Robotics and autonomous systems
Pushing the frontiers of robotics research
To keep up with today’s high-tech demands, advanced factories are using robotic platforms and autonomous systems that are capable of carrying out a set of complex tasks at high speeds and in dangerous environments.
Robust research community and advanced facilities
With more than 25 state-of-the-art research labs in the robotics and autonomous systems field, ASU drives positive change in society by collaboratively pursuing advancements in robotics technologies, systems and education. A robust community of faculty, students and researchers solves problems in collaboration with industry, government and the public. These relationships allow all parties involved to produce the most impact possible, solving problems more quickly and effectively than they would on their own.
Hands-on innovation and entrepreneurial mentorship
ASU nurtures the next generation of robotics researchers through innovative educational practices and hands-on lab experiences. The robotics and autonomous systems program includes opportunities to develop creative abilities and apply their learning to real-world problems with capstone and applied projects presented within the Innovation Showcase.
Spring 2026 projects
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Autonomous navigation systems often struggle to interpret natural language commands and identify objects in indoor environments. This project addresses that challenge by developing a mobile robot that can understand user instructions and explore spaces to locate specified items. The system…
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Automating assembly processes requires coordination between robotics, control systems and material flow. This project addresses that challenge by developing a miniature automated automotive assembly line that demonstrates key manufacturing principles. The system integrates robotic manipulation, programmable logic control and precision…
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Demonstrating industrial automation concepts in a controlled setting requires systems that replicate real-world processes. This project addresses that challenge by developing a small-scale automated assembly line for vehicle construction. The system integrates robotic arms, programmable logic controllers, sensors and custom…
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Packaging processes can require significant manual effort and coordination across multiple steps. This project addresses that challenge by developing an automated system for chocolate truffle packaging. The system integrates conveyors, robotics and programmable logic control to coordinate box setup, product…
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Producing packaged food products consistently can require coordinated automation and quality control. This project addresses that challenge by developing an automated system for assembling boxed chocolate assortments. The system integrates robotic arms, programmable logic control and vision-based inspection to manage…
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Engaging prospective students in engineering requires clear demonstrations of real-world applications and opportunities. This project addresses that need by presenting a live demonstration that highlights engineering work and programs at the Polytechnic campus. The demonstration showcases hands-on activities and examples…
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Handling semiconductor wafers requires precise control to avoid damage while maintaining efficient production. This project addresses that challenge by developing an automated system that moves, inspects and sorts wafers using robotic arms, conveyors and vision-based detection. The system is designed…
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Semiconductor wafer processing requires precise handling and inspection to maintain quality and efficiency. This project addresses that challenge by developing an automated workstation for laser imprinting and inspection. The system integrates robotic arms, a conveyor mechanism and wafer handling methods…
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Autonomous navigation in dynamic environments requires systems that can plan paths while avoiding moving obstacles. This project addresses that challenge by developing a Pac-Man inspired mobile robot that maps its environment and navigates to collect virtual targets. The system uses…
Thank you for joining us at the Spring 2026 Innovation Showcase
This event took place on Friday, May 1, 2026, in the
Sun Devil Fitness Complex, on the Polytechnic campus at ASU.
Morning session: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Afternoon session: 3–5 p.m.
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