University of Nottingham: Shaping the future of assistive robots at public event

As robots developed to help with everyday tasks in the home get closer to reality, computer scientists at the University of Nottingham want to find out what people think of this new Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.

The Knowledge Café is being held on the 30th June to give the public the opportunity to see some assistive robots in action and participate in discussion on the benefits and risks of these robots, how data is used in their development, and how GDPR, AI regulation, and ethics can minimise these risks.

Intelligent assistive robots are being researched and developed to offer support with practical tasks to older people, helping to maintain a high standard of health and well-being.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a key element of these robots which need accurate datasets to be able to function. Every AI model is trained and evaluated using this data, quite often in the form of datasets that have been collected in the past and might not be relevant any longer. Researchers are dependent on the data samples to train and test algorithmic systems in order to develop AI embodied robots and enable them to perform their tasks effectively.

Data from participants in research projects like these are needed for the design, programming, construction and testing of these robots.

Praminda Caleb-Solly, Professor of Embodied Intelligence at the University of Nottingham is leading this research and said: “These new technologies hold not only advantages but also a variety of concerns regarding their direct and indirect effects on society and getting insights from the general public is vital if we are to develop robots that are accepted and fit people’s needs. This event is crucial for creating the opportunity for public debate and awareness of AI in healthcare, and supporting responsible research and innovation and we hope people will get involved and share their views with us!”