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The medical market is going to grow rapidly in the next few years. With all the device companies out there it may be a just a matter of time for a partner to come in. MO
I think with the development of ISO standards for MSR (thought it was going to be released in August but it is still officially listed as in process). I think the need for safety is going to be HUGE.
I checked iRobot's help wanted listing and on 9/23 they posted ads for east and west coast sales managers for AVA teleconferecing. If I remember correctly the navigation on that is remote control. Once they have a number of them in the field I think they'll be wishing they had SafePath.
With the right partner for teleconferencing I think GOSY could beat AVA for navigation and functionality, and they could do it in under a year.
Being in the same MSR conversation Honda and iRobot is impressive. While they seem to be hardware focused, GOSY has the software to make them safe in society.
The MSR (Mobile Service Robot) market is heating up.
Global Service Robotics Market 2012-2016
Posted on Friday, October 04, 2013
www.sbwire.com/press-releases/global-service-robotics-market-2012-2016-347743.htm Logo
Naperville, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/04/2013 -- Reportstack, provider of premium market research reports announces the addition of Global Service Robotics Market 2012-2016 market report to its offering Analysts forecast the Global Service Robotics market to grow at a CAGR of 19.05 percent over the period 2012-2016. One of the key factors contributing to this market growth is the increasing demand of professional robots for medical applications. The Global Service Robotics market has also been witnessing the increase in availability of service robots on a leased basis. However, the lack of effective product differentiation could pose a challenge to the growth of this market. Global Service Robotics Market 2012-2016, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the Americas, and the EMEA and APAC regions; it also covers the Global Service Robotics market landscape and its growth prospects in the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market. The key vendors dominating this market space are GeckoSystems Intl. Corp., Honda Motor Co. Ltd., and iRobot Corp. Other vendors mentioned in the report are AB Electrolux, Bluefin Robotics Corp., Deep Ocean Engineering Inc., ECA Hytec SA, Fujitsu Ltd., International Submarine Engineering Ltd., MacArtney Group, Sony Corp., Toyota Motor Corp. Key questions answered in this report: What will the market size be in 2016 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors? You can request one free hour of our analysts time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report.
None of them produced a commercially viable product. GeckoSystems has created a fully autonomous AI navigated wheelchair. It should be on the market - much more important than a Roomba, why can't they raise the capital in the OTC? Isn't that why they went public?
Kompaii from Robosoft was funded by the EU. When I last looked into it I found that it could only move to predesignated positions and was little more that a telepresence unit.
I thought the above article was interesting because while Kompai was pictured the headline was "MOBISERV - An Integrated Intelligent Home Environment for the Provision of Health, Nutrition and Mobility Services to Older Adults ". Seems to be recognition of the lack of autonomy on the part of Kompai
The project discussed will include three separate systems, but I think GeckoSystems' CareBot integrates all three.
The project aims to produce three key sub-systems for assisting older people. A wearable health status monitor which smart sensors woven into undergarments (Smartex and CSEM); a secure tele-alarm and health reporting system; and a nutrition support system (Thessaloniki), which will consist of reminders when meals and drinks are missed and encouragement when people experience loss of appetite. All these systems will be linked to a robotic platform incorporating speech-based interaction, which will also facilitate communication — providing people with an easy to use facility for keeping in touch with relatives, friends, medical personnel and carers.
Note the international panel at the bottom of the page.
More comment on the need for an eldercare robot:
22 August 2011
Kompai is a robot companion to humans who need one. Born in a workshop near Biarritz, France, Kompai is the fruit of the FP7 project MOBISERV to explore how machines can help the elderly and disabled. The result is a blend of watchdog, care assistant, and everyday computer. Vincent Dupourqué, the president of Robosoft, the company behind the venture, explained the idea: “A robot is certainly one of the best answers, the best technological answer to help people who are housebound.” One of Robosoft’s robotics engineer, Arnaud Lago, gave more details: “It’s a mobile robotic platform which is able to move around an apartment automatically. It is equipped with a laser and distance sensors for navigation and security. There’s a tablet PC with a tactile interface that allows it to interact with the person who’ll be using it, two directional microphones in order to speak to it, and a camera to allow the person to speak to others.” Kompai should be able to go where you tell him, help with the shopping list and even play games. Kompai’s creators argue that the growing number of elderly people in Europe means there is an emerging market for robotic home help. Not just practical help either, but as Vincent said, also companionship: “Most people find they’re really, really comfortable with the robot. We saw with the first tests with real patients that after a few minutes they forgot it was a machine and talked to him as if he was a person.”
