Practise makes perfect – it is an adage that has helped humans become highly dexterous and now it is an approach that is being applied to robots. Computer scientists at the University of Leeds are using the artificial intelligence (AI) techniques of automated planning and reinforcement learning to "train" a robot to find an object in a cluttered space, such as a warehouse shelf or in a fridge – and move it. The aim is to develop robotic autonomy, so the machine can assess the unique circumstances presented in a task and find a solution – akin to a robot transferring skills and knowledge to a new problem. The Leeds researchers are presenting their findings today (Monday, November 4) at the International Conference on Intelligent Robotics and Systems in Macau, China. The big challenge is that in a confined area, a robotic arm may not be able to grasp an object from above.