The next generation of robotics; the future is in our reach

The developments in the field of robotics are almost impossible to follow. We see and hear a lot of promises that with the use of the technological developments can be achieved. Robots that are extremely human-like and self-learning systems that develop empathy to collaborate with people. The world around robotics is developing very quickly. But there is still a long way to go. Let’s be honest. Besides the many promising marketing videos of the know-it-all robot, we experience these technological marvels still as far away. The interaction is and remains limited. Despite the bright future images we see.

It is incredible what is possible these days and we see that robots are becoming more common in the Dutch households. Even the European Commission thinks about a special regulation of rights and obligations a robot has. Bill Gates wants the robot to be a taxpayer. In addition, we see possibilities of people that are employed by a robot. Employed to consume the goods and services made by robots. How awesome, right?

Robot Cassie

Cassie is the spin off of Oregon State University named Agility Robotics. The robot is an extremely good walker and adapts the human movements. This also by imitating human’s actions. For example, the robot needs to be trained in order to succeed in dangerous situations. They should imitate people and be as flexible as they are. For example, the Fukushima disaster had enough robots, but not the right ones. They were not capable of executing the tasks sufficiently. New flexible robots have to solve this problem in the future. Cassie is able of adapting to any unexpecting environment. It does remind us of Google ATLAS. Cassie also needs to be able of delivering packages. Could you imagine? Cassie at your front door with a Hello Fresh box? Kids will immediately run away. Or they adore it and cannot live without it anymore. This kind of technology can be extremely fascinating for children.

Robot Handle

We can consider Boston Dynamics among the terrifying robots. In February they released a video which shows the potentials of Handle. This robot still needs a lot of research but this piece of high tech is very impressive. The video is therefore widely shared on the internet. The fame of Boston Dynamics and Handle is not lacking. Handle is extremely maneuverable and the video also shows how this is used. For example it shows different positions of how to pick up packags. In addition, Handle can walk and jump under different circumstances. Many people think the demo video of Boston Dynamics as impressive and sometimes frightening. What if you want to run after this robot. Question is whether you are fast enough. Is this the future of robots that we will see in stores in the near future? Or even on the streets?

The future of robotics is difficult to predict. They will have a major impact, be self-learning and even get a sort of consciousness. They will mimic the human body. They will feel warm and soft. And at the same time they will be indestructible. Too much based on the many sci-fi movies as we know them? Probably, Yet all developments in robotics seem to human cloning. Scary or the truth?

The future of robotics? Follow the inspiring lectures of top trend watcher Tony Bosma. Feel free to contact Extend Limits.