From robotic dogs to magnetic slime: 6 ways robots are helping humans

From robotic dogs to magnetic slime: 6 ways robots are helping humans

Robots are helping humans in a growing number of places - from archaeological sites to disaster zones to sewers.

The robots can gather data, squeeze into small spaces – even call an elevator.

Automation is expected to create 97 million new roles in the future world of work, according to the World Economic Forum.



Workplace robots are often associated with pushing human workers out of their jobs.

But in numerous settings around the world, robots and related technology, like artificial intelligence, are helping humans with a range of work. This includes jobs that are high-risk and complex – and work in places where humans can’t go.

Here are six examples.













Robots like Spot are helping humans navigate dangerous workplaces.





Image: Archaeological Park of Pompeii











Pompeii’s robot dog

In the ancient Roman ruins of Pompeii, a robot dog called Spot has been enlisted to carry out safety patrols.

The four-legged robot can inspect “even the smallest of spaces in complete safety,” says the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, which looks after conservation for the site near Naples in Italy.

Spot will also help inspect underground tunnels dug by illegal relic hunters that