And it seems that GOSY navigational system is their biggest need:
This robot is a prototype, and as Arnaud explains there is room to improve its interaction with humans and their environment.
“The first thing that we want to improve is the obstacle avoidance, so that the robot can be capable of avoiding completely unexpected objects in its path,” he said.
Kompai’s creators argue that the growing number of elderly people in Europe means there is an emerging market for robotic home help.
Actually the mechanicals are the predominant manufacturing costs.
So the companies that supply the drive motors, frame, etc. will probably gross more dollars than the software folks.
Even the electronics folks will gross more dollars than the software folks.
Why's this?
"Laws of Physics" is the short answer. Sort of like what is the lowest cost car? It takes X amount of steel, Y amount of iron, and Z amount of plastic to carry and enclose a person.
For example, a motorcycle with 100 hp that carries two people is less money than a two passenger car with 100 hp. The big difference, of course, "passenger comfort" in bad weather!
Many very good reasons that motorcyclists are under overpasses on the interstate when it rains.
The point here:
JOBS for the manufacturing, distribution, sale and service for those in the new emerging, mobile service robot industry.
Yes, this is an emerging TRILLION dollar industry.
The first one is HospiRimo by Panasonic - Unlike the carebot in that it has no artificial intellignce - it must have its destinations pre defined and needs remote control for the camera function or to move into a changed environment.
HOSPI-Rimo (Remote Intelligence and Mobility)
HOSPI-Rimo was developed by applying Panasonic's autonomous mobility technology of the HOSPI transportation robot for hospitals, and High Definition visual communication technology. People at separate and distant places can have comfortable communications through this robot. HOSPI-Rimo allows them to talk with other residents and doctors in a care facility and enables families and friends who live far to virtually visit hospital inpatients or the elderly living alone. The robot uses the following technologies.
1. Hybrid control technology combining remote-control and autonomous mobility If a location near the target person is specified, the robot can autonomously move to that place, recognizing the surrounding environment and avoiding obstacles in the way. The robot can also be remote-controlled. Further more, in the remote control mode, the robot moves safely while correctly recognizing its surroundings.
2. Conversation function using robot's motions and visual communications The shooting angle of the robot's built-in camera can be freely set by remote control. The High Definition Visual Communications System technology has been adopted for smooth, two-way conversations.
Other than the fact that it exists and might be deployed in hospitals soon, there’s no word on pricing or a release date. Oh, and the name HOSPI? It’s indicative of where it’s going to be used the most: Hospitals.
Robovie R3 is an eldercare robot. It does not have any sensors for obstacle detction. It's not for sale either.
t’s being sold as a research platform. While incorporating significant cost reductions from Robovie II, R3 will still cost about $40,000. ATR and Vstone hope to sell about 30 units this year.
MP3 is proprietary software paradigm breakthrough that enable iTunes, etc. in fact, most all online music is MP3.
MP3 uses proprietary mathematical algorithms to compress and decompress audio files for our enjoyment.
GOSY has invented super efficient mathematical algorithms that do the same for AI robot navigation software. Super efficient (like MP3 is super efficient) and lowers the cost of usage!
GOSY - You lost me on "how many quad cores did it take?"
I can see how the wheelchair moves differently in the student video. At one point a student even raises his hand into the sensor field to get attention.
But I don't understand what quad cores are or how this affects the motion of the wheelchair.
Manufacturing the Future: A Look at the National Robotics Initiative
In June 2011, President Obama announced the National Robotics Initiative to develop robotic technology for use in the civil and commercial sector.
The National Institutes of Health, NASA, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Agriculture put money toward funding large and small-scale development projects.
Learn more about the NRI during AUVSI's webinar
Manufacturing the Future: A Look at the National Robotics Initiative with Chuck Thorpe, assistant director for Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics in the Office of Science and Technology
Tuesday, 15 November
1500 EST.
Assistant Director Thorpe will explain what the NRI means for the unmanned systems and robotics community and how to apply for NRI funding. This is your opportunity to learn more about the role OSTP plays in promoting the robotics industry.
Registration is FREE and open from now until the day of the webinar.
