Key Insights from the 2023 Heartland Robotics and Automation Conference
Key Insights from the 2023 Heartland Robotics and Automation Conference
Design with Humans in the Loop
"Humans in the loop" refers to integrating human feedback and interaction within robotic systems. This approach ensures that robots can work effectively alongside people, enhancing workflow and user experience. At the conference, Vivian Chu, Co-founder and CIO of Diligent Robotics, shared insights on Moxi, a robot designed to assist healthcare workers. Moxi takes on routine tasks like delivering supplies, helping to reduce staff burnout.
By understanding hospital leaders’ needs, Diligent Robotics effectively leverages Moxi’s capabilities while educating staff about its limitations. The robot’s design promotes a cooperative atmosphere; for example, Moxi has sensors to navigate busy environments and uses an LED display for expressive interactions. This engagement fosters acceptance of robotic assistance, allowing human workers to collaborate when challenges arise during Moxi’s operation.
Get Out of the Lab
The concept of "getting out of the lab" emphasizes the importance of real-world testing for robotics. Controlled environments can’t mimic the unpredictable nature of everyday life. Chu described how observing Moxi in a hospital setting yielded valuable data, such as unexpected placements of badge scanners and even staff dressing the robot with hats.
These observations allow designers to refine Moxi’s functions and adapt the onboarding process to include nuances that arise in actual hospital environments. For instance, the feedback process led to a "costume protocol" to manage how Moxi can be personalized. By taking prototypes into real-world settings, developers can adjust to dynamic variables and enhance robot functionality.
Storytelling Helps Communicate and Grow Complex Ideas
Effective communication is vital when introducing complex technologies. Storytelling can bridge the gap between abstract concepts and practical applications, making innovative ideas more accessible. During a panel discussion, experts shared experiences from working with the U.S. military, where visual tools like mockups and videos facilitate understanding.
Brian Sisco emphasized that tangible prototypes can ground discussions about futuristic ideas, allowing investors and potential collaborators to grasp intricate solutions within limited time frames. Effective storytelling also encourages diverse teams to brainstorm, using visuals and hypothetical scenarios to inspire new solutions and refine existing ones.
The Trades and STEM Skill Sets Are in High Demand
As industries evolve, the need for skilled workers in trades and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields has become critical. During breakout sessions, Nebraska manufacturers reported difficulties in finding qualified talent, especially in rural areas facing population declines. For example, the Good Life, Great Careers Initiative aims to promote apprenticeship programs and internships to build a talent pipeline for these essential sectors.
The call to action included advocating for financial incentives for upskilling workers and upgrading machinery in manufacturing. Engaging school students through competitive robotics teams would also spark interest in technology careers. Recognition of local teams, like Rebel Robotics, which excelled in national competitions, highlights the potential for career growth in Nebraska.
Nebraska Does Have Opportunities to Build Careers
Despite challenges, Nebraska showcases avenues for launching careers in robotics and manufacturing. Initiatives like the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s pioneering robotics engineering undergraduate major provide a formal educational path. Similarly, Northeast Community College’s iHub is dedicated to innovating in workforce development.
Ryan McCormick’s journey from a Nebraska university to becoming a robotics mechanical engineer at NASA exemplifies the potential for success in the state. The conference concluded with announcements about programs like the Nebraska Innovation Fellowship, which offers funding and mentorship to aspiring innovators. These initiatives demonstrate Nebraska’s commitment to fostering a robust landscape for careers in robotics and related fields.