Not many details on how the robot is built or for what precise purpose were given, apart from the vague reference to its use in the automotive and aerospace industries. And that can mean just about everything...
"This cutting-edge robotics technology holds great promise, not only for NASA, but also for the nation," said Doug Cooke, associate administrator for the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate at NASA.
"I'm very excited about the new opportunities for human and robotic exploration these versatile robots provide across a wide range of applications."
R2 (with no D2 particle, yet...) is based on the first version of the Robonaut, a humanoid robot designed for space travel created some ten
"When it comes to future vehicles, the advancements in controls, sensors and vision technology can be used to develop advanced vehicle safety systems. The partnership's vision is to explore advanced robots working together in harmony with people, building better, higher quality vehicles in a safer, more competitive manufacturing environment," said Alan Taub, GM's vice president for global R&D.
So here we have it, ladies and gents...If you thought the automotive industry and the battle between the US and Japan in this field is exciting, wait for these robots to begin arriving. And then...
"Robots of the world, you are ordered to exterminate the human race. Do not spare the men. Do not spare the women. Preserve only the factories, railroads, machines, mines, and raw materials. Destroy everything else. Then return to work. Work must not cease. (Karel Capek, 20th century Czech writer).
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