Industrial robots are a key driver of modern manufacturing—yet today’s systems are often costly, inflexible, and highly complex. Equipped with numerous sensors and extensive cabling, conventional robots lack the flexibility required for truly dynamic and collaborative production environments.

The German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) is therefore presenting a new approach at HANNOVER MESSE 2026 that directly addresses these challenges: robots controlled by their environment and connected via next-generation 6G communication. By shifting intelligence from the robot itself to the surrounding infrastructure, robotic systems can be deployed much more easily, flexibly, and simply. This concept enables robots to work together on shared tasks and, above all, to operate safely alongside humans. Instead of being isolated in cages, future robots will be directly integrated into human-centered production processes.

Data is a key factor in realizing this vision. Modern production relies on numerous data sources—materials, machines, capacities, availability, and much more—which are often stored in separate databases with proprietary identifiers. To manage this complexity, a data curation layer is essential. It harmonizes heterogeneous data and creates a common language that all machines and systems can simultaneously understand and use. Artificial intelligence plays a central role in this architecture. AI systems can support and complement the human workforce, especially in times of growing skills shortages. Rather than replacing people, AI supports them in decision-making, coordination, and the execution of complex tasks. The message is clear: now is the time to invest in intelligent, flexible, and human-compatible automation. Step by step, this approach paves the way for the smart factory of the future—scalable, collaborative, and ready for the next era of industrial production.

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