Robonomics is an open-source platform designed to integrate Internet of Things (IoT) devices and robotics into the Web3 ecosystem. It facilitates secure, decentralized communication between humans and machines through blockchain technology. At its core, Robonomics allows devices to:
This creates a machine-to-machine (M2M) economy where devices can interact without human intervention.
Robonomics makes use of the following technologies:
1. Blockchain: Provides a secure, immutable ledger for recording transactions between devices.
2. Digital Twins: Each robot or IoT device has a digital twin—a virtual representation that mirrors its real-world state and behavior.
3. Smart Contracts: These are self-executing programs that automate agreements between machines, such as paying for services or sharing data.
4. Decentralized Cloud: Unlike traditional cloud services, Robonomics offers a decentralized infrastructure for storing and processing device data.
Robonomics is built on top of the Substrate framework, the same technology that powers the Polkadot network. This allows Robonomics to operate as a parachain within Polkadot’s ecosystem, gaining access to shared security, scalability, and interoperability with other parachains. Additionally, Robonomics maintains compatibility with Ethereum, making it possible for robots and IoT devices to interact with Ethereum-based smart contracts using standard Web3 tools.
The platform introduces a specialized transaction model tailored for machine-to-machine communication. Devices can send launch commands (which trigger tasks), publish demand messages (to request services), and respond with offer messages (to confirm task completion or share telemetry data). These messages are cryptographically signed and recorded on-chain, providing transparency, traceability, and automation without relying on central authorities.
To manage larger data such as sensor outputs or AI models, Robonomics integrates with decentralized storage systems like IPFS (InterPlanetary File System). It also utilizes off-chain workers—dedicated processes that handle computational tasks without overloading the blockchain itself. Each connected device is assigned a unique cryptographic keypair, allowing it to securely sign transactions, authenticate itself on the network, and operate independently. This combination of blockchain-backed identity, decentralized storage, and automated smart contracts forms the core infrastructure for autonomous robotic systems operating within Web3.
According to a study by Berezina et al. (2019), robots are already being used as chefs, food runners, and bartenders. Robonomics could take this further by enabling autonomous kitchens to manage inventory, place orders, and even pay suppliers via smart contracts.
A study in Finland examined the social acceptance of food delivery robots, highlighting their growing role in logistics. Robonomics can manage these robots' routes, payments, and data securely on-chain.
In cities like Bydgoszcz, Poland, robotic process automation (RPA) is used for tasks like electricity billing. Robonomics can integrate such systems with IoT sensors and blockchain for real-time energy management.
Robonomics represents a significant advancement in integrating IoT devices and robotics with blockchain technology. It opens new possibilities across various sectors, from home automation to industrial processes and smart city development.
