Robots in the work place

Most of the time, when you think of robots in the work place, you think of those giant arm-like machines precisely and rapidly welding automobile frames. In the world of telepresence though, robots, controlled remotely, roam around offices. These kinds of robots allow telecommuting or travelling employees the ability to "be present" in meetings. A staff member controls the robots movement and sends it from place to place allowing the human to interact with co-workers as if she were actually present.

This is one example, there are many companies making these.

I've been thinking a lot about these robots and how they could be used outside of the world of business. While researching, one of our staff members discovered that they are already being used in schools to allow home bound students the ability to participate in school and classroom life.

What about other uses? Another HPL staff member suggested nursing homes. This seems like a fantastic application to me. Imagine being able to visit your Great Aunt Betty by arranging use of the nursing home's telepresence robot! You could roll to her room and have a visit no matter where you are in the world.

Health care seems like a natural place for these sorts of robots. With a fairly sensitive sound and vision package, a doctor in a distant hospital could consult with local doctors and even be present when examining a patient.

I'm interested in these robots at HPL for gimmicky reasons like using one to roam around the Smallville Comic con to answer questions a la  Barbara Gordon (Bat Girl) who was the librarian at Gotham City's Public Library.

But, HPL could also lend the robot to other organizations including schools and medical facilities if they needed it. It could be lent for other purposes as well. What do you think?