Towards an embedded robotic environment (ERE) in existing buildings

This article analyzes the possibilities for integrating robotic appliances in the built environment. Since the industrial revolution period, services have been integrated into the building’s infrastructure. The building elements could be modified in order to get a better interrelation. An interdependent design between a robotic system and the building elements is proposed. Obviously, there are several options and there is also the necessity to implement an Embedded Robotic Environment. In order to establish a financially efficient approach considering the return on the investment, the robotic system should be multitasking. Additionally, the proposed system could be adapted to the forthcoming elderly society’s needs, considering the current demographic change issues. For instance, on one hand it could be used explicitly for construction operations, such as building maintenance and interior maintenance and upgrading. On the other hand, it could be also used for servicing the needs of the inhabitants, such as cleaning, cooking, transporting heavy items or generally assisting in the activities of daily living. It must be noted that the weight of the robot should be as relatively limited, in order not to overload the home environment structure. Adapting such a concept into new buildings by integrating it during into the building construction phase could be possible, but integrating it into an existing building environment will be a tougher issue. The robotic systems will be embedded into building subsystems such as primary systems (structure: columns, beams, structural walls, etc.) interior/exterior walls, suspended / ceilings, raised/ floors, service areas, utilities etc.      «

This article analyzes the possibilities for integrating robotic appliances in the built environment. Since the industrial revolution period, services have been integrated into the building’s infrastructure. The building elements could be modified in order to get a better interrelation. An interdependent design between a robotic system and the building elements is proposed. Obviously, there are several options and there is also the necessity to implement an Embedded Robotic Environment. In order...     »