Are Service Robotics the Future of Home Automation?

Robots that frequently interact with humans might appear to be a vision in the distant future. However, in reality, robots are already impacting our lives.

Robots can perform various tasks previously carried out by human workers, particularly in the commercial and manufacturing industries.

 

Robots perform a variety of dangerous jobs that are repetitive in such environments.

The tasks of robots are usually designed to replace human labor that’s “dull, dirty and dangerous,” this is usually the situation in both the commercial and industrial sectors. 

In a growing way, robots are being integrated into people’s daily lives and taking on the burden of boring dangerous, dirty tasks.

What Is A Service Robot?

Robots have been used to perform industrial tasks such as factories for several years. Robotics technology is now being applied more often to medical and commercial tasks.

Certain robots completely substitute the human workforce. Some enhance or complement humans to carry out specific tasks. 

For instance, the da Vinci Surgical System works alongside surgeons who guide the robotic system through minimally-invasive procedures.

The service robots have a similar design design to robots used in these situations; however, they are usually used to perform home-based work. 

The International Organization for Standardization defines a “service robot” as a robot that can perform useful tasks for humans.

Robots can be designed to look human-like; however, they are usually created in a way best suited to the job being performed. 

In any form, they operate through an in-built control mechanism and are programmed to complete semi-autonomous or fully autonomous tasks. 

For service robots, the tasks are designed to aid humans.

• Personal Service Robots in Use Today
• Home-based robots can perform tasks in three major areas: household chores, security, and entertainment.

Service robots assist homeowners with chores such as:

• Vacuuming, cleaning, and other tasks
• Lawn cutting
• Cleaning the pool
• Cleaning gutters
• Litter box cleaning

Service robots improve security for homes by using automated web cameras that detect, record, and alert homeowners of security breaches and alert intruders to leave the premises. These robots perform the role of human security guards.

The entertainment robots can control audio systems, store and manage media, and perform tasks such as serving drinks to guests at parties. 

The Makr Shakr is one example is a bar with a robotic system that creates cocktails with amazing accuracy. 

Although this technology isn’t yet accessible for use at home, the manufacturer plans to launch an at-home version within the next few years.

The main goal of individual service robots is to be in a position to be operated by non-technical people with no technical background.

Personal Service Robot Examples

In the last few years, innovations in robotics have resulted in robots that are integrated with Artificial Intelligence (AI), which can “learn” and adapt. Modern robots can make decisions on their own.

Robots are always arriving on the market, ready to replace household chores that homeowners are known to dislike. Here are a few robots to take a look at.

FoldiMate

The FoldiMate is an automated laundry machine that can fold full loads of clothes in just five minutes. 

Although it requires some human interaction, the machine can make fast work of a job which is challenging for many those with physical limitations or just plain dislike folding laundry.

Aeolus

Aeolus is a robotic device that could theoretically take over the tasks of butlers, security guards, and maids. 

The robot’s humanoid form can take on housekeeping tasks, serve in the role of a health alarm and even monitor the property through cameras built into the system, as well as other tasks routine and specialized. 

The company expects Aeolus to make a home in more homes in the next few years.

AIBO Robot Dog

When Sony released their initial AIBO robotic dog back in 1999, the company did not have much success; however, they’ve continued to improve the robot dog’s companionship. 

The most recent version is a more realistic and AI-enhanced model that can discover its surroundings and establish relationships with human owners. 

AIBO could perform some of the duties carried out by service dogs without the hassle of taking care of a dog.

Litter-Robot

One of the most stressful pet-owner chores is changing the litter box for your cat. 

The answer is the appropriately-named Litter Robot that performs exactly as one would think. 

Owners must still empty the waste bin that is attached. However, the actual scooping task is handled with the help of the machine.

Cue The CleverBot

It’s time to play the CleverBot is programmed with artificial intelligence from the next generation that emulates emotional intelligence and theoretically allows the bot to create a character. 

The new friend will respond to messages with memes, jokes, and even what seems like real conversations. 

Although this robot might appear only aimed at entertainment, it could be extremely beneficial to people struggling to develop social skills due to many reasons.