Welcome to episode two of the AI Ireland podcast, the show that breaks down the hype and explores the impact that Data Science, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence are making on our everyday lives.
Our goal is to share with you the insights of technologists and data science enthusiasts to showcase the excellent work that is been done within AI in Ireland.
In today’s episode, I sit down with Conor McGinn who is the assistant professor at Trinity College’s Robotics and Innovation Lab. In November 2017, Conor and the team in the Robotics and Innovation Lab first unveiled their prototype care robot Stevie, which is designed to work in assisted care facilities to help the elderly and people living with disability in Ireland.
The robot uses cameras along with depth, tactile, inertial and voltage sensors to interact intelligently with its environment. Sounds, lights, facial expressions and body language help it to communicate and respond appropriately to different situations, while on-board processors and wireless connectivity such as Wifi and Bluetooth diversify its potential uses. In addition to performing routine tasks in nursing homes and assisted care facilities, the robot can also interact socially with residents.
The Trinity team consulted with a wide range of experts during the robot’s development, including nurses and caregivers, as well as elderly patients living in assisted care facilities. They aim to have Stevie market-ready by 2021 and over the next couple of years, they will be piloting the technology in several care facilities in both Ireland and the United States.
In this podcast, you will learn about:
- How Conor became interested in AI and Robotics
- His experience working with the NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre
- Creating Stevie, the care robot
- The problems they are looking to solve with Stevie
- The social benefits that Stevie can bring to the elderly community
- Where he sees the future of AI and Robotics heading in the next few years
- A need for discussion on ethics and consent with robots
What did you make of Conor’s podcast? Where do you see the future of AI and robotics heading in the near future? I would love to hear your thoughts so please leave a comment below.
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AI Awards 2018: Applications Now Open
Connecting Ireland’s AI ecosystem for a higher purpose
Applications are now open for you to take part in the inaugural AI Awards and showcase your skills and expertise to the AI community on the island of Ireland.
The AI Awards is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting, advancing and rewarding corporate and academic excellence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation, research & development and products.
It is our mission to support the AI community by recognising the hard work and dedication of those working in the field and to help promote and market Ireland globally as the first-choice home for AI investment and job creation in research and product development.
View the full list of categories here.