Manufacturing the Future: A Look at the National Robotics Initiative webinar is sponsored by: AUVSI'S UNMANNED SYSTEMS PROGRAM REVIEW 7-9 February 2012 Washington, DC www.auvsi.org/uspr
GeckoSystems Actively Negotiating Joint Venture with Chinese Wheelchair Manufacturer for International Marketing of Robotic Wheelchair Safety Technology PR Newswire "Press Releases US - English"
CONYERS, Ga. , Nov. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- GeckoSystems International Corp. (PINKSHEETS: GOSY) announced today that the Company is in ongoing negotiations with a Chinese wheelchair manufacturer that are expected to result in a joint venture for international marketing and manufacture of their recently developed, cutting edge, "collision proof" wheelchair technology.
GeckoSystems is a dynamic leader in the emerging mobile robotics industry revolutionizing their development and usage with "Mobile Robot Solutions for Safety, Security and Service"
"While we cannot presently disclose the name of the possible Chinese partner at this time as it is restricted by NDA, discussions have been moving ahead in a very amicable and positive atmosphere so far. Mr. Spencer has been supporting this project strongly and he considers this possible Chinese JV as GeckoSystems ' strategic advance into the wheelchair production center of the world," stated Mr. Hajime Yasumatsu , Chairman, Yasu, Inc.
"Our Asian Business Development Consultant, Mr. Yasumatsu and his business associates in Beijing, China and Tokyo, Japan are having continuing discussions with a Chinese wheelchair manufacturer concerning a joint venture in China . We will continue to update our stockholders on the progress of these talks in a timely manner," stated Martin Spencer , CEO, GeckoSystems .
According to 2010 United States Census figures there are 3.3 million wheelchair users age 15 or over. Power assisted wheelchairs are a wonderful aid to the disabled, but severe spasticity or tremor (associated with brain or spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease) and visual or cognitive limitations make it difficult, if not impossible, for many wheelchair users to enjoy the freedom of movement provided by a power wheelchair.
A live demonstration of GeckoSystems ' completed prototype "collision proof" chair is available at http://www.geckosystems.com/markets/wheelchair.php . The wheelchair is seen navigating smoothly in a mall and in a grocery store. It avoids both moving and stationary obstacles without sudden movements (such as those caused by tremor when using a joystick) that could cause pain or injury to the occupant of the chair. GeckoSystems hopes that wheelchair users around the world will soon have access to this new technology that enhances both the safety and the mobility of the user.
It is expected that the first product from the Chinese Joint Venture will be an upgraded design more appropriate for AI software control developed according to GeckoSystems ' design criteria.
GeckoSystems proprietary software, such as the GeckoImager, has the ability to fuse multiple stationary sensors to enable a level of autonomy that exceeds what roboticists commonly refer to as "fully autonomous" navigation. GeckoImager uses sensor fusion, which incorporates structured light machine vision. The abstracted sensor data provides the automatic, self-navigation artificial intelligence (AI) software, GeckoNav, with sufficient and timely data to attain actionable situation awareness and provide a very safe, loose crowd level of autonomy that is completely "collision proof."
The anticipated Chinese joint venture will give GeckoSystems a competitive advantage when it enters into commercial markets such as healthcare, security, and government applications. The mechanical components of a wheelchair are very similar in size and capacity to what is needed for these MSR (Mobile Service Robot) applications. Additionally, GeckoSystems management believes that when these discussions are finished the company will have the resources to complete development of their flagship product, the CareBot eldercare robot.
Electronics continually become lighter and less expensive due to technological advances. Software has no weight and once developed it can be reproduced inexpensively. The mechanical system, which is the frame and drive motors, must be adequately engineered to carry the heavy batteries needed to give the robots a functional run time between charging. The metal and mechanics required to do this represent a major part of the cost of the completed MSR. Economic mass production of this critical system will allow GeckoSystems to price their commercial MSR line very competitively while enjoying enhanced gross margins.
Mr. Spencer stated: "Of course due to the delicacy and sensitivity of these discussions, it would be inappropriate to reveal more at this time. However, given the past performance of Mr. Yasumatsu on behalf of GeckoSystems , I continue to be optimistic and expect that this will be one more successful negotiation by Yasu, Inc. representing GeckoSystems . This anticipated step makes the transition of the company from the Developmental Stage to the Emerging Growth stage while continuing the company on the path to providing our stockholders with a satisfying return on investment."
The Concern of China for its People
On 28 April 2011 , China 's state statistics bureau first released its report on the country's 2010 census. The findings of the census were that the population of mainland China had reached 1.34 billion in 2010. From 2000 to 2010 the population from infancy to 14 years of age declined from 22.9% to 16.6%, while the number of people 65 years and older grew from 7% to 8.9%. China 's population is aging rapidly.
