Project Context and Objectives
The INVERSE project addresses a key challenge in robotics: enabling robots to work effectively in real-world environments that are unpredictable and constantly changing. While Artificial Intelligence has made remarkable progress, most robots still struggle when asked to perform tasks outside of tightly controlled settings. Unlike humans, who can adapt and transfer knowledge across different situations, robots lack the cognitive flexibility to do so.
INVERSE aims to change this by developing a new learning framework that allows robots to continuously improve their understanding and performance. Inspired by how humans learn through experience, feedback, and imagination, the project equips robots with the ability to refine their skills over time, adapt to new domains, and recover from mistakes. This makes them more capable of handling complex tasks in dynamic environments, such as modern manufacturing.
Human involvement is central to this approach. The project uses human feedback to guide robot learning, ensuring that the technology remains practical and safe for real-world use. Two industrial use cases will demonstrate how these intelligent robots can support workers and improve productivity.
Pathway to Impact
INVERSE is expected to contribute significantly to the future of human-robot collaboration (HRC). By making robots more adaptable and responsive, the project supports a smoother and more sustainable integration of robotics into everyday work. This has the potential to enhance job quality, reduce physical strain, and open new opportunities for workers in evolving roles.
The project also responds to broader European goals around digital transformation, industrial resilience, and inclusive innovation. Its outcomes are designed to be scalable and relevant across sectors, helping Europe maintain leadership in advanced manufacturing and AI.
Role of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH)
Social sciences and humanities play a vital role in INVERSE by ensuring that technology development is guided by human values and societal needs. The project uses SSH methods to understand how people interact with robots, what they expect from these systems, and how collaboration can be made more meaningful and trustworthy.
This includes designing robots that are not only technically capable but also perceived as safe and reliable by workers, managers, and unions. The project emphasizes user-centered design, involving stakeholders in every step, from early ideas to real-world testing. It also explores how HRC can support career development and upskilling, making sure that technological change benefits people as well as industry.
