Abstract
The automated process revolution in educational and entertainment robots
promises strong growth that extends beyond the direct markets. Once students
learn how to use robots, they move into industry and make functional robots
for business automated process and for communications and entertainment.
Robots are automating systems, leaving more time for leisure activities. The
educational kits are designed for pure fun and for educational competitions
where students put together modules in innovative ways to create designs that
work.
Robots are set to provide more variety to entertainment as well. The robotic
ability to sing and dance and fight provides endless new modalities of
entertainment as people organize their robots in a creative manner. Innovation
is set to be stimulated by the modular systems that are available in the
robotic community. Humanoid robots