China is also becoming less rural. The 2010 report shows that 49.7% of the population is now living in urban areas, a 13% increase over the 2000 figures. The Chinese people are also becoming more mobile. About 260 million Chinese live somewhere other than the place where they are formally registered and the majority of these people have relocated from a rural area to an urban one. In short, China is undergoing the same sort of demographic change that the United States experienced in the beginning of the twentieth century.
The Government is putting vast resources into improvement of healthcare for the Chinese people. In a recent PR, GE described Beijing as "a new global hub of healthcare innovation." In May 2009 , IBM opened a Healthcare Industry Solutions Lab in China to use IT to tackle the health care challenges in that country. Also in 2009, China announced a plan to "deepen health care system reforms" and its intention to provide universal health care by 2020.
GeckoSystems is pleased that their "collision proof" wheelchair technology will be used to assist in this worthwhile effort. The Chinese government is no doubt anticipating the needs of their elderly and disabled for quality wheelchairs. Worldwide, the average usage for wheelchairs is one percent (1%) of the general population. In China that would be equal to 13,400,000 people.
Worldwide, wheelchair sales per year average 0.0515% of the population. In the Pacific Rim , excluding Japan , that number is only is 0.0138%. In order to meet its stated healthcare goal for 2020, the Chinese government has to manufacture and distribute an estimated 5,270,000 wheelchairs over the next ten years. This will bring them in line with the world average. If only twenty percent (20%) are powered and "collision proofed," that is over 100,000 electric wheelchairs per year, or over 8,000 per month. At an average cost of at least $1,500 each, that represents annual sales of $150,000,000 per year in mainland China alone.
"Our prospective Chinese joint venture partner has already requested mechanical design criteria from our experienced robotics engineers. We are very pleased by their sincerity and level of interest and look forward to updating our over 1300 stockholders as we progress in these negotiations," concluded Spencer.
GOSY-Case Western comparison - I'm not sure why these are so different.
Chair seems to halt more abruptly and veers in a different direction when interference is encountered.
GOSY demo below: At 0:57 and 1:15 chair seems to navigate around the obstacle and resume course.
This feature is critical for those with impaired motor skills and tremor such as in Parkinsons or MS.
Unoccupied chair appears to be "thinking" about where it will go next as opposed to the ricochet effect that seems to occur with the student chair in the first video.
Market is considerable and there seems to be a significant portion that is an unserved market because of tech limitations.
There are approximately 2.2 million people in the United States alone that use a wheelchair for everyday activities. Of that 2.2 million 40% find it almost impossible to steer using controls now on the market. Industry sources estimate that the total world wheelchair market is approximately 3.5 million chairs per year. The personal mobility market in the U.S. is $1.2 billion annually.
International interest seems to be genuine:
Due to their success in retrofitting the initial prototype collision proof wheelchair, GeckoSystems recently received a second wheelchair from Imasen, the oldest wheelchair manufacturer in Japan. This second wheelchair will be used for additional R&D and eventual return to Japan for first hand evaluation. (www.geckosystems.com/investors/press_releases/20110317_GeckoSystems_SellsMobileRobotSolutions.php )
GeckoSystems Successfully Applies Its Mobile Robot Solutions to Improve Wheelchair Safety print Geckosystems Intl Corp (PC) (USOTC:GOSY) Intraday Stock Chart
Today : Thursday 10 November 2011 Click Here for more Geckosystems Intl Corp (PC) Charts.
GeckoSystems International Corporation (Pink Sheets: GOSY | http://www.geckosystems.com/) announced today that they have successfully completed Alpha testing of their new "collision proof" upgrade power wheelchairs. GeckoSystems is a leader in the emerging mobile robotics industry, dedicated to providing Mobile Robot Solutions for Safety, Security and Service™.
"We are very pleased to have completed initial tests of our new 'collision proof' wheelchair prototype. We now have videos on our website that clearly demonstrate the enhanced safety features of a power wheelchair upgraded with GeckoSystems technology. You will see that the upgrade prevents dangerous collisions with both stationary and moving obstacles regardless of joystick position," remarked R. Martin Spencer, President/CEO, GeckoSystems. Videos are available at http://www.geckosystems.com/markets/wheelchair.php.
The Need:
There are approximately 2.2 million people in the United States alone that use a wheelchair for everyday activities. Of that 2.2 million 40% find it almost impossible to steer using controls now on the market. Industry sources estimate that the total world wheelchair market is approximately 3.5 million chairs per year. The personal mobility market in the U.S. is $1.2 billion annually.
