In the fifth episode of The Scotsman's Data Capital series, we discuss how data and artificial intelligence are powering a new generation of robots - which could revolutionise many aspects of our modern lives. <br /><br /><br />We hear from Professors Helen Hastie and Yvan Petillot, who are leading the project to create a National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh in early 2022.<br /><br /><br />They talk about recreating real situations in 'living labs' at the Robotarium, to build on existing work on how robotics can improve our lives.<br /><br /><br />Prof Hastie, an expert in human-robot interaction, discusses how robots can support our physical and mental health by identifying changes in behaviour, sending alerts after falls, reducing loneliness and much more. <br /><br /><br />Prof Petillot talks about his work in sending robots into harsh environments where humans cannot go - such as checking on pipelines on the ocean floor. <br /><br /><br />The Professors go on to discuss a fascinating range of issues - including 'How human do we want our robots to look?' and the potential for the Robotarum to be a world-leading facility to develop the brightest young robotics talent.
