The 2014 International Trade Fair on Automation and Mechatronics took place in Munich, Germany. During the opening ceremony, Nelly Kellers, Vice-Chairman of the European Commission and Commissioner for Digital and Telecommunications Policy, announced the launch of the "Sparks" program: a 2.8 billion euro investment aimed at advancing civilian robotics by 2020. The name "Sparks" was chosen to symbolize the hope that this initiative would ignite economic growth across Europe, making it more dynamic and sustainable.
According to the European Commission, the Sparks program is currently the largest civilian robot research and development project globally. It is expected to create 240,000 jobs, enhancing Europe's industrial competitiveness and giving the region a new edge in the global market. The program is a collaboration between the European Commission and the European Robotics Association, an industry group based in Brussels with over 180 leading companies and institutions worldwide. Under the partnership, the Commission will contribute 700 million euros, while the association will provide 2.1 billion euros.
“We are committed to a public-private partnership that maximizes the sharing of ideas and resources,†said Kreis. “This is the best way to ensure that Europe remains at the forefront of global innovation.†Over 200 companies and 12,000 researchers are involved, making it the world’s largest civil robot R&D project. The program covers a wide range of applications, including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, transportation, and safety.
“The robots we are developing are highly advanced, combining cutting-edge technology,†Kellers said excitedly. With support from big data, cloud computing, and mobile internet, these new-generation robots have enhanced self-learning and problem-solving capabilities. One such robot, named Jim, recently made an appearance and expressed his thoughts on the EU R&D project: “The main advantage of EU research projects is bringing together the best researchers from each country into interdisciplinary teams. This allows us to tackle complex scientific challenges that no single partner could handle alone.â€
Robots are increasingly seen as a key driver of industrial growth. Countries like the U.S., Japan, and South Korea have all launched ambitious robotics strategies to secure their positions in the global market. In the U.S., the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Program aims to revitalize the manufacturing sector through intelligent robots. Japan has prioritized robotics as one of its seven key industries, while South Korea has developed a comprehensive plan to expand its robot industry and support domestic companies in international markets.
Dr. Juve Hess, Secretary General of the European Robotics Association, emphasized the growing impact of robots on the economy and society. “Robots can reduce costs, improve working conditions, enhance product quality, and minimize waste,†he said. The global robot market is currently valued at 22 billion euros and is expected to reach between 50 and 62 billion euros by 2020. “This is the most conservative estimate. I believe the value of the robot industry will surpass our expectations, as they are essential for future industrial and service competitiveness.â€
Kellers echoed this sentiment, stating that for Europe to remain competitive, it must fully embrace automation and advanced robotics. “With 34 million workers in Europe, we face intense global competition. Only robots can make our industry invincible.†She also highlighted how robots can benefit not only industry but also agriculture and services, especially in aging societies.
In Italy, a 94-year-old writer named Lee Larry lived with a robot for several months as part of a study exploring the social value of robots. The robot not only assisted with daily tasks but also engaged in meaningful conversations. Larry felt safer and more dignified with the robot than with people. Experts predict that with advancements in cloud-based learning, the cost of small household robots will drop significantly, creating a market worth at least 30 billion euros by 2020.
Despite concerns about job displacement, Kellers pointed out that robots will ultimately create more jobs than they replace. A 2012 European Commission survey found that 70% of respondents feared robots would take their jobs. However, studies show that one industrial robot can create 3.6 jobs. Over the next eight years, robots could generate over two million jobs directly or indirectly.
The Sparks program also aims to boost Europe’s share of the global robotics market. Currently, Europe holds 35% of the market, and the program aims to increase that to 42%. “Leading means wealth,†Kellers said confidently. By investing in robotics, Europe is not only securing its economic future but also paving the way for a more innovative and competitive industrial landscape.
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