From robots to robot assistants

Conventional robots find their limitation if the task execution requires a level of perception, dexterity and decision making which cannot be met technically in a cost-effective or a robust way. However, within the otherwise manual task execution less demanding subtasks may still be carried out automatically. A safe and flexible co-operation between robot and operator may be a promising way to achieve better productivity at a manual workplace. Thus, robot assistants can be thought to be clever helpers in manufacturing environments (manufacturing assistant) as well as in services (home and care assistant). Key components and methods supporting these next generation robot systems are currently under intense investigation. In parallel, first scenarios of cost-effectively co-operating workers with manufacturing assistants are within two to three year's reach from now. In this paper, key issues in the evolution from robots to robot assistants will be addressed and a typical scenario for mid-term realisation will be given.