The document discusses a new robot called Baxter that is designed to safely work alongside humans. Baxter has safety mechanisms like sensors and an e-stop button to protect humans. It is not powerful enough to harm humans, addressing a key concern in developing robots for close interaction with people. The goal is for humans and robots to collaborate in the workplace without humans losing their jobs or feeling threatened.
1. A Robot With a
Reassuring Touch
John Markoff
September 18, 2012 Main point: Make robots safe
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/18/science/a-robot-with-a-delicate- enough for humans to work with
touch.html?ref=science&_r=0moc.semityn.www
Safety and overcoming human
fear are the biggest factors.
• Most robots are large and
powerful enough to completely
crush a human.
• E-stop button (Locomotive Acts
19th century British Law)
Safety mechanisms and sensors
to protect humans
• Ex. crown of sonar sensors
• Demonstration
Already tested in many companies
Human employees are not losing
Baxter their jobs
Created by Rethink Robotics • Reassigned to higher skill level
Has a 9 foot wingspan jobs
Available for purchase in October for $22000
Not programmable – “Training by
• Train the robots
Lopa Nath
demonstration” September 24,
2012