Robotics

While the robotic butler, anticipating and responding to one’s every need, is still far from reality, research and development projects continue in earnest around the globe. Robotics have become commonplace in the manufacturing environment (particularly in Japan, the EU, and the US), where repetitive tasks of physical manipulation have replaced human hands. However, in the home, where tasks are varied and contextual, robotics has not yet become commercially viable (with the notable exception of robotic floor cleaning devices). Much work in robotics continues in the laboratory environment, with some notable work being done in academic environments, some of which has led to production, if not significant uptake of robotic devices. Examples include:

An early pilot project for mobile service robots, the NurseBot Project (including participation from Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh, University of Michigan, amongst others), focused on testing the effectiveness of a mobile robot in addressing issues such as:

• Intelligent reminding (appointments, medications, etc.)
• Medical data collection and surveillance
• Mobile manipulation (overcoming barriers imposed by arthritic conditions)
• Social interaction
• Providing a physical presence for remote health-care providers

Currently, mobile service robots are in production, but with initial costs in the neighborhood of USD 20,000, these are likely out of reach for most consumers.  They are more likely to be found in hospital settings where they can be used to provide a presence for a remote physician, as he or she makes virtual rounds to visit a number of patients.