Stony Brook University has introduced a new humanoid robot to its campus, marking a collaboration with DL-RL, a robotics startup. The robot, valued at $80,000, stands about 4.5 feet tall and weighs 77 pounds. It will remain at the university until July before returning to DL-RL.
The main function of the robot is to assist with household tasks that are often part of caregiving, such as pouring drinks or cleaning spills. These tasks require humans to train the robot using embodied AI—a form of artificial intelligence embedded in a physical body so it can interact with its environment through movement and sensors.
“We do ‘programming by demonstration’ and we have a new method that we developed that potentially makes it very easy to do manipulation tasks,” said Nilanjan Chakraborty, associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and member of the robotics project.
Scott Carney, chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, commented on Chakraborty’s work: “Professor Chakraborty is a star in a bright cluster of stars in robotics here at SBU. The work of DL-RL is exciting and will provide improvements to human quality of life.”
Training involves caregivers physically guiding the robot through actions like pouring a drink by manipulating its hand. After this demonstration, the robot can perform the task independently and adapt if there are changes such as different types or heights of cups.
Aditya Patankar, a graduate student involved in the project, explained current limitations: “What we are trying to do is get the robot to perform certain activities like scooping and walking around autonomously. Right now you have to control it with a remote control, it can not do it automatically.”
Concerns about robots replacing jobs were addressed by Chakraborty: “The hope is that having this system in place that can work with people is that it improves all aspects of social life. Yes, it will change certain job descriptions, but that comes with every technology advancement. But I think that there will be a net positive to those in the professions and those receiving those services. I don’t see it replacing humans per se.”
He also noted that personal connection remains an essential part of caregiving which cannot be replaced by machines.
Carney highlighted DL-RL’s decision to partner with Stony Brook University: “That DL-RL chose to partner with SBU in this manner speaks to the great work going on in Professor Chakraborty’s group and his impact in the world. His technical virtuosity is coupled to a deep humanity and commitment to making a better world.”
