UTFacultiesEEMCSEventsRobotics Day & Launch Robotics Centre

Robotics Day & Launch Robotics Centre

Where science, technology, society, and business meet

On March 28, the University of Twente brings you the Robotics Day – where science, technology, society and business meet! This inspiring event will blast off with a captivating keynote of Twan Koolen, from Boston Dynamics. After that, we'll explore the cutting-edge labs and immerse ourselves in the latest advancements in robotics research. 

Join us as we explore the latest innovations in robotics and learn about the future possibilities of this dynamic field. Get ready to be inspired and connect!

Program overview

12:00 – 12:30 Walk-in with lunch
12:30 – 13:30 Keynote speaker: Twan Koolen
13:30 – 16:00 Robotics tour
16:00 – 18:00 Panel discussions and Launch Robotics Centre

Keynote speaker: Twan Koolen

We are excited to announce Twan Koolen, Senior Staff Software Engineer of Boston Dynamics, as our keynote speaker.

The Atlas robot from Boston Dynamics has demonstrated impressive dynamic manoeuvres such as jogging, box jumps, and even a dance routine. These feats showcase advanced hydraulic hardware and model predictive control, but the dynamic locomotion capability alone is not very practical. In his keynote, Twan Koolen will discuss how they combined Atlas' movement with heavy object manipulation, resulting in the “Atlas Gets a Grip” video.

Twan will also take us on a journey through his experience in the world of robotics, from his days at RoboCup to his current position at Boston Dynamics, and how providing great opportunities can lead to incredible things for others.

Robotics tour

After Twan Koolen's keynote, we have an exciting tour planned for you. You will have the opportunity to visit the various robotics labs available at the University of Twente, where enthusiastic researchers will showcase their latest work and facilities. You will get to see all the cutting-edge research being done in fields. This tour will be a unique opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in robotics research and see how these innovations are shaping the future of robotics.

Panel discussions moderated by Anic van Damme

At 16:00 hours, we will head back to the TechMed Centre for a series of engaging panel discussions moderated by Anic van Damme, creative storyteller, presenter, and journalist.

The panels will feature lively discussions and insights from leading scientists, students, and representatives from various focus application domains of the Robotics Centre, including healthcare, industry, and society. Through these discussions, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the future challenges and opportunities of robotics and the role that the Robotics Centre can play in advancing the field.

Launch Robotics Centre

After being inspired by our keynote speaker, witnessing some amazing pitches in our various labs, and engaging in insightful panel discussions, we are delighted to celebrate the launch of the University of Twente Robotics Centre. This centre is a place where all of University Twente’s robotic expertise comes together. Please join us in the journey to create new robotic technologies for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

At the Robotics Centre we bring together robotics professionals from all over the world and of all ages to work on robotic solutions in the medical, industrial and societal domains. A place where new robotic systems are incubated and designed to improve life. A community of responsible, critical thinkers, making use of all the creativity, knowledge, and facilities at our disposal to create meaningful impact with the help of robots.

Register now

Join us for this special occasion as we bring together some of the brightest minds in the industry and look forward to the incredible advancements that the Robotics Centre is sure to bring to life!

Want to be part of the Robotics Day & the launch of the Robotics Centre? Make sure to sign up on our website.