Recent market research conducted by GeckoSystems has revealed that in addition to users who rely on power wheelchairs for daily mobility, there is a demand for the collision proof wheelchair in the professional market.
Often, elderly residents of assisted care facilities and nursing homes will begin to have difficulty controlling a power wheelchair as their condition deteriorates. Together, a typical power wheelchair and its occupant weigh approximately 250-350 pounds. An out of control wheelchair can easily damage walls, furniture, or even endanger other patients or staff. The worst-case scenario is a poorly controlled wheelchair that results in traumatic physical damage to the resident or another person in the facility.
When this situation arises, management must address this harsh reality quickly. Elderly residents are often required to suddenly relocate from a familiar care facility to a new facility capable of providing a higher level of care. The family is forced to deal with the emotional issues of the move (further loss of independence, dignity for their parents, spouse, etc.) and in addition there is often a dramatic increase in the monthly cost of providing care for their loved one.
Installation of a "collision proof" upgrade before the damage is done would forestall forced relocation and the trauma and expense that go with it. The upgrade would pay for itself in two to three months. GeckoSystems believes this is a significant market critically in need of a solution.
The Technology:
The software used to dramatically improve wheelchair safety is adapted from the suite of hardware and software solutions GeckoSystems has developed for their elder care and personal assistance robot, the CareBot™. (Now that Alpha testing is completed, the CareBot is expected to go into Beta testing in 2012.) An overview of these technologies is available at http://www.geckosystems.com/technologies/.
"The release of the Microsoft Kinect™ depth camera and its cost advantage over traditional machine vision solutions has helped the company further reduce the projected cost of the upgrade kit. This will make improved safety more affordable for thousands who presently rely on a wheelchair for personal mobility," reflected Spencer.
GeckoSteer™ is a new software and computer interface that was developed specifically for this application. It lies between the mechanical joystick and GeckoNav™, advanced automatic self-navigation software. GeckoSteer was needed to compensate for spasticity, tremor, and other involuntary movements associated with debilitating diseases that affect many wheelchair users.
It should be noted that GeckoSystems now has "proof of concept" for its proprietary suite of Mobile Robot Solutions for Safety, Security and Service™ which may be migrated to mobile platforms (as in the wheelchair) that were not originally designed to be under AI software navigation control. Using GeckoSystems' technology, the company expects many other market opportunities to open up for them in both the domestic and international marketplaces. The sale of collision proof safety upgrades for wheelchairs represents "low hanging fruit" that is ideal for GeckoSystems' entry into the retail market because of the large numbers of power wheelchairs in use and the need for safety upgrades that is expected to lead to rapid adoption in the market.
The Future:
"Now that we have a successful prototype of our 'collision proof' wheelchair upgrade kit, we will progress to visual design improvement and further cost reduction. We expect that technology-licensing revenues will precede revenues from product manufacturing and sales. We believe that our over 1300 stockholders will receive this news as confirmation of their wisdom in investing in GeckoSystems and be encouraged in their expectation of a satisfying return on their investment," concluded Spencer.
About Microsoft: Kinect and Xbox 360 are registered trademarks of Microsoft.
About GeckoSystems: GeckoSystems been developing innovative robotic technology for over fourteen years. It is CEO Martin Spencer's dream to make people's lives better through robotic technology.
GeckoSystems, Star Wars™ Technology
Although the company's primary focus has been an elder care robot, the CareBot™ AI (artificial intelligence) software technology developed for this project is being marketed internationally. The company believes many devices in use today can be improved through the use of its AI navigation software system. The company expects their "collision proof" wheelchair and an upgrade for existing wheelchairs will be the first product of this sort to be marketed.
The company has successfully completed an Alpha trial of its CareBot personal assistance robot for the elderly. It was tested in a home care setting and received enthusiastic support from both caregivers and care receivers. The company believes that the CareBot will increase the safety and well-being of its elderly charges while decreasing stress on the caregiver and the family.
Gecko Systems is preparing for Beta testing of the CareBot prior to full-scale production and marketing. CareBot has recently incorporated Microsoft Kinect motion sensors that will result in a significant cost reduction.
Kinect Enabled Personal Robot video:
Above, the CareBot demonstrates static and dynamic obstacle avoidance as it backs in and out of a narrow and cluttered alley. There is no joystick control or programmed path; movements are smoother that those achieved using a joystick control. AI creates three low levels of obstacle avoidance: reactive, proactive, and contemplative. Subsumptive AI behavior enables the CareBot to reach its target destination after engaging in obstacle avoidance.
