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Multi-million grant for research on safe control of autonomous robots

Published online: 11.12.2025

Associate Professor Shahab Heshmati-Alamdari from Aalborg University has received a grant of DKK 3.16 million from the Independent Research Fund Denmark for a three-year project on safe and intelligent control of mobile robots in densely populated environments.

News

Multi-million grant for research on safe control of autonomous robots

Published online: 11.12.2025

Associate Professor Shahab Heshmati-Alamdari from Aalborg University has received a grant of DKK 3.16 million from the Independent Research Fund Denmark for a three-year project on safe and intelligent control of mobile robots in densely populated environments.

By Mathias Pedersen, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photo: Frank Rasmussen

The project, carried out at the Department of Electronic Systems, Section of Automation & Control, aims to develop new strategies for autonomous robots so they can navigate safely among people in crowded areas.

Instead of relying on fixed rules, the project explores data-driven control methods that enable robots to adapt to complex human movement patterns while maintaining safety and performance. The methods will be tested through advanced simulations and real-world experiments.

Societal relevance

The project has the potential to make a difference in areas such as hospitals, public transportation, urban distribution logistics, and emergency situations—where safe and efficient coexistence between humans and robots is crucial. It supports Denmark’s strategic goals of fostering innovation in autonomous systems, improving traffic safety, and promoting technological solutions for sustainable urban development.

Facts

  • Funding body: Independent Research Fund Denmark
  • Project title: NexSafe: Learning-Based Motion Planning with Safety Barriers for Intelligent Robots in Dynamic Environments
  • Period: 2026–2029
  • Grant amount: DKK 3,162,690
  • Department: Department of Electronic Systems

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