Description: Social robotics refers to the creation of robots that interact with humans using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance social engagement. These robots are designed to understand and respond to human emotions, facilitating communication and interaction in various contexts. Through advanced algorithms for natural language processing and emotion recognition, social robots can adapt to the needs and behaviors of the people they interact with. This allows them to play roles in various applications, including education, healthcare, and entertainment, where empathy and emotional connection are essential. Social robotics aims not only to automate tasks but also to enrich the human experience, creating meaningful bonds between humans and machines. Its relevance lies in the growing need for technological solutions that improve quality of life and promote social inclusion, especially in an increasingly digital world.
History: Social robotics began to take shape in the 1990s, with the development of robots capable of interacting with humans in a more natural way. One significant milestone was the Kismet robot, created in 1998 by MIT, which could recognize and respond to human emotions. Over the years, technology has advanced significantly, incorporating improvements in AI and machine learning, allowing social robots to become more sophisticated and effective in their interactions.
Uses: Social robots are used in various applications, including education, where they can act as personalized tutors; in healthcare, providing companionship and assistance to patients; and in entertainment, interacting with users in games and recreational activities. They are also being explored in customer service environments, where they can help answer questions and guide users.
Examples: Examples of social robots include Pepper, a robot designed to interact with people in commercial and educational settings, and Paro, a therapeutic robot shaped like a seal that is used in hospitals and nursing homes to provide companionship and improve the emotional well-being of patients.
