Robots Uniting Brooklynites
August 2023
Cornell University

Introduction
Imagine robots on hoverboards cruising around Brooklyn, doubling as trash cans and social butterflies! Led by Cornell Tech's Frank Bu, these trashbots are not just about keeping the streets clean; they're an experiment in human-robot interaction, sparking connections among locals. Deployed in Albee Square, these robots on a mission have shown how technology can bring communities together, one piece of trash at a time. Dive into this fascinating story from Cornell University and discover how robots are making friends in Brooklyn!
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Robots Among Us - Bridging Tech and Community
Imagine walking through your neighborhood and spotting a pair of robots whizzing around, collecting trash and recyclables. Sounds like a scene from a futuristic movie, right? But in Brooklyn’s Albee Square, this became a reality thanks to an innovative project led by researchers from Cornell Tech. What's fascinating about these "trashbots" isn't just their ability to clean up; it's their potential to spark connections among people in public spaces. This initiative explores how technology, specifically service robots, can influence social interactions and community dynamics. For you, this topic is a window into understanding the intersection of technology, society, and environmental stewardship. It showcases the power of innovation to solve practical problems while also fostering a sense of community. As our world becomes increasingly tech-driven, grasping the implications of such technologies on a global scale can inspire you to think critically about the role of tech in your life and society.
Speak like a Scholar

Human-computer interaction (HCI)
The study of how people interact with computers and to design technologies that let humans interact with computers in novel ways.

Public-service robotics
Robots designed to perform tasks in public spaces for the benefit of the community, like cleaning or providing information.

Social interaction models
Theories or frameworks that explain how individuals communicate and connect with each other in social settings.

Autonomous
A system or machine that can operate independently without human intervention.

""Wizard of Oz"" method
A research technique where subjects interact with a computer system they believe to be autonomous, but which is actually being operated or controlled by a human.

Design guidelines
Recommendations or rules aimed at improving the usability, accessibility, and effectiveness of technology products.
Independent Research Ideas

Comparative study of public-service robotics in different cultures
Investigate how cultural contexts influence the acceptance and effectiveness of service robots in public spaces.

The role of autonomous technology in urban waste management
Analyze the potential impacts and efficiency of using autonomous robots for waste collection in cities.

Human-robot interaction and community dynamics
Explore how the introduction of robots into public spaces affects social interactions and community connections.

Designing user-friendly service robots
Develop design guidelines for creating service robots that are easily accepted and utilized by the public.

Ethical considerations in public-service robotics
Examine the ethical implications of deploying autonomous robots in public spaces, focusing on privacy, safety, and accountability.
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