Module 4 technology unit 4 a reading and vocabulary exercise 9, page 59 where are the Robots?0:01
Science fiction writers, including Jules Verne and Isaac Asimov, wrote about rockets to the moon, nuclear power, the Internet, and robots.0:28
All of these things are now a reality.0:37
That is, of course, except for the robots.0:40
So where are these household robots we were promised?0:43
Where are our robot helpers to do the ironing, cook dinner, walk the dog, clean the house, and so on?0:47
It is true that we have already got some robots which can perform a single task, such as vacuuming the carpets or mowing the lawn.0:55
But what about the human, like companions we were promised that can walk, talk, and cater for all our needs?1:03
Perhaps it is much more difficult in practice than in theory to build such a robot.1:11
The truth is that for such a robot to exist, it must be able to think, and scientists simply don't know how to give robots this ability.1:17
They don't have the knowledge to give a robot intelligence or the power of reasoning.1:27
Worse still, it seems that they may never work it out.1:32
Researchers say that the best way to overcome this problem is to study the human brain and try and create an artificial brain that copies its functions.1:36
Nevertheless, scientists have already overcome other problems, such as mobility.1:47
For example, Honda's Asimo robot can walk, run, and climb stairs without any problems.1:53
Also, robots can now look more human, thanks to roboticist David Hansen's invention of a skin covering called frubber, which has been used on robots such as rappelier Q2.2:01
Language may be another obstacle, as robots have to be able to understand figurative speech, such as idioms, as well as gestures and emotional responses.2:13
All in all, experts are divided as to when robot assistance may become a reality.2:24
Some say five years, others say 50.2:30
Soon, household robots may be as common as home computers.2:35
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