Are Intelligent Robots On Their Way?

Robots, which can be designed to look after the elderly, rescue earthquake victims, or do housework may no longer be just a thing in the past.

16:46 28 May 2015

Intelligent robots may be on their way, as confirmed by a researcher from the University of Wyoming. These robots can be programmed to look after the elderly, rescue earthquake victims, or even do housework. This is made possible by French and US researchers who have developed a learning algorithm that enables robots to adapt very quickly when they are damaged, allowing the robot to continue with its tasks even if some of its component break. 

 

According to Dr Jeff Clune of the University of Wyoming, the development represents an important first step toward robots that are able to operate independently, outside of the carefully controlled confines of a laboratory or factory floor.

 

"Having the kind of intelligent robots you see in the movies is much closer than people realise. Our algorithm should in principle work on any kind of robot no matter how complex it is," he told BBC News.

 

"If anyone can get a working C-3PO, our algorithm could help it to deal with unforeseen situations and damage."