Photo (from left to right): Fabian Burger, Managing Director of BURGER GROUP; the initiator of the Foundation Dr. Maximilian Gießler; Rector Prof. Dr. Stephan Trahasch, President of Offenburg University of Applied Sciences; Timo Gessmann, CTO of SCHUNK.
Photo credit: Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Alexander Weigand
The newly established foundation is dedicated to advancing education, applied research, and technology transfer in the fields of humanoid robotics and embodied artificial intelligence (Embodied AI). Through research and transfer projects, the development of a strong network connecting industry and academia, and initiatives to inspire young talent in STEM disciplines, the foundation will help consolidate expertise and bring innovative technologies into practical industrial applications more rapidly.
The initiative is supported by funding from the State of Baden-Württemberg. By strengthening knowledge transfer and collaboration structures, the foundation will contribute to further expanding the robotics ecosystem across the entire value chain and enhancing the region’s technological competitiveness.
Connecting Research and Industrial Practice
The foundation is hosted by Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, home to one of Southern Germany’s leading research centers for robotics and collaborative robotics. Through its Work-Life Robotics Institute (WLRI), the university develops practical robotics solutions in close cooperation with industrial partners, fostering a strong connection between research and business.
By establishing the foundation, the university continues to expand its activities in the future-oriented fields of artificial intelligence and robotics, creating new opportunities for knowledge and technology transfer.
BURGER GROUP Invests in Future Technologies
As a development and technology partner, BURGER GROUP is actively involved across the entire robotics value chain. The company develops and manufactures its own components and solutions for advanced robotic systems while simultaneously implementing robotics technologies within its own production processes.
In addition to extensive expertise in industrial and collaborative robotics, BURGER GROUP is increasingly exploring the potential of humanoid robotic systems and their future applications.
Through its role as a founding partner of the foundation, BURGER GROUP reaffirms its long-term commitment to technological innovation, scientific progress, and the development of future talent. At the same time, advances in robotics and AI technologies create opportunities for new business areas and support the transformation of established industries.
"By connecting research, education, and industrial application, we are creating the foundation for actively shaping future technologies while sustainably strengthening the competitiveness of our customers and partners," says BURGER GROUP.
Shaping the Future Together
The “Humanoid Robotics and Embodied AI” Foundation brings together the expertise of industry and academia to accelerate the transfer of innovations into real-world applications. At the same time, it makes an important contribution to educating the next generation of skilled professionals and strengthening Baden-Württemberg as a leading hub for technology and innovation.
With BURGER GROUP, Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, and SCHUNK, three strong partners are joining forces with a shared vision: to advance the development and responsible use of humanoid robotics and artificial intelligence and to help shape the future of these transformative technologies.
About the Members of the Foundation’s Founding Council
Offenburg University of Applied Sciences
Offenburg University of Applied Sciences is one of Germany’s leading universities of applied sciences, with a strong focus on engineering, business, and media. Through its Work-Life Robotics Institute (WLRI), the university conducts application-oriented research in robotics, specializing in industrial and collaborative robotics, additive manufacturing of robotic components, and healthcare robotics. By combining academic excellence with close industry collaboration, the university actively contributes to the development of innovative technologies and their transfer into practical applications. www.hs-offenburg.de
SCHUNK SE & Co. KG
As a technology pioneer in clamping technology, gripping systems, and automation technology, SCHUNK has been creating productivity gains for industrial customers and partners worldwide for more than 80 years. Its comprehensive portfolio of components, engineering expertise, and automation solutions supports manufacturers across a wide range of industries.Today, approximately 3,700 employees work for SCHUNK in 10 production facilities and 34 subsidiaries around the globe, supported by sales partners in more than 75 countries. Through close collaboration with customers and active participation in innovation networks, SCHUNK develops future-oriented technologies for industries including automotive, e-mobility, life sciences, aerospace, and electronics. schunk.com