Robotics is a field of artificial intelligence that entails developing intelligent and efficient robots that perform stipulated tasks independently or with some human intervention. Robots are transforming the healthcare industry and other fields in radical ways with the overarching aim of improving the quality of service.
Overview of Robots in Medicine
The use of robots in the medical industry dates back to the 1980s when mechanical robots were first developed for this purpose. However, the nascent -robots idea did not come to fruition until the 1990s where they were used for brain surgeries. Precision is at the forefront of neurosurgeons, as any mistake could yield catastrophic outcomes for the patient, including fatalities.
Apart from conducting brain surgeries, robots became popular with keyhole surgeries which are less invasive procedures. During these procedures, the surgeon uses remote-controlled surgical devices to reduce the impact of the incisions so there will be less stitching and scarring. A laparoscope is inserted into the identified site, and the device has miniature cameras attached to guide the surgeon. Laparoscopy procedures can be used to remove ovarian cysts, and using robots increases accuracy. More innovations and implementation of robotics in medicine are underway.
Laboratory Automation
Medical labs conduct numerous tests on patients in a bid to pinpoint what could be wrong with them. Tests require a lot of repetitive actions such as extracting a specimen, placing it on Petri dishes, examining it under a microscope, etc. This series of tasks is time-consuming, and there could be backlogs if the laboratories are understaffed or not operating round the clock.
Robotics takes over these repetitive tasks, thus freeing up the technician’s time to focus on other tasks that super-machines cannot accomplish.
Cutting Bone
Some robots are so advanced that they can perform medical operations like bone ablation. CARLO® is the first certified surgical device used to cut bone with laser beams. When physicians need to perform cuts with high precision or make several cuts on a patient’s bone, using this robotics innovation saves them OR time.
CARLO® is equipped with an indication-specific software package that develops a seamless digital workflow from the planning to execution and completion stages of surgical procedures. Another benefit of this robot is that it reduces mechanical and thermal trauma on adjacent bone tissue, which is common when performing osteotomies.
Massage Robot
How about having a robot take the role of a massage therapist? UR robots with round-end effectors can give a full body massage just like a physiotherapist would. These gadgets roll over the skin as gently as a human hand to relieve pain and tension in the back muscles.
Massage robots have collaborative arms, and they utilize cloud artificial intelligence. The user can instruct the robot through voice commands to know which areas on the back need extra attention. Though massage robots have not infiltrated the industry as much as other successful robotic prototypes, innovation is underway to create a device that will deliver just what users need at home.
Sanitizing Healthcare Facilities
Mechanical robots that are designed to radiate ultraviolet light have become popular in hospital settings. They can disinfect areas where disease infections are rampant, such as operating rooms, emergency rooms, and wards.
These robots emit UV-C rays with wavelengths of 250 to 280 nanometres, making them helpful in killing viruses and bacteria. Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) is safer to kill viruses and bacteria without using harmful chemicals. Routine manual cleaning of floors and surfaces is still necessary for any healthcare facility and then using UVGI as a backup to sanitize, especially during pandemics like the ongoing Covid 19.
Delivery of Packages
When Covid 19 hit, many countries were forced to go into lockdown, and this decree isolated people from their families and friends, not to mention doctors. Robotics can help deliver packages to a patient’s doorstep, so they don’t have to forego prescriptions and other necessary items.
Robby is one such innovation with all-wheel-drive capability for six wheels to enable the robot to climb steep terrain and staircases. It can navigate crowded spaces like parks and on the streets parks in its delivery route.
Robby has a well-designed shell and internal electronics which protect it from harsh weather elements like a rainstorm. The gadget scores on user experience and its human-centered design. Robby looks like a pet walking down the street, and its small size is not intimidating at all. More so, it has built-in LEDs for signaling and improving safety as it drives along with public spaces. This device will still be helpful even when after Covid 19 subsides and people can move around freely.
Manufacturing
Increasing productivity in manufacturing is essential to keep costs low and enhance the bottom line. Robots in manufacturing work in tandem with employees to perform repetitious or intricate tasks with the guidance of workers. These super machines are ideal when precision is more desirable than speed, usually for complex tasks prone to human error.
Modern robots come with sophisticated upgrades that make them safer to operate. They have built-in cameras, sensors, and programmed shut-off capabilities to prevent injury to humans.
Hygiene in Public Spaces
Keeping the surroundings clean is essential for cities and other public spaces like malls. Robots can transport, heat, and spray specific areas for cleansing purposes. These robots are critical during Covid 19 to keep public spaces sanitary to curb the spread.
Deep cleansing by humans may expose them to harsh chemicals that could have adverse impacts on their health. Robots are ideal in such situations to ensure the job gets done with minimal human intervention.
Conclusion
Robotics is a highly innovative field that makes it easier to perform simple and complex tasks with precision. The International Federation of Robotics projects that this emerging market will continue to radicalize many industries and households. Unfortunately, these intelligent devices are expensive and require a considerable capital outlay, but they can save money down the line. Boosting efficiency and convenience is key to delivering a better customer experience, which increases profit margins in the long run.
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