MANUFACTOR
A Multi-Agent System for Cognitive and Physical Augmentation in Manufacturing.
Project Duration: 2026-05-01 – 2029-04-30
FUNDER: EUROPEAN COMMISSION (HORIZON)
PARTNERS: Uppsala University (XRIA LAb) and 13 other partners across Europe.
MANUFACTOR is a Horizon Europe–funded research project that aims to empower industrial operators and managers through integrated cognitive and physical augmentation technologies. Aligned with Industry 5.0 principles, the project combines extended reality (XR), multi-agent artificial intelligence, human digital twins, and multimodal sensing to support safer, more productive, and more sustainable manufacturing systems.
At the core of MANUFACTOR is an intelligent multi-agent platform that orchestrates real-time data from wearable sensors, vision systems, and XR interfaces to assess operator posture, workload, stress, and task progression. Based on this information, the system delivers adaptive XR guidance, ergonomic support, and explainable decision support for both operators and managers. A strong focus is placed on transparency, trustworthiness, and compliance with European regulations such as the EU AI Act and GDPR.
The MANUFACTOR solutions are validated in industrial pilots and learning factories, demonstrating how integrated human augmentation can improve training efficiency, reduce cognitive and physical strain, and enhance operational performance.
ARTISAN YouTube
Agentic Reality Training in Skill Acquisition for Next-Generation Manufacturing.
Project Duration: 2025-09-01 – 2028-08-31
FUNDER: Sweden's Innovation Agency (Vinnova)
PARTNERS: AugmentedRealm, Hitachi Energy, Solme, Ekets Group, and Uppsala University (XRIA LAb).
The project focuses on capturing expert knowledge and delivering real-time, immersive guidance to new operators through XR headsets. Combining AI-based process analysis, multimodal data capture, and contextual XR interfaces, the system helps operators learn complex tasks directly on the shop floor—without requiring direct supervision. Key capabilities include voice-guided instructions, object recognition, and adaptive step-by-step support based on user actions and task context. The goal is to accelerate training, reduce errors, and retain critical expertise in an increasingly automated industrial landscape. Designed for flexibility and scalability, ARTISAN offers a practical solution for improving workforce readiness across a range of manufacturing environments. By integrating advanced AI and XR technologies, ARTISAN supports smarter, faster industrial learning and contributes to the digital transformation of Swedish industry.
AI-COMPETE
Coordinated Multi-Agent AI-Powered DEcision SupporT SystEm for Sustainable Manufacturing
Project Duration: 2025-09-01 – 2028-08-31
FUNDER: Sweden's Innovation Agency (Vinnova)
PARTNERS: University of Skövde, Volvo Penta, Scania, Daloc AB, Evoma AB and Uppsala University (XRIA Lab).
The project focuses on developing a multi-agent AI system that enables intelligent, real-time decision-making for production planning and energy optimization. The system integrates reinforcement learning, digital twin simulations, and coordinated decision-making across multiple AI agents. These agents work together to align production schedules with renewable energy availability, reduce energy consumption, and resolve production bottlenecks—all while maintaining or improving productivity. A key ambition is to deliver a solution that is scalable, explainable, and easy to adopt—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises that often lack the resources for large infrastructure changes. By combining advanced AI techniques with practical validation in real manufacturing settings, AI-COMPETE aims to accelerate the adoption of AI in the Swedish industrial sector and contribute to national and EU climate goals.
PUMA2025
Educating Machine Design with Extended Reality
Project Duration: 2025-09-01 – 2026-08-31
FUNDER: Uppsala University
PARTNERS: XRIA Lab and Division of Applied Mechanics.
This project develops an XR learning environment to teach machine design in the Mechanical Engineering program at Uppsala University. By integrating XR as a virtual lab, students can explore and interact with complex mechanical components—such as shafts, bearings, and gears—in realistic 3D contexts. The project aims to reduce cognitive load, improve understanding of design principles, and increase student engagement.
VFS2024
VFS: Verification for Collaboration project- Strategic partnership with Hitachi Energy
Project Duration: 2024-09-01 – 2025-08-31
FUNDER: Uppsala Innovation Center
PARTNERS: XRIA Lab, and Hitachi Energy.
The project aims to address the complex challenge of improving the training, service, and marketing of tap changers, critical components in transformers characterized by intricate mechanical parts and sophisticated thermal behavior leading to a system with multiphysics interactions. Tap changers' complexity makes them challenging to understand, maintain, and market effectively, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs. Considering the significance of transformers in transferring electricity, this collaboration will lead to the modernization of electricity transfer technology and have an impact toward green transition.
PUMA2023 YouTube
Immersive Technology for Educating Mechanical Engineers; HoloMech an Application in Mixed Reality.
Project Duration: 2023-09-01 – 2024-08-31
FUNDER: Uppsala University
PARTNERS: XRIA Lab and Division of Applied Mechanics.
This project developed HoloMech, a mixed-reality application for teaching Solid Mechanics in engineering education. By combining interactive 3D visualization and hands-on experiences with HoloLens, the project aimed to reduce cognitive load, improve students’ understanding of complex concepts, and increase engagement. HoloMech was implemented as a virtual lab in the Solid Mechanics course at Uppsala University and evaluated through both quantitative and qualitative methods.