One CareBot™, One Family
GeckoSystems stock is quoted in the U.S. over-the-counter (OTC) markets, on the Pink OTC Current Information tier, under the ticker symbol GOSY.
Statements regarding financial matters in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company intends that such statements about the Company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, technology efficacy and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the Safe Harbors created thereby. The Company is a development stage firm that continues to be dependent upon outside capital to sustain its existence. Since these statements (future operational results and sales) involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.
Advances in Component Technologies Drive Innovations in Personal and Service Robotics Market
Ongoing technological advances and growing demand for task automation from various sectors are poised to impact the market for robotics. The need for improved and accurate outputs is driving innovation in robotics across sectors such as aerospace and defense, oil and gas, and industrial automation. Enhancements in component technologies such as cameras, processors, and microphones have ramped up adoption levels in various sectors. Robots are being increasingly used in various maintenance- and safety-related applications. They are also gaining a strong foothold in the home automation segment. "Initiatives launched by industry participants will trigger rapid growth in the market in the next five years," notes the analyst of this research service. "Advancements in robotics have been achieved mainly in the military and industrial sectors due to the huge financial assistance extended to develop and commercialize highly technical and expensive robots." Observations reveal that the use of robots for maintenance-related activities enhances the overall quality of the task and ensures the safety of human workers who are otherwise likely to be employed for hazardous tasks.
Although market prospects look upbeat, there are some challenges restraining forward momentum. The presence of networked embedded systems and proliferation of networks in homes and factories necessitates the smooth operation of robots in such an environment. Moreover, language understanding and dialog systems between human users and robots hinder the deployment of robots in consumer applications. There is also a need to ensure the safety of co-workers, which poses hardware as well as software hurdles for manufacturers. This calls for extensive research and development initiatives from the universities as well as industry participants.
Strategic partnerships by participants from various application sectors with the companies in the field of robotics will aid in new market penetration. Innovative products being rolled out by start up companies are expected to stoke growth in this market. Extensive standardization activities ensure the quality of the product, which, in turn, enhances the confidence level among the end users. "Building and fostering good relationships with universities and independent research houses is essential to achieve optimization of the existing technologies in line with industry requirements," says the analyst. "Financial support to participants with innovative ideas will go a long way in ensuring penetration of robotics into untapped areas such as power, agriculture, and healthcare."
Market Sectors
Expert Frost & Sullivan analysts thoroughly examine the following market sectors in this research:
By End-use Vertical:
- Aerospace and defense - Oil and gas - Industrial automation - Home automation
1. Executive Summary 1.1 Scope of Research 1.2 Key Findings 1.3 Research Methodology
2. Technology Snapshot and Trends 2.1 Technology Development Streams 2.2 Robotic Components 2.3 Key Developments
3. Impact Assessment and Analysis 3.1 Impact of Key Innovations 3.2 Key Drivers 3.2 a Key Drivers Summary 3.2 b Impact of Accelerators 3.3 Key Challenges 3.3 a Key Challenges Summary 3.3 b Impact of Challenges
4. Diffusion of Innovations - Assessment of Applications 4.1 Ranking of Key Application Sectors 4.2 Application Life Cycle Analysis
5. Opportunity Evaluation and Roadmapping 5.1 Application Roadmap for Robotics 5.2 Emerging Trends in Robotics 5.3 Technology Management Strategies
8. Database of Industry Participants 8.1 Industry Contacts 8.2 University Contacts
9. Decision Support Database 9.1 Agricultural Employment (2005-2015) 9.2 Employment in Mining and Quarrying (2005-2015) 9.3 Military Expenditure-Research and Development (2004-2014) 9.4 Occupational Injuries (2006-2016)
The company is a little out of the ordinary, to say the least. CEO Martin Spencer has been working on the concept of a "personal robot" for over 14 years, largely on his own.
He started out trying to make a personal robot for the retail market in 1997. It seems they had a workable concept, people that wanted them and were willing to put money down, but couldn't get the funding to go further because they couldn't find a banker who could grasp the concept.
Now, 14 years later they have a mobile robot which specializes in caretaking. It can keep an eye on kids but the market GOSY wants to address first is seniors. The idea is to keep them in a home care setting (either on their own or with family) as long as possible. The Robot is expected to cost $12,000. Nursing home care averages about $70,000 per year and one short hospital stay costs $20,000. If the CareBot, as it is called, keeps Grandma safe at home for a few more months or if it keeps her out of the hospital just once, there is a positive ROI for the family and the non-financial return - *priceless*.
