Reliable Automation

Our expertise

Reliable Automation researches the safe and robust automation of complex systems where digital control and the physical world are tightly interconnected. We work across disciplines at the intersection of automation, communication, and such integrated systems, from sensor to decision support, applying this expertise across a wide range of markets: industrial automation, energy and smart grids, autonomy, space robotics, agriculture and aquaculture, defence and aerospace, and health technology.

How we work

We develop systems where failure can have serious or catastrophic consequences. We use research-based methods for the development, integration, and testing of high-integrity robotics and automation systems – from proof-of-concept to reliable, operational systems. We enable AI solutions by integrating sensors and industrial data sources in real time.

Our methodology spans from early concept development and model-based systems engineering to hardware prototyping, real-time testing, and piloting in operational environments. We test technology under realistic conditions in our own laboratories – including a real-time lab with precise time synchronization and local 5G, a space technology lab with specialized hardware, and an outdoor robotics lab for autonomous operations.

What sets us apart?

Reliable Automation traces its roots back to the 1950s and the beginning of cybernetics research in Norway under Professor Jens G. Balchen. Our cybernetics environment at SINTEF played a central role in developing the world's first dynamic positioning (DP) system for ships. We continue this tradition: realizing the control and monitoring of critical systems in a practical and reliable way at industrial scale.

As cyberneticists, we see the whole system – from sensors and networks to decision support and autonomous operations – and take our research all the way to commercial products in close collaboration with industry partners. We often work toward higher TRL levels than many other research environments, making us an attractive partner for organizations looking to take new technology from idea to operation.

An international environment

We have close cooperation with ESA, DLR, Thales Alenia Space, GMV, TTTech, and a range of other leading European space actors through ESA- and EU-funded projects in space robotics and real-time communication for satellite constellations. We also collaborate with leading European defence actors through the European Defence Fund (EDF).

Some highlights

• EROSS SC – a European demonstrator for on-orbit servicing: As part of a consortium led by Thales Alenia Space and fully funded by the EU, we are developing standardized interfaces to validate the technology needed to extend satellite lifetimes and reduce space debris.
• "Silent Tools Plus" with Sandvik Teeness: We contributed to the development of a digitalized precision tool that won the award for most groundbreaking manufacturing technology at the IMTS trade show in 2018, and is today a commercial product.
• "e-Line" with Mustad Autoline: The world's first electrified longline equipment for line fishing, significantly reducing energy consumption compared to hydraulic equipment and giving the Norwegian fishing industry a competitive edge internationally.
• Over 40 years of collaboration with Autronica Fire & Gas, where we have played a central role in developing Autronica's current and upcoming fire alarm platforms – most recently in the ISESAP project.
• UltraRob – robotic ultrasound with AI: In this RCN-funded project, we combine robotic soft-tissue interaction with neural networks for image segmentation, demonstrating how our core expertise can also create value in health technology.

How we can help you

Do you want to automate industrial processes in a safe and efficient way?

We can help you with:

• development and testing of automation and robotics solutions, from prototype to commercial product
• design of reliable real-time communication systems and sensor networks
• modelling, simulation, and analysis of integrated automation and control systems
• integration of sensors and industrial data sources as a foundation for AI solutions, including in safety-critical systems
• piloting and implementation of new technology in operational environments
• advice and delivery of digital transformation in industrial automation processes, from technology selection to implementation.

We work with organizations of all sizes and across industries – from start-ups to large international industrial corporations.

Interested in collaborating with us?

We are always open to new collaboration opportunities. Get in touch to learn more about our research and how we can work together to develop safe, efficient, and sustainable automation solutions.

You can collaborate with us through research and innovation projects, strategic advisory work, testing and piloting in our laboratories, or through long-term partnerships in digitalization and automation. We also welcome collaboration with guest researchers and students who want to contribute to the reliable automation solutions of the future.