Quote "By 2030, Grandpa could be zipping down the road to visit his grandkids or go to the grocery store even though he's legally blind. The car would be navigating, steering, obeying traffic lights and recognizing and avoiding obstacles and other cars. "
Researchers: Machines may soon be able to perform human tasks SAN FRANCISCO - A robot could be your next nanny. Or your next butler, bodyguard, golf teacher or pet. Or even your next best friend. Picture "The Jetsons," only better.
Some of the country's leading robotics experts gathered here recently at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science to present their latest research and talk about a future rife with robots.
"Home robots will happen a lot faster than you think," said roboticist David Calkins of California State University, San Francisco. In addition to a maid-bot akin to George and Jane's Rosie, your future could include: -A huggable teddy bear that tutors your kids in Spanish or French; -An autonomous car that drives you to work while you nap, eat or prepare your PowerPoint presentation; -A Chihuahua-sized pet dinosaur that learns whether you like to cuddle, play or be left alone; -A computer that can move its screen to help your posture or match your task or mood; -A party-bot that greets your guests at the door, introduces them in case you've forgotten their names and entertains them with music, jokes and finger food.
It may sound like science fiction, but some of these robots might be knocking on your door in just a few years or even months.
These robots will use a range of new technology including voice, face, pattern and emotion recognition software; the ability to walk rather than roll on wheels; wireless capability Etc.
Return To Technology and Medical News PageCreated on ... March 09, 2007