Robot

The world’s most sophisticated robots do not assemble trucks or cruise around Mars, but they are being designed to help support our surging population of elderly and persons with disabilities.  The rise of helpful machines are assisting individuals to become more independent in their daily living.  The following are some of the robotic devices that are helping individuals:

PerMMa

The only wheelchair with robotic arms, this wheelchair was created at the University of Pittsburg.  Today, 4.3 million Americans rely on wheelchairs with few chairs being ideal for people with physical impairments, such as limited mobility.  Users can control the robotic arms from a touchpad, microphone, or joystick. For now, each arm can support six pounds, but soon a new arm will be created to support up to 150 pounds.  Expect to see this robotic wheelchair on the job by 2020.

Cyclops

Cyclops, a $20,000 four-wheeled robot, is the world’s first stand-in for a visually impaired individual.  Mounted on the Cyclops’s head is a remote-controlled camera that can pivot to capture the same view as the patient, to help guide the individual according to their needs.  The Cyclops should be expected to be on the job this year!

RIBA

RIBA, a forklift for humans, was created at the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Japan.  This robot helps individuals who are too weak to walk, sit, or stand on their own.  RIBA, Robot for Interactive Body Assistance, is the only robot with arms designed to carry those people around.  The robot can also recognize faces and voices and respond to commands, such as “RIBA, please help me off the couch.”  The RIBA should expect to be seen on the job sometime next year.

For more information on the future of robots, visit the Popular Science Website.