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The robots are coming! Whether you believe they’re coming to rule us or support us, it’s safe to say that what seemed like a far off, “science fiction-y” future in terms of robots, is closer than we think. In fact, Liberty got to meet a few of them at the TechCrunch Session for Robotics on May 11 on the UC Berkeley campus.

At the show, we got to meet a range of playful and life-changing robots that have clearly been in development for years. We loved Marty from the show. Based out of the UK, Marty is a fully programmable, walking robot. Marty helps teach programming, electronics, and mechanical engineering in a fun, challenging and engaging process. The brainchild of Robotical CEO Sandy Enoch, Marty was created to help Sandy’s niece learn how to code. Sandy’s goal was to create something that was accessible to makers and educators to help support blossoming interests in robotics in STEM programs.

Perhaps the most altruistic robotics company at the show was the SuitX. They offer an array of robotic modules that strap on as an exoskeleton to assist humans in performing everyday actions, such as walking, lifting, bending over and squatting. This includes the PhoeniX exoskeleton, intended to help those with mobility disorders to be upright and mobile, and the BackX exoskeleton that augments its wearers lower back strength by 60%, and greatly minimizes the risk of back injuries among workers.

Finally we have Multiply Labs, at first look, it might be easy to confuse them for a personalized vitamin offering, creating customizable supplements based on the individual’s needs. But upon further review, the capsules (and their ingredients) have been 3D printed by one of the Multiply Labs machines. So unlike the others, the robot itself is not meant for personal use, but instead has the capacity for use in hospitals and pharmacies to create personalized supplements for individuals.

In addition to meeting and seeing all these robots (plus more) first hand, the sessions included panels and workshops from roboticists working on advanced machinery that’s going to alter our futures drastically.

But for me, one of the most heartwarming parts of the whole day was watching the demonstrations from future roboticists that are guaranteed to shake things up – some still in high school who were dressed up and set to go to their prom later that evening.

Suzanne Hero

Suzanne is an Account Director at Liberty Communications.

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