As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there were several advanced humanoid robots and robotic technologies developed for various purposes. However, please note that the field of robotics and AI is continually evolving, and new developments may have occurred since then. Here are some examples of human-like robots and their applications up to that point:
ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility): Developed by Honda, ASIMO was one of the most well-known humanoid robots. It was designed to walk, run, climb stairs, and interact with humans. ASIMO was often used for research in human-robot interaction and as a demonstration of advanced robotics technology.
Sophia: Developed by Hanson Robotics, Sophia gained fame for its human-like appearance and ability to simulate facial expressions. It has been used in various events and interviews to showcase the potential of AI and robotics in human interaction.
Boston Dynamics Robots: Boston Dynamics has developed several humanoid and quadrupedal robots, including Atlas and Spot. These robots are designed for tasks like navigation, mobility, and even complex physical activities like parkour. They have applications in industries such as logistics, construction, and research.
Robotic Surgeons: Robots like the da Vinci Surgical System are used in the medical field to assist surgeons in performing minimally invasive surgeries with high precision.
Social Robots: Some robots are designed for social interaction, companionship, and therapy. They are used in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and schools to provide companionship or assist with therapy for individuals with special needs.
Research and Exploration: Humanoid robots have been used in research environments, such as the Robonaut developed by NASA for tasks on the International Space Station (ISS).
Entertainment and Education: Humanoid robots are used in entertainment and education, such as in theme parks and museums, to provide interactive experiences and information to visitors.
Exoskeletons: While not fully humanoid, exoskeletons are wearable robotic devices that augment human capabilities. They are used in medical rehabilitation and industrial settings to assist with heavy lifting and reduce physical strain.
AI Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: While not physical robots, AI chatbots and virtual assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa use natural language processing to interact with users in human-like ways.
It’s important to keep in mind that while humanoid robots have made significant progress, they are not yet as capable or versatile as humans in terms of mobility, adaptability, and general intelligence. Most humanoid robots are specialized for specific tasks and are not fully autonomous or self-aware.
Since the field of robotics and AI is rapidly evolving, it’s advisable to check the latest news and developments for the most current information on humanoid robots and their applications in the world today.