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Styrofoam-Chopping Robots

Robochop Builds Structures Based On Online Users' Specifications

— February 11, 2015 — Tech
Robochop is an awesomely-named installation that consists of four foam-carving robots that can be controlled by anyone over the Internet. The robot will enable you to design and build something which you then get to keep. It will be presented by Germany's GFT Group at the CeBIT computer expo in Hannover, as part of a series of demonstrations of the Internet of Things.

Each of the four robots will have access to a grand total of 2,000 polystyrene blocks, each measuring 50 cm per side. Beginning March 5th, people around the world will be able to use the Robochop app to design 3D objects such as abstract sculptures, pieces of furniture or anything else. Between March 16th and 20th, the robots will make some of the objects and send the finished creations to the designers.

Robochop looks to be a precursor to a future where consumers will be able to leverage the Internet of Things to directly access industrial equipment to build things to their specifications.
Trend Themes
1. Internet of Things - Robochop demonstrates the potential of the Internet of Things by allowing users to control robots remotely and design 3D objects.
2. User-controlled Design - Robochop empowers users to design and build objects based on their own specifications, paving the way for customized manufacturing.
3. Remote Industrial Access - Robochop showcases the concept of consumers accessing industrial equipment remotely, enabling them to create objects without physical proximity to the machinery.
Industry Implications
1. Manufacturing - The manufacturing industry can explore the integration of user-controlled design and remote access to industrial equipment for customized production.
2. Technology and Robotics - The technology and robotics industries can further develop the concept of remote-controlled robots for consumer-oriented 3D object creation.
3. Internet of Things (iot) Solutions - IoT solution providers can adapt Robochop-like systems to offer consumers access to industrial equipment for personalized manufacturing.
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