Ex-Googler's startup comes out of stealth with simple, clever robot design (spectrum.ieee.org)

Article summary

Hello Robot, a startup founded by ex-Googler Aaron Edsinger and robotics professor Charlie Kemp, has introduced a new mobile manipulator robot called Stretch RE1. The robot is designed to be small, lightweight, and affordable, with a price tag of $17,950. Stretch is intended for research and development, but its creators hope it will eventually be used in home environments to assist people. The robot's design features a telescoping arm and a gripper that can pick up objects, and it is capable of teleoperated and autonomous operation.

Main themes

• robotics
• research and development
• affordability
• stability and safety
• consumer applications
• general-purpose robots

What commenters say

• The robot's price point of $18,000 is considered high by some, but others note that it is relatively affordable compared to other research robots.
• Some commenters question the robot's stability and ability to handle heavy objects, while others suggest that it could be improved with modifications such as a quadruped base.
• There is disagreement about the potential for a robot like Stretch to replace traditional appliances like dishwashers, with some arguing that it could be more efficient and others pointing out the limitations and potential drawbacks.
• Some commenters believe that the robot's true value lies in its potential for research and development, rather than as a consumer product.
• The development of a robot like Stretch is seen as a step towards creating more general-purpose robots that can perform a variety of tasks, but others argue that specialized machines may be more practical and efficient.
• There are concerns about the safety and reliability of a robot like Stretch, particularly in a consumer setting, and some commenters suggest that it may not be ready for widespread adoption.