Exploring the future of human–machine collaboration

Konecranes’ auditorium in Hyvinkää headquarters. In the picture participants are joining the networking roulette to pitch why companies should connect with them.

Robots, research, and real-world applications

The event included six keynotes, each offering a unique perspective into the development of robotics. Speakers from both the robotics and manufacturing sectors shared insights into the latest advancements in automation technology, with a particular focus on how robotics is set to transform the material handling industry in the coming decades.

One of the highlights of the event were the live robots - ABB’s collaborative robot GoFa, Probot’s humanoid robot Arska1, and Konecranes’ four-legged robot that brought the real-world applications close to participants. These demonstrations underscored the practical applications of robotics in real industrial settings and sparked lively discussions about the potential for collaboration between humans, humanoids, and autonomous machines.

"We strive to understand what the current state-of-the-art robotics is capable of, particularly in the areas of intralogistics, inspections, and worker safety enhancements", explains  Mikael Haag, Konecranes Research Funding Manager. “Our new humanoid and four-legged robots will serve as learning platforms as we explore how these technologies can work seamlessly with cranes and other equipment.”

  A four-legged robot, one of Konecranes’ newest colleagues drawing  attention at Robotics Day.

Strengthening collaboration for a sustainable future

Robotics Day was organized as part of the Zero4 programme, reflecting the shared commitment of Konecranes and Business Finland to drive innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness in Finnish industry. For Konecranes, the focus is on business growth, sustainability, and safety, while Business Finland is dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness, productivity, and sustainability of Finnish companies.

Events like Robotics Day are crucial for fostering partnerships and shaping the future of automation technology. During Robotics Day, Business Finland extended an invitation for new industrial and research partners to join the ecosystem. Today, technologies such as robotics and AI are no longer optional, but essential for productivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Co-innovation and collaborative efforts are needed to turn these technologies into new, actionable products, services, and business models. 

ABB GoFa, a collaborative robot that ABB’s partner Trimaster Oy has used to implement a palletizing application that, under certain conditions, can operate without additional safety devices.

Building tomorrow's industry through networking

One of the key objectives of Robotics Day was to foster dialogue among Finnish companies, research institutions, and universities interested in robotics. This was achieved through a series of presentations and interactive discussions. The event concluded with a dynamic networking session, where attendees were invited to give short pitches on why others should connect with them – generating new contacts and facilitating knowledge exchange. Robotics Day also spread awareness of how various industries in Finland are already leveraging robotics.

"I could feel the energy in the room during presentations and discussions. There was a mutual understanding that robotics play a critical role in driving competitive improvement and boosting efficiency within the Finnish industry”, tells Franz Schulte, Konecranes Chief Technology Officer.

“We see significant potential for these technologies in areas such as intralogistics, inspections, and enhancing worker safety—key priorities that guide our learning journey. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, we are eager to discover how state-of-the-art robotics can transform the future of industry”, Schulte continues.

Interested in hearing more? Contact Program Leader & Research Fund Manager Mikael Haag (mikael.haag@konecranes.com).