You can go to the site (www.geckosystems.com) but it's pretty hard to follow so you'll have to be persistent to get the story. I go back to it from time to time and discover things I didn't see before. (I think an engineer built it LOL!)
All of this sounds like just another struggling penny, I know. But this year something interesting has happened. They had a Japanese Wheelchair manufacturer request a demo of a robotic wheelchair. The dream is still the CareBots and I think that is what will really turn the corner for the company, but just having a product in the market will do wonders for the stock price and give the company a chance to raise enough money for the CareBot Beta.
Sorry, I'm just typing as I think of things so this is not well organized.
The CareBot was tested in homes of friends and family last year. The Caregivers loved it and Grandma listend to it and wasn't freaked out. I wish there was more info on the trials on the site, but some of the details I picked up were that the when the old folks thought of it as just another newfangled machine around the house they were comfortable with it. The family member that had to watch Grandma could run to the store and buy groceries while keeping an eye on her with her phone. What I read of the test made a lot of sense.
The company has to raise money to build about 25 robots and run a fully documented Beta test now, and that's where we come back to the wheelchairs.
If the Japanese company goes into production with the wheelchair their technology will be validated, they will be pulling in regular income for the first time in 14 years and the stock price goes up. I expect Beta testing for the CareBot will be successful. If the CareBot goes into production, stock price goes WAY UP.
This is how I see GOSY at this time. Do your own DD, but I like the company and I see them making a very positive contribution to society, which is something I really like to see in a stock.
Mobile Robots: Navigation, Control and Remote Sensing
The theme which prevails throughout this book is the use of mobile robots for sensing objects of interest. This has particular application in environments where humans would be endangered such as in outer space (on the surface of Mars), where volcanoes have erupted (Mount St. Helens), on the battlefield (searching for landmines or improvised explosive devices, IEDs) and numerous others.
An important feature of this book is the particular combination of topics included. These are (1) control, (2) navigation and (3) remote sensing, all with application to mobile robots. Much of the material is readily extended to any type ground vehicle.
In the controls area, robot steering is the issue. Both linear and nonlinear models are treated. Various control schemes are utilized, and through these applications the reader is introduced to methods such as:
- Linearization and use of linear control design methods for control about a reference trajectory - Use of Lyapunov stability theory for nonlinear control design - Derivation of optimal control strategies via Pontryagins maximum principle, - Derivation of a local coordinate system which is fundamental for the steering of vehicles along a path never before traversed
This local coordinate system has application regardless of the control design methods utilized.
In the navigation area, various coordinate systems are introduced, and the transformations among them are derived. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is introduced and described in significant detail. Also introduced and discussed are inertial navigation systems (INS). These two methods are treated in terms of their ability to provide vehicle position as well as attitude. A preceding chapter is devoted to coordinate rotations and transformations since they play an important role in the understanding of this body of theory.
JohnWiley
Reviews:
"The real name of the book must have been 'Mobile Robots: Navigation, Control, and Remote Sensing Made Easy. Under every topic it starts from very basics and continues with the complicated math and topics, examples are finely chosen. The author, Dr. Gerald Cook, handled the navigation topics so well, understanding the difficult topics like the applications of Kalman filters, global positioning systems, Mercator's maps becomes easy. All the theory is explained with examples that are followed by Matlab programs. Obviously it is an excellent book for graduate students who work in the area of Robot Navigation, plus it may also serve as helpful reading material for those who want to work with the Kalman filters, GPS, and earth's maps. The book is also a good source for the people who work in the area of unmanned vehicles."
Dr. Atalay Barkana, Dr. Osman Parlaktuna, Dr. Metin Ozkan, Dr. Ahmet Yazici all of whom are working in the Electrical-Electronics Engineering Department of Eskisehir Osmangazi University
For more information please click on: www.researchandmarkets.com/product/895250/mobile_robots_navigation_control_and_remote
Title Index:
Dedication. Preface.
Introduction to Mobile Robots.
Ch 1. Kinematic Models for Mobile Robots.
1.0 Introduction.
1.1 Vehicles with front-wheel steering.
1.2 Vehicles with Differential-Drive Steering.
Ch 2. Mobile Robot Control.
