As of 2020, more than 2.5 million robots are working in various industries. Experts believe that as robotic technology becomes more readily available, more countries and corporations will adopt its usage.
There has been a lot of robot advancements in the health industry in recent years. That’s why today, we’re going to discuss how robotics in health-related industries are shaping the world of tomorrow.
Surgical Health Robot
Surgical robots are the most common type of robotics in healthcare areas. And one of the oldest robots in this field is the Vinci surgical robot. This robot uses 3D HD vision to give the user a clear image of the surgery and uses tiny wristed instruments to help it bend and rotate better than humans.
Of course, this robot still requires a certified doctor to operate. Yet, some healthcare robots in development will be free from human intervention.
For example, Google and Johnson & Johnson are developing surgical robot systems that’ll automate certain types of surgeries. The surgeries it’ll be capable of doing will be simple. But as these companies do more research, it will be possible to perform complex surgeries.
Exoskeleton Robots
The orthopedic industry has also seen a major increase in the usage of robots. One type of robot that has been breaking all the barriers is the HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) exoskeleton. It uses neuron sensors placed on the patient skin to detect small electrical signals, making the exoskeleton move.
This exoskeleton helps patients with limb disorders, strokes, or spinal cord injuries recover at a faster rate than normal. Yet, the major downside of this health robot is that it’s expensive to have and upkeep. So, only very limited healthcare facilities use it.
Care Robots
The robotics market in healthcare for elderly patients has also seen a significant change. For example, Japan has been using robotic caregivers to help with the overabundance of elderly people.
That’s why RIKEN and Sumitomo Riko, the two leading robotics companies in Japan, have been striving to improve their Robear (caregiver robot). The Robear is capable of tasks like:
- Taking blood
- Recording temperature
- Helping with patient hygiene
And, it can do all these things without the need for human intervention. Additionally, the Robear can aid nurses at hospitals by carrying patients while the nurse cleans their bed.
Toyota and Honda have also developed a caregiving robot like the Robear, but they aim to create a therapeutic robot that mimics a cat or dog.
Robotics in Health-Related Industries Are Changing Our Lives
As you can see, robotics in health-related areas are quickly changing how doctors and other medical staff perform their duties. And as time passes, we can expect more advancements to take place in this field, making it more affordable for healthcare facilities to use. But, until that time comes, you’ll need to continue to trust your health needs with a human doctor.
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