innovation
Led by Saxion University of Applied Sciences and coordinated by Professor Abeje Mersha, the Intelligent Integral Robotic Systems (I²RS) Centre of Excellence is a core component of the E³UDRES² alliance. This initiative addresses the critical role of robotics in tackling modern societal and industrial challenges. By integrating robotics, AI, and systems engineering, the centre focuses on developing intelligent unmanned systems for vital sectors such as smart industry, logistics, and exploration.
The Centre brings together expertise from Saxion UAS, Politehnica University Timișoara, the Polytechnic of Setúbal, and UC Leuven-Limburg to:
- Build intelligent integral robotic systems by combining state-of-the-art AI, sensing, and mechatronics.
- Connect education, research, and regional innovation ecosystems to strengthen the applied research capacity of Universities of Applied Sciences (UASs).
- Empower bright minds to thrive in the field of robotics while forging sustainable, long-term partnerships with local communities.
- Evolve into a premier European research centre that provides regional communities with easy access to practical, state-of-the-art knowledge.
Results and impact
As a newly established centre, formal results are currently being developed, but significant progress is already underway to position the alliance as a leader in technology transfer. The anticipated impact includes:
- Strengthening the R&I profile of E³UDRES² and enhancing its European visibility.
- Generating new cross-institutional projects and offering rich opportunities for student involvement through placements and collaborative research.
- Reinforcing regional robotics ecosystems, specifically in Twente and other active E³UDRES² regions, through living lab pilots and applied prototyping.
Lessons learned
The establishment of the I²RS Centre has successfully demonstrated how UASs can strengthen their collective excellence in applied research by working within a European University framework. A key success factor has been the ability to pool regional strengths into a joint European profile, effectively connecting innovation ecosystems across borders. However, the initiative also highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing institutional diversity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of such cross-border collaborations.
Learn more
This showcase highlights how UASs can lead the way in high-tech innovation and regional development through international cooperation. For more information about the Intelligent Integral Robotic Systems initiative, please visit this link.
We will be back next week with another inspiring good practice from one of our members. It is not too late to submit yours. Please do so by contacting eurashe@eurashe.eu