Robot barista joins catering team at University of Strathclyde

A robot barista has been unveiled as the newest member of the University of Strathclyde’s catering team.

The collaborative robot – or ‘cobot’ – is capable of crafting cappuccinos, flat whites and lattes and operates in the University’s Technology and Innovation Centre.

The project behind the machine was inspired when Strathclyde’s catering team spotted a robotic barista in operation during a study tour to Stanford University.

Linking the University’s catering team, the robotics & autonomous systems research group, and local coffee partner Matthew Algie, the machine was designed and tested by PHD students on the university campus.

University of Strathclyde Catering food & beverage assistant Donna Bowers with the cobot. University of Strathclyde via Supplied

The robot, which emulates human movements with custom ‘gripper’ fingers, is believed to be the first used commercially in this way on a Scottish university campus.

The university has stressed, however, that the cobot is not there to replace staff, and is instead there to “support”.

Joanne Martin, deputy head of catering and hospitality at Strathclyde, said: “The cobot has been designed to work alongside our fantastic team members, supporting rather than replacing them, and helping to improve all-around service and operational efficiency.

“Our staff fully embrace this innovative technology, recognising the benefits it brings to their physical wellbeing by reducing repetitive, physically demanding tasks, while allowing them to focus on delivering excellent customer service.”

Mohamed Khedr added: “The joy of this project was its interactive nature. So often you design something or come up with a design solution that doesn’t become something tangible, so to see this become a reality is great. Already there’s a great buzz on campus about it.”

The second phase of the project will see students research and develop enhancements to the cobot’s functionality and customer experience.

Leading the project, head of catering and hospitality, Graham Paterson said: “The initiative is a great example of University values in action, with a people-focused approach to the use of technology to enhance operations.”