Why Gilbert

If you see Similar Projects you will notice there are already many projects whose focus is humanoid robotics. Why add another to the mix?

The differentiator right now, is Gilbert’s focus on being -for lack of better descriptor- an autonomous butler. The focus is not on balance or terrain traversal (Though no doubt these are important, most homes are traversable with wheels and potentially a skid to traverse stairs, balancing on two-legs is not a requirement), nor is the focus on conversing capability or facial expression (though -again- there are certainly benefits in that space). The focus is on a robot that understands it’s environment, can get around with minimal complexity, and -most importantly- interact with its environment to perform tasks. This requires a virtuous conscious, an ability to orient and localize it’s body within en environment, and to understand what objects can be interacted with and how to accomplish those tasks.

All of this with the intent that a robot can perform the tasks we don’t want to do so we have more time for the things we do want to do.

  • We need more time to spend together. To play games (whether football or fortnight)

  • We need a tool that can help us all complete our daily tasks to give us more time for others, to reduce our stress levels, so that we can live better for each other.

    • A less stressed parent will be more empathetic and more attentive.

    • A less stressed teacher perhaps have enough time to take a breath, to slow down, and more readily address a student’s needs

    • As a worker at any level, reduced stress can help allow us to be more diligent, and ultimately provide better solutions.

  • My wife wants to spend less time folding clothes and washing dishes.

  • I want to spend less time cleaning around the house, and spend more time with my family.

  • I wish I had a robot that could decorate the house for me on holidays because decorating is not my forte'

  • I wish there was something to cook something wholesome instead of frozen foods.

  • Elderly persons could use a tool to help around the house.

  • Those facing dementia or in general those who may seclude themselves from social situations could use just a tool to converse with on top of something to help with upkeep, though keep in mind that capabilities like conversing is a secondary objective.

  • We need more time to help solve more complex problems of our world, and to leave a better legacy to those that come after us.