Venturing into a new category of robots that can act using sound judgement, Rethink Robotics has created Baxter, a manufacturing robot that can work alongside other human coworkers.
Utilizing cameras and sonar, Baxter is able to detect and interact with its surrounding environment. The robot’s most impressive feature, however, is its behavior-based intelligence system that allows it to readily change tasks and quickly adapt to different variables.
Baxter also comes pre-assembled with ready-to-use software so it can be up and running almost immediately after it’s out of the box. Unlike most other manufacturing robots that need to be programmed by highly skilled technicians, Baxter can be trained by non-technical personnel by showing it the task you want it to perform. It’s the perfect solution for small manufacturing companies that can’t afford fully automated assembly lines, and also large-scale production facilities that are revising processes previously considered infeasible to automate.
Rethink Robotics plans to release Baxter to the general public sometime in October 2012.
Mindful Manufacturing Cyborgs
‘Rethink Robotics’ Designs a Robot Capable of Working wi
Trend Themes
1. Behavior-based Intelligence - The development of robots with behavior-based intelligence systems presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in various industries.
2. Collaborative Robotics - The rise of collaborative robots, like Baxter, that can work alongside human coworkers opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in manufacturing and other industries.
3. User-friendly Automation - The availability of user-friendly automation technology, such as Baxter's pre-assembled software and trainable interface, enables disruptive innovation in small manufacturing companies and large-scale production facilities.
Industry Implications
1. Manufacturing - The introduction of robots with behavior-based intelligence systems and collaborative capabilities in manufacturing has the potential to revolutionize the industry.
2. Assembly Line Automation - The advancements in user-friendly automation technology offer disruptive innovation opportunities in assembly line automation for both small manufacturing companies and large-scale production facilities.
3. Industrial Robotics - The integration of behavior-based intelligence and collaborative features in industrial robots creates disruptive innovation opportunities in various industries, including manufacturing and beyond.