History of the Association
The Swiss Robotics Association (SRA) has a rich history rooted in both the Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Robotics and the Robotics Innovation Booster (IBR) powered by Innosuisse (Swiss Innovation Agency)
Over the years, we have evolved to expand our scope and impact, fostering innovation and collaboration in the field of robotics.
Present
Continuing the Legacy
Today, the Swiss Robotics Association continues to build on the legacy of NCCR Robotics.
We support cutting-edge research, foster industry-academic partnerships, and engage with the public to promote the benefits of robotics technology.
Our commitment to innovation and collaboration remains unwavering as we look to the future.
2024
Transition to Swiss Robotics Association
In 2024, recognizing the need to broaden our impact and support a wider range of activities, the Swiss Robotics Association (SRA) was officially launched, building on the legacy and achievements of NCCR Robotics. This transition marks a new chapter, expanding our mission to support innovation, education, and collaboration across the entire robotics ecosystem in Switzerland.
2019
Major Breakthroughs
NCCR Robotics achieved several major breakthroughs in 2019, including the development of advanced prosthetics, disaster response robots, and significant contributions to AI and machine learning in robotics. These achievements garnered international recognition and set new standards in the field.
2017
Swiss Robotics Day Inception
In 2017, NCCR Robotics launched the first Swiss Robotics Day, an annual event bringing together researchers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts to showcase the latest advancements and foster collaboration. The event has since become a cornerstone of our community engagement.
2015
Expanding Collaboration
By 2015, NCCR Robotics had expanded its collaboration network, partnering with international research institutions and industry leaders. This period marked the beginning of large-scale projects and increased funding, driving innovation and practical applications of robotics.
2010-2014
Early Achievements
During its initial years, NCCR Robotics made significant strides in developing robotic technologies. Key achievements included groundbreaking research in medical robotics, wearable robots, and autonomous systems. These early successes laid the foundation for a robust research community.
2009
Establishment of NCCR Robotics
The journey began in 2009 with the establishment of NCCR Robotics, a Swiss national initiative aimed at advancing research and innovation in robotics. NCCR Robotics brought together leading Swiss institutions and researchers to tackle fundamental challenges in the field.
About NCCR
The NCCR Robotics Legacy
Switzerland is at the forefront of robotics, thanks to its top-class universities and research centers, a vibrant ecosystem of start-ups and established companies, and pioneering experiences in robotics education.
From 2010 to 2022, the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Robotics played a key role in developing the Swiss robotics scene. It developed a new generation of robots capable of working side by side with humans, helping fight disabilities, facing emergencies, and transforming education.
The National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Robotics was a nationwide Swiss organization funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. NCCR Robotics gathered top researchers from across the country, focused on developing human-oriented robotic technologies to improve quality of life. Established on December 1st, 2010, the NCCR operated for 12 years, coming to an end on November 30th, 2022.
Key Research Areas
Wearable Robotics
NCCR Robotics’ Grand Challenge was to create a new generation of wearable robotic systems that were more comfortable for patients and usable in clinical environments. These technologies supported rehabilitation for individuals recovering from cardiovascular accidents and spinal cord injuries. They were also designed to assist with physiotherapy by encouraging brain network repairs (neurorehabilitation) and to serve as assistive devices (e.g., prosthetic limbs and exoskeletons) for those with mobility challenges in daily life.
Example projects:
Rescue Robotics
In disaster scenarios such as earthquakes or floods, sending rescue teams into dangerous areas is often too risky. NCCR Robotics developed durable and portable rescue robots capable of operating in these hazardous environments. These robots were designed to assess dangerous areas, locate victims, and relay information back to rescue teams. Robots also carried medical supplies and food to concentrate resources where they were most needed.
The main challenges included designing robots that were easily transportable, functional in extreme weather, and equipped with long-lasting power. Additionally, these robots needed self-navigation abilities and highly effective sensors to locate victims.
Example projects:
Educational Robotics
In the 1970s and 1980s, robots were initially introduced in classrooms to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. However, their adoption in schools was slow due to high costs, unreliability, and limited application.
Today, robots are much more affordable and easier to deploy. Over the past 15 years, there has been a significant rise in extracurricular robotics activities, showing the growing popularity of robotics as a tool for informal education. However, in formal education, robots are still underused. Studies suggest that teachers play a critical role in the adoption of new technology in schools.
Example projects:
Watch Our Journey
See how NCCR Robotics shaped Swiss robotics with our videos
Become a Member of the Swiss Robotics Association
Why Join?
Membership offers exclusive access to industry events, educational resources, and professional development opportunities, helping you stay at the forefront of robotics innovation. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, being part of our community connects you with the resources and network needed to succeed.