SciTransfer
EARASHI · Project

Human-Centric AI and Robotics to Improve Factory Safety and Worker Productivity

manufacturingPilotedTRL 6

Imagine a factory where robots aren't just machines, but helpful teammates that understand how humans feel and move. This work makes sure these robots don't stress out the people working next to them or cause accidents. It's like giving a robot a 'social brain' so it can help workers without being intrusive or dangerous.

By the numbers
460 b€
Annual cost of work-related accidents and illnesses to EU economy in 2019
3.3%
Annual EU GDP lost due to work-related accidents
10-15%
Percentage of work accidents in France related to production machines
2M€
Total funding spread across 10 challenges via FSTP
23
Technical building blocks provided to SMEs
The business problem

What needed solving

Production machines cause significant economic loss and worker injury, with 10-15% of French workplace accidents linked to their use. Additionally, the introduction of AI often leads to 'techno-stress' and low worker acceptance, hindering digital transition.

The solution

What was built

A set of 23 technical building blocks, didactic materials, and a support system for 10 industrial application experiments focusing on human-centric robotics.

Audience

Who needs this

SME robotics integratorsIndustrial machine manufacturersFactory health and safety officersCircular economy refurbishment firms
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Automotive Parts Manufacturing
SME
Target: Tier 2 Component Supplier

If you are a component supplier dealing with high rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among staff — this project developed 23 technical building blocks that integrate AI and robotics to reduce physical strain. This helps lower the number of workers suffering from MSD and increases overall productivity.

Industrial Machinery
mid-size
Target: Machine Tool Manufacturer

If you are a machine manufacturer dealing with the high cost of decommissioning old equipment — this project developed standardized, non-hazardous dismantling processes. This reduces the time and cost of machine retrofit and refurbishment while supporting a circular economy.

Electronics Assembly
SME
Target: Robotics Integrator

If you are an integrator dealing with low worker trust and 'techno-stress' during AI deployment — this project developed a worker-centric approach and didactic tools. This improves user acceptance and trust in collaborative robots, speeding up the adoption of Industry 5.0 technologies.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost of implementing these solutions?

Based on available project data, the project provided 200 k€ grants to each of the 10 selected Application Experiments to support the uptake of these technologies.

Can this be scaled to a full industrial plant?

The project focuses on 10 specific Application Experiments and provides 23 technical building blocks designed to help SMEs integrate these tools into their production machines.

Who owns the IP and how is licensing handled?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not listed, but the project provides business support and mentoring to SMEs to lower technical and business barriers.

Does this comply with EU safety regulations?

Yes, the project is specifically aligned with the EC strategic framework for Health and Safety at Work to protect the health and safety of workers.

How long does it take to integrate these tools?

The project period runs from 2022-09-01 to 2026-02-28, with specific focus on shortening the time and cost of dismantling and refurbishment processes.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is well-balanced for technology transfer, consisting of 12 partners across 5 countries. With a 33% industry ratio (4 industrial partners and 5 SMEs), the project ensures that the 5 research organizations and 1 university are building tools that meet actual market needs. The heavy presence of SMEs suggests a focus on practical, scalable tools rather than theoretical research.

How to reach the team

Contact the Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives (CEA) in France.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to access the 23 technical building blocks for your robotics integration.

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