2.0 Introduction.
2.1 Front-wheel Steered Vehicle, Heading Control.
2.2 Front-wheel steered vehicle, Speed control.
2.3 Control for the Differential-Drive Robot.
2.4 Reference Trajectory and Incremental Control, Front-Wheel Steered Robot.
2.5 Heading Control of Front-Wheel Steered Robot using the Nonlinear Model
2.6 Computed Control for Heading and Velocity, Front-Wheel Steered Robot.
2.7 heading Control of Differential Drive Robot using the Nonlinear Model.
2.8 Computed Control for Heading and Velocity, Differential-Drive Robot.
2.9 Steering Control along a Path Using a Local Coordinate Frame.
2.10 Optimal Steering of Front-Wheel Steered Vehicle.
...someone who works hard enough can always co-opt something for evil.
Let us all hope that Skynet NEVER becomes reality.
Or for that matter, the Matrix.
GOSY's CEO is to be applauded for his non defense use of their mobile robot solutions. Not vilified for his not wanting evil to be done with the good in mobile service robots.
Virtually every major technology gets created by one of two industries - porn (media-based) and defense (everything else). Without the defense business, I doubt there would be a Roomba. As you point out, it's wonderful to say "I'm only building devices which can never be used for harm", but whether it's a commercial airplane or dynamite, despite the original intent, someone who works hard enough can always co-opt something for evil.
Not that I think GOSY had much hope of success anyway, but if Spencer's attitude is as paranoid about misuse of robots as has been suggested, I don't see any hope even if they did have some breakthrough technology. Pretty much by definition, if someone finds a new, better use of technology, the military will be interested.
READY FOR THE ROBOT REVOLUTION? BBC (2/10/11) Stewart, Jon
Researchers believe we are on the cusp of a robot revolution that will mirror the explosive growth of the computer revolution from the 1980s. First, people are going to have to learn to trust the machines, and several groups around the world are working to make it easier to communicate with them.
Interesting - It seems that Panasonic is developing robots with discrete functions. I noted that the hairdresser can't do an updo or dye your roots, LOL. This is what I found:
With the aging of populations in many countries around the world, particularly Japan, there are ever increasing numbers of elderly to care for, but relatively fewer younger people to do the job. Robots have long been seen as a means of filling the gap and Panasonic is set to unveil its latest technology designed to do just that. The three robotic devices set to make their debut at the upcoming 38th International Home Care & Rehabilitation Exhibition (H.C.R.2011) in Tokyo include a communication assistance robot and new models of the company’s Hair-Washing Robot and RoboticBed.
New HOSPI Rimo Hospital Delivery Robot From Panasonic New HOSPI Rimo Hospital Delivery Robot From Panasonic
Panasonic’s “HOSPI” automatic medication delivery robot has already made it into hospitals in Japan and other countries where it is used to sort and transport medications to nurse stations. The HOSPI-Rimo employs the same self guiding technology and high-definition visual communications technology found in HOSPI, but is tasked with serving as an intermediary to provide communication between people who are bedridden or have limited mobility to communicate and others, such as an attending doctor somewhere else in the hospital or far flung friends and family, as if they were interacting face to face.
Like its predecessor that was unveiled at last year’s H.C.R.2010, Panasonic’s new Hair-Washing Robot can perform all the tasks of your favorite hairdresser – minus the gossip – from wetting to shampooing, rinsing, conditioning and drying, as well as a spot massage. Panasonic has updated this latest model to feature washing arms with more fingers – 24 up from 16 – and improved mechanics that Panasonic says delivers a more comfortable wash.
PANASONIC'S HOSPI-RIMO ROBOT TENDS TO PATIENTS CNET (26/9/11) Hornyak, Timt Panasonic has developed a robot with telepresence functions that can help bedridden patients better communicate with loved ones. The bot is a follow-up to the company's Hospi model that delivers prescription drugs. web link http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20111922-1/panasonics-hospi-rimo-robot-tends-to-patients/
by the author: What I have learned in my work in robotics over the last five years is that the industry is in its infancy. Twenty years hence, it will not look anything like we imagined it to be today and the major driver in today’s market (military, law enforcement and first responder applications) will be relegated to less than one percent of the entire global market in robotics. New commercial applications will dwarf today’s markets. We just do not know what and when with any certainty at this early stage.
This board discusses IRBT, GOSY, COWI, and all other publicly traded mobile service robot companies and academic research projects.
All posts should be based on publicly released facts about the discussed technology , charting of a stock or direct personal observation of stock movement.
Purely speculateive posts will be considered off topic.
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