In the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), many researchers around the world are looking for ways to make use of artificially intelligent software and hardware robotics systems that can serve and assist the human race - bringing so-called science fiction closer to reality.

Scientists and researchers have discovered that one of the ways that will enable AI to be useful and beneficial to mankind is when it understands how to react to and interpret outward stimuli similar to the level of human intelligence and external senses.

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By using speech and visual recognition systems, scientists are giving robots the ability to recognize sounds and images - mimicking the external senses of men. Using AI, drones and autonomous vehicles are able to navigate their way through environments and obstacles like virtual intelligent pilots and drivers.

In assisting people, on the other hand, researchers funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) are currently trying to develop assistive technologies that can improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Among these researchers is roboticist Aaron Steinfeld from the Carnegie Mellon University in the U.S., who is working along with his colleagues on "cooperative robots" capable of assisting disabled people - with visual impairments for example - to safely travel unfamiliar environments.

To enable these technologies to assist people, researchers say they have to have the capacity to discern and understand the needs of the human being. Engineer Xiaoli Zhang from the Colorado School of Mines is currently working on a robotic system that can recognize what a person needs by that's person gaze. If a person looks at a smartphone, for example, the robot will be able to interpret that data and respond accordingly.

"We think gaze is unique because it is a naturally intuitive way for how people interact with the world," Ms. Zhang said. "If you're thirsty, you look for a bottle of water. You need to look at it first before you manipulate it." 

Other NSF-funded projects are also focusing on other technologies - such as soft wearable robotics - to improve the quality of life for patients by enhancing bodily movements. Conor J. Walsh, an assistant Professor of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), has been working with his team on a lightweight soft wearable robotic glove that could offer patients assistance in performing daily activities.

Mr. Walsh said, "Think of someone swinging back and forth. You give them a little tap at the right time and they swing higher. As someone is walking, we give them a little boost to walk farther, walk longer. If you want to go to the local store to buy something, put on a robotic suit to walk around. If you want to cook dinner, put on a glove that helps you be more dexterous."

In addition to these areas, AI robots are now being used in a wide range of industries that require physical tasks such as manufacturing, household maintenance and cleaning, delivering goods and services and even space exploration.

TagsArtificial Intelligence, AI, Assistive Technology, Robotics