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Uhaina Atxotegi Alegria

Elhuyar Fundazioa

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uhaina@elhuyar.com

(+34) 943 363040

2004/5/31

Robots who carry out us numerous tasks

The Robosoft company in Bidart (Lapurdi/Labourd) makes and markets robots that are programmed according to the requirements of the customer. These customised devices – robots – carry out numerous tasks that, in general, are laborious for us – lugging heavy loads around, cleaning chores, handling very small objects, and so on. The size and shape of each robot is distinct, according to the task(s) assigned it.

What is manufactured is a robot that is something like a train – it serves as a means of automated transport for groups of people. It is called robuCAB and is used to transfer people from one place to another and does not need a driver. It moves around with great smoothness, without stopping brusquely. Moreover, it hardly makes a noise. It is, in fact, a very pleasant means of transport.

RobuCABs move over pre-defined circuits. The programmer places a series of sensors below the ground and the robot follows the circuit of the sensors by means of a detector. If an obstacle is met, velocity is reduced and it will stop a metre from it not continue until the obstacle is removed.

The RobuCAB can also function guided by a reflecting light. The robot detects this light and follows its trail. This kind of vehicle has numerous applications, amongst which are the transportation of persons in high population zones: in city centres, in universities, industrial zones, public parks, airports, hospitals, etc.

Of course these robots are produced using the latest, cutting-edge technology. The presence of robots in our daily life is still somewhat strange for us and probably remind us of certain scenes from science fiction stories or movies. But, these devices will also undoubtedly become part of our existence little by little, in the not too distant.