Tuesday, November 27, 2007

[Korea.net News, Science / Tech, November 25 2007] Korean gov't helping robots transition from starring roles to common appliances

When UK filmmaker Stanley Kubrick presented "2001 Space Odyssey" in 1968, viewers of all ages were mesmerized by the mystery of the universe Arthur C. Clark, the author of the original story, portrayed and Hal, the robot. Since then, robots have been shown as super heroes, helpers or sometimes enemies in many science fiction movies and animations.

Now, in 2007, we can see actual robots in our homes and offices. They help and amuse by cleaning the floor, singing and even performing sophisticated medical operations. Robots can make decisions and operate for themselves by analyzing the environment with their artificial intelligence and sensors that function as human senses.

One of Korea’s best known robots is Albert Hubo, a two-legged walking robot with a human-like head resembling Albert Einstein that charmed influential world leaders, including the U.S. President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin, at the APEC Busan 2005. A year later, Albert Hubo was even a guest on “Good Morning America.” Automated singers and entertainers Ever-1 and Ever-2 are also high-profile products of the robot industry.

Robots enter service industry

Korean cities emerging as robotics centers

No comments: