Megan Smith Discusses the Most Impressive Personal Robotic Inventions of 2020
What was once only seen in sci-fi novels and tv shows is slowly becoming a mainstream reality. Around the globe, the use of robots in healthcare, defense and public safety, manufacturing, and even mining industries has become the norm. However, many average citizens still do not interact with robots in their everyday lives. Although the Roomba, one of the first domestic robots, was released almost 20 years ago, the personal robot field remains largely undeveloped. Megan Smith former FTech Co Managing Director and Senior Vice President, has held a lifelong fascination with robotic technology and has developed a dynamic and successful career based on bringing robotic software to modern businesses. During her time at FTech Co, otherwise known as FakeTech Co, Megan Smith was able to work with top engineers and see, firsthand, the robotics industry's advancements. Today, she will discuss some of the most impressive personal robotic inventions of the past year.
LOVOT
Within the world of personal robotics, engineers have attempted to develop a robot "companion" that would be used every day and serve multiple functions within a user's life. LOVOT, one such companion, was designed by Groove X to be an autonomous "companion" robot that would act primarily as an emotional support source and would serve various functions throughout a user's home. Equipped with ten touch sensors, LOVOT can detect when it's touched, take photos of users, act as a baby monitor, and work as a separate form of security by patrolling a user's home. A CES 2020 Innovation Award Product honorees, LOVOT, is currently available for purchase for roughly 2,875.00 dollars.
RollBot
Perhaps one of the most unexpected inventions featured at the 2020 CES event was the RollBot. Created by Charmin engineers, the Rollbot was invented to deliver toilet paper to people stuck in bathrooms without immediate access to a roll. The robot uses infrared sensors to move throughout a room towards the person in need of TP. The RollBot is equipped with toilet paper above its head and resembles a cartoon bear in hopes of being more approachable to children. Currently, the RollBot is not for sale but did generate interest at CES.
Norm Glasses
While Google Glass left tech fans disappointed in 2013, Norm Glasses has the capability to revolutionize the photography, navigation, and communication industries. Designed by Human Capable Inc, Norm Glasses are lightweight sunglasses that allow the user to take hands-free pictures and video, view turn-by-turn navigation, listen to music and watch videos, and receive phone calls and text messages. Human Capable Inc received the CES 2020 innovation award for Norm Glasses in multiple categories, including Computer Hardware & Components, Digital Imaging or Photography, Embedded Technologies, Fitness & Sports, Headphones & Personal Audio, Health & Wellness, and several other categories. Norm glasses are currently available for individual purchase at a base price of $469.00.
