Description: Service robotics involves robots designed to assist humans in various tasks, enhancing productivity and efficiency. These robots are capable of interacting with their environment and performing specific functions ranging from home assistance to healthcare and logistics. Unlike industrial robots, which are primarily designed for repetitive tasks in controlled environments, service robotics focuses on interaction with people and adaptation to changing situations. Service robots can be autonomous or semi-autonomous and are equipped with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, sensors, and navigation systems. Their relevance in Industry 4.0 lies in their ability to optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve service quality, making them an essential tool in the digital transformation of various industries. As technology advances, service robotics continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions that address the changing needs of modern society.
History: Service robotics began to take shape in the 1990s when advancements in artificial intelligence and sensor technology enabled the creation of robots capable of interacting with humans in non-industrial environments. One significant milestone was the development of cleaning robots like the Roomba in 2002, which popularized the idea of domestic robots. Over the years, service robotics has evolved, incorporating technologies such as computer vision and machine learning, which have expanded its application in sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and education.
Uses: Service robotics is used in a variety of applications, including healthcare, where robots can assist healthcare professionals with tasks such as medication administration and patient monitoring. In the logistics sector, robots can manage product storage and delivery. They are also used in domestic environments for cleaning and personal assistance tasks. Additionally, in education, robots can serve as interactive teaching tools.
Examples: Examples of service robotics include the Roomba cleaning robot, which automates home cleaning, and the Double telepresence robot, which allows people to interact remotely in work environments. In healthcare, the Da Vinci robot is used in minimally invasive surgeries, improving precision and reducing patient recovery time.
