Robots have come a long way from the stiff and abrupt movements associated with them in the past. While the iconic 'robot dance' of the 1980s may still linger in our memories, modern robots now exhibit softer and subtler movements, especially in the case of humanoid robots.
However, the majority of robots in use today are industrial robots, with around 3 million of them operating in factories worldwide. These robots, particularly in the automotive industry, have been instrumental in manufacturing goods like cars for decades.
One company, Micropsi Industries, is at the forefront of making industrial robots more human-like. Their innovative control system, MIRAI, utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and cameras to train robots to perform tasks that were previously impossible through traditional programming.
The founder of Micropsi Industries, Ronnie Vuine, was inspired by AI during his time as a student at Humboldt University in Berlin. The company was founded in 2014, following the mainstream acceptance of AI, exemplified by Google's acquisition of Deep Mind.
MIRAI's capabilities were demonstrated when a robot arm successfully completed a delicate task of plugging in a computer cable, a feat considered too complex for manual programming. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for automation in various industries, particularly in the production of electric cars.
While automotive remains the most advanced industry in terms of robot deployment, Micropsi Industries aims to expand its technology to other sectors such as power tools, white goods, and logistics. The potential for humanoid robots powered by their system is also on the horizon, with applications beyond factory settings.
However, the challenge lies in the physical nature of robots, which are currently made of rigid materials. Vuine highlights the need for safety measures due to the potential harm caused by robot movements, hindering their integration into domestic settings.
As Micropsi Industries continues to push the boundaries of industrial robotics, the future holds promise for a new era of automation that bridges the gap between machines and humans.
