A service robot is a robot that is capable of providing services to its owner. These robots generally are autonomous but can be controlled, either remotely or manually, by built-in systems. They also might be synced up with WiFi home networks or smart environments.
Service robots can differ in specific functions, but their jobs usually can be described as helping humans perform tasks that are dangerous, difficult, dirty, repetitive or distant. A service robot can ease the workload of a human being in this way, especially if the task is frequent, such as as with home chores. They also can be used in medicine, space, agriculture, firefighting, hotels and entertainment and to perform industrial tasks. Service robots are particularly useful in the automotive industry, where heavy lifting and fine calibrations are required to build a vehicle.
Domestic robots are widely popular. A service robot used around the home can do anything from vacuum a carpet to mow a lawn. A domestic robot can help its owner clean pools, mop floors and iron clothes. Some robots can even help homeowners clean up after pets. In cases like these, a robot can routinely pick up fur that has been shed or it can clean litter boxes after cats have used them, ensuring that the litter boxes remain fresh and that odors are controlled.
Service robots also can help move objects from one place to another within a home. A service robot can transport clothes to a washing machine for laundering, or it can take glasses from a table to dishwasher. These functions are attractive to those who spend a lot of time cooking meals or are often tired from long days. If a service robot is employed while children are in the home, it can significantly reduce the time parents spend doing household chores. They also might give parents peace of mind, because they know that glassware, for example, won’t be handled and possibly broken by children if the robot arrives to collect the dishes.
A service robot can be particularly useful to disabled or elderly individuals. The elderly and the disabled can be limited in their mobility, so a service robot in the home can encourage independent living. These robots can aid with physical tasks, and they can facilitate many cognitive and social services. For instance, service robots might give the person a way to communicate with friends or relatives, link the person to his or her doctor or give the person daily reminders.