I believe there’s a big gap between flashy robot prototypes and commercially viable products.
Humanoid robots like Optimus often seem more about securing business contracts or generating publicity, while real-world applications usually require specialized, less advanced robots, like one-arm robots or Stretch.
The development of robots like Boston Dynamics’ Spot tells us how long it takes to turn prototypes into practical products, and the transition from Handle to Stretch highlights the trade-offs between advanced demos and actual commercial viability.
I think humanoid robots are more of a long-term investment for future use in factories.
I see this with any possible future home robot. if its on a ceiling rail system then it does not matter how cluttered the enthronement is which would help even if it itself can put things away and no need for extensive battery. My guess is the rail system would be half the cost.
Yup, or even a flying drone if you don’t need much payload.
Flying drones are hugely noisy, which might make them unsuitable.
also lots of air blowing around indoors.
There’s some cool research into quiet done blades that might help.
yeah I was thinking in terms of elderly and being helped out of a bed and chair and such.
Not sure about it. Think of doors that might be closed or half opened. And if things are over you, it can fall down and hurt you. One of the reasons why drones in warehouses didn’t fly although there was quite a buzz some years ago.
I mean track systems like that are going to be made pretty heavy duty and robust. Its why I said it would likely be half the cost. They have to be rated to hold a lot of weight.