When many of us were younger, we thought the future held jetpacks and helper robots for us. Helper robots, especially, are exciting. It seems like, particularly with all the latest advancements in robotics, we should have robots that can clean our house, make us breakfast, and pick out our clothing in the morning, like Rosie did on the Jetsons.
BoingBoing recently posted an amusing video titled “Thanks a lot, robot friend” that highlights the issue we are currently facing with helper bots. In it we see a robot who attempts to pour a beer while holding a bowl of strawberries in the other hand. You will observe when you watch the video that the robot misses its mark, spilling liquid everywhere, then its arm falls off. It’s a fairly absurd example of how far we have to go before we have helper robots in our home.
Washing Your Hair the Robotic Way
Panasonic, though, is taking the initiative. The company last year revealed its Hair-Washing Robot. Truly. This robot can wet, shampoo, rinse, and condition your hair. It will also provide you with a spot massage. Obviously, you can do all of this yourself, without the assistance of a robot. To be fair, the robot is designed for elderly residents who might need the help.
The Robot Bed
Panasonic also announced a robotic bed that transforms into an electric wheelchair. You can see how the elderly or disabled would find this invaluable. So, there are some helper bots out there made for people who actually need them, as opposed to those of us who would like to be lazy and not do house work. Regardless, it seems like we are well on our way to having the world of 1950s science fiction come into reality.
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