Robots of the Future

Introduction to Future Robots

• Common perception of robots: metallic, humanoid forms (e.g., Boston Dynamics).
• Future robots might be soft, flexible, and diverse in shapes to ensure safety in human interaction.
• Example: Baymax from "Big Hero 6" instead of Sonny from "I, Robot."

Compilation of Video Content

• Video consists of five segments discussing different robotic designs and their purposes.
• Collaboration with Dr. Elliot Hawkes, discussing advancements in jumping robots.

Advancements in Jumping Robots

• New designs for jumping robots that do not use springs.
• Dr. Hawkes hints at upcoming projects focused on jumping.

Non-Humanoid Robots

Benefits of Soft Robots

• Non-humanoid robots can be safer for human interaction.
• They can master abilities that humans cannot and are specialized in functions.
• Soft robots can navigate tight spaces and overcome obstacles without getting stuck.
• Example: A vine robot can grow in size and navigate through complex environments.

Applications of Soft Robots

• Versatile Applications:
  • Medical: Can assist in emergency intubation.
  • Search and rescue: Navigate through debris in disasters.
  • Archeology: Explore narrow tunnels in ancient sites.
  • Space exploration: Study surfaces of planets and burrow into soil.
• Design Simplicity:
  • Built from airtight tubing that expands with compressed air.
  • Can navigate complex environments by bending and growing.

Vine Robots and Their Functionality

• Concept Origin: Inspired by plants growing towards sunlight.
• Mechanics:
  • Inflation allows the robot to grow and steer by adjusting the pressure.
  • Can navigate various environments, including sandy surfaces by fluidizing them with air.
• Medical Applications:
  • Miniature versions for rapid intubation, with high success rates in trials.

Jumping Robots

• Record Holder: New jumping robot can jump up to 31 meters, surpassing previous records.
• Mechanism: Uses a spring mechanism combined with a motor to store energy over time.
• Potential for exploration in low-gravity environments (e.g., Moon, Mars).

Micromouse Competition

• Overview: A robotics competition focused on maze-solving.
• Evolution of Strategy: Early strategies involved simple wall-following; now advanced algorithms like flood-fill are used.
• Technological Advancements:
  • Infrared sensors replaced earlier systems, gyroscopes added for orientation.
  • Competitive micromice now include vacuum systems for improved traction and speed.

Future of Robots

• Soft Robotics: Compliance allows for safer interaction with humans and environments.
• Expected to see more specialized robots rather than multipurpose humanoid forms.
• Real-World Applications: Soft robots already exist in household devices like Roombas.
• Future robots may become prevalent in daily life, gradually making tasks easier without being recognized as robots.

Conclusion

• The future of robots is leaning towards specialization over generalization, with soft robots providing unique advantages in various fields.