MAGICIAN Open Call 1

Scope of the Open Call

This open call focuses on expanding the functionalities of the MAGICIAN project’s robotic solutions. By working closely with MAGICIAN partners, applicants will contribute to enhancing the capabilities of the SR and CR through technologies such as advanced defect detection algorithms, optimized rework techniques, and AI-driven performance enhancements in real-time production environments.

The MAGICIAN system integrates collaborative robotics, AI-powered defect identification and correction, and user-friendly design principles. Its core functionalities include:

• Collaborative Robotic Platforms
  • Defect Detection (SR): Utilizes advanced visual and tactile sensors to identify surface imperfections in manufacturing.
  • Defect Reworking (CR): Features a high-precision robotic arm and specialized tools for correcting detected flaws.
• Human-Robot Interaction
  • User-friendly interfaces to ensure seamless collaboration between workers and robots.
  • End-user involvement in design and testing phases to enhance safety and usability.
• Perception and Learning Systems
  • Multi-modal detection combining visual and tactile data for precise defect classification.
  • AI models enabling skill transfer from human workers to robots through Learning from Demonstrations (LfD).
• Control and Motion Systems
  • Advanced motion and force control for accurate defect correction.
  • Smart scheduling tools for optimizing robotic workflows.
• Ethical and Social Considerations
  • Incorporating ethical, social, and inclusivity factors in robotic design and deployment.
  • Ongoing assessments of the impact on workers' well-being, including trust, safety, and job satisfaction.
• Optimization and Validation
  • Tools for adapting robotic configurations to different manufacturing scenarios.
  • Real-time defect detection and correction mechanisms, particularly for welding processes.
• Data and AI Integration
  • High-quality datasets for training AI-driven defect detection and correction models.
  • Application of advanced analytical techniques such as deep learning, FFT, and PCA for defect assessment.

For further information on funded projects, refer to the detailed guidelines provided.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure impartiality, applications from individuals or organizations affiliated with MAGICIAN consortium members will not be accepted. This includes entities formally linked to the consortium partners as defined under Horizon Europe’s guidelines on conflict of interest.

Eligible Countries:Funding is available to legal entities established in:

• European Union (EU) Member States, including overseas territories.
• Horizon Europe Associated Countries.

Entities from other regions are not eligible for funding under this call. The full list of eligible countries can be found in the Horizon Europe documentation.

Targeted Businesses:This funding opportunity is open to:

• Startups
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Businesses must comply with the European Commission’s SME classification to qualify.

Funding Details

Successful applicants can receive a maximum of €200,000 per project, with the following funding structure:

• SMEs: Up to 70% of eligible project costs covered.
• Startups: Up to 100% of eligible project costs covered.

Applicants must provide a detailed budget, outlining costs and resource allocations aligned with project milestones and deliverables. Funding is distributed in three stages:

1. Initial Payment (up to 50%) - Provided after a successful Kick-off Meeting (KoM).
2. Mid-term Payment (up to 35%) - Disbursed upon submission and approval of a progress report.
3. Final Payment (up to 15%) - Released upon successful completion of all milestones and deliverables.

Key funding rules include:

• A maximum of 15% of the budget can be allocated to subcontracting tasks not executable by MAGICIAN partners or third parties.
• No profit may be generated from the European Commission’s funding allocation.

Key Information

• Programme: Cascade Funding Hub
• Funding Available: Up to €200,000 per project
• Application Opens: 3rd February 2025
• Application Closes: 2nd May 2025

For more details and to apply, visit our official funding page.

‍