Urban automation’s potential to create disruptive technologies that change cities’ future development is already in evidence, but there is much more to come.

Urban automation refers to artificial intelligence, robotics, drones, and sensors are that being deployed in the built environment to support more efficient urban living and improved quality of life. 

While many benefits can be derived from urban automation, its various forms raise issues of access, privacy, safety, trust, control, and automated discrimination, that need to be addressed in its design and deployment.

The panelists of this College of Design Research Forum will explore ethical principles and values from a range of perspectives that include, autonomous vehicles, building AI and sensors, urban supply chain logistics, and disability services.