Roboclette

Discover the Roboclette, the iconic robot from Workshop 4.0

Discover the Roboclette, the iconic robot that is the essential star of Workshop 4.0. As an emblematic symbol of Valais genius, the Roboclette is the first machine in the world capable of scouring a raclette cheese.

This incredible innovation was born from the collaboration between Emmanuel Pignat, Sylvain Calinon and Nicolas Fontaine, and came to life thanks to the development carried out at the Idiap Research Institute. The dazzling success of the Roboclette was made possible thanks to the contribution of Eddy Baillifard, Valais/Wallis Promotion and Workshop 4.0.

This technological gem demonstrates the full potential of robotics and artificial intelligence research in Valais, combining both tradition and innovation.

Ask for an offer to host the Roboclette during your event

From now on, ask for an offer to have the privilege of hosting the Roboclette at your next event.

Our full service includes the following:

• Transport and installation of the robot
• Presence of a technician on site
• 3 AOP Valdor raclette cheeses, delicious and authentic
• Hugo Reitzel Pickles and Onions for a complete and tasty tasting

Do not miss this unique opportunity to mark the spirits with the presence of the Roboclette during your event. Contact us now to get your personalized offer.

When a robot learns to make traditional Swiss raclette thanks to AI

The association of know-how of master cheese maker Eddy Baillifard, founder of raclett'House, and the expertise of the Robot Learning & Interaction group of the Idiap Research Institute made it possible to produce the first raclette prepared by a robot.

Beyond the technical challenge, this project highlights the potential of demonstration learning techniques and human-robot collaboration.

The know-how of the master cheese maker and expertise in robotics

Eddy Baillifard, master cheese maker and founder of raclett'House, is recognized for his extensive knowledge of the art of raclette. His passion for this traditional Swiss dish led him to perfect the precise and delicate gestures necessary to scrape the melted cheese on the plate. His expertise earned him international fame.

On the other hand, the Robot Learning & Interaction group of the Idiap Research Institute is dedicated to the study of artificial intelligence and human-robot collaboration. Researchers in this group explore the possibilities offered by demonstration learning, a technique that allows a robot to imitate the gestures of a human by observing and recording its movements.

The realization of the first raclette by a robot

The collaboration between Eddy Baillifard and the group Robot Learning & Interaction resulted in an extraordinary achievement: the first raclette prepared by a robot. This project required a combination of cheese and robotic skills to accurately reproduce the characteristic gesture of the raclette.

Emmanuel Pignat, doctoral student in the Idiap robotics group, has developed an innovative approach. By guiding the robot's arm, Eddy Baillifard allowed the robot to record the movements and forces needed to scrape the melted cheese. Thanks to this technique of learning by demonstration, the robot was able to gradually acquire the skills necessary to carry out the raclette independently.

The potential of demonstration learning techniques and human-robot collaboration

This pioneering project highlights the potential of demonstration learning techniques for robots. While robots are typically programmed to perform specific tasks repetitively, demonstration learning allows them to learn new skills by imitating human gestures.

The collaboration between man and robot opens up new perspectives in various fields. Industrial robots, service robots and support robots can benefit from this approach to relieve professionals of repetitive, dangerous or uncomfortable tasks. This allows humans to focus more on tasks requiring specifically human skills, such as supervision, evaluation or decision-making.

In the rest of this article, we will explore in detail the demonstration learning process used to carry out the raclette by the robot. We will also discuss the support given by the Canton of Valais to this collaboration, as well as the meeting between tradition and innovation symbolized by this project.

When tradition and innovation meet

The realization of the raclette by a robot thanks to AI and learning by demonstration is the result of a collaboration supported by the canton of Valais, which recognizes the importance of scientific research in the development of new technologies.

The support of the canton of Valais for collaboration

The canton of Valais has provided financial support for this innovative scientific research. Local authorities have understood the importance of this collaboration between master cheese maker Eddy Baillifard, the Robot Learning & Interaction group of the Idiap Research Institute and other key players.

This financial support made it possible to put in place the necessary resources to carry out the project. It testifies to the commitment of the canton of Valais to technological innovation and the exploration of new borders.

The creation of a specific oven by the TTM company

In order for the robot to seize the plate with the melted cheese, close collaboration with the TTM company was necessary. TTM has created a specific oven with a handle adapted to facilitate the handling of the plate by the robot.

This collaboration between scientific research and industry demonstrates the desire to push the limits and adapt existing tools to meet the specific needs of the project. Technical innovation is thus at the service of the culinary tradition.

Facilitation of contacts by Nicolas Fontaine

Nicolas Fontaine, a young local entrepreneur, played a key role in facilitating contacts between TTM, raclett'House and Valais/Wallis Promotion. His knowledge of the local economic fabric and his commitment to innovation have helped create a synergy between the different actors of the project.

The presence of this young entrepreneur demonstrates the vitality of the entrepreneurial scene in Valais and his ability to create opportunities for collaboration between tradition and innovation.

The representation of the unique mix of tradition and innovation

This project highlights the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that characterizes Valais. The raclette, a symbol of the Swiss culinary tradition, is prepared with the help of advanced technology.

The people involved in this project, whether they are the master cheese designer Eddy Baillifard, researchers from the Robot Learning & Interaction group, industrial partners such as TTM or facilitators like Nicolas Fontaine, represent the exceptional skills present in the Valais region.

This meeting between tradition and innovation illustrates the ability of Valais to combine ancestral know-how and cutting-edge research, thus opening up new perspectives for the future.

Conclusion

The realization of the raclette by a robot thanks to AI and learning by demonstration opens up exciting new perspectives for the collaboration between man and machine. This remarkable project highlights the progress made in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence, as well as their application in fields as diverse as food.

The synergy between tradition and innovation in the Valais

Le Valais perfectly embodies the synergy between tradition and innovation. This region, known for its rich culinary heritage and traditional culture, is also positioned as a hub for cutting-edge innovation and research.

The project of realization of the raclette by a robot is a concrete example. By bringing together the skills of master cheese maker Eddy Baillifard, from the Robot Learning & Interaction group of the Idiap Research Institute, the TTM company and Nicolas Fontaine, this project has combined traditional know-how with the latest technological advances.

Praise the limits through collaboration

This project demonstrates the importance of collaboration between different actors, whether they come from research, industry or entrepreneurship. By working hand in hand, they were able to push the limits and achieve a remarkable achievement.

The collaboration between man and machine, symbolized by the realization of the raclette by the robot, opens up new perspectives in many fields. Demostration learning techniques allow human skills to be transferred to robots, thus easing professionals with repetitive tasks and allowing them to focus on tasks requiring their specific expertise.

The future of human-robot collaboration

The realization of the raclette by a robot is only one example among many of the potential offered by the collaboration between man and machine. Continued advances in AI and robotics are paving the way for new applications and new opportunities for collaboration.

In Valais, this synergy between tradition and innovation continues to flourish. The best talent comes together to push the boundaries and explore new boundaries, creating an environment for innovation and growth.

In the near future, we can expect surprising new achievements resulting from the fruitful collaboration between man and machine, highlighting the exceptional skills present in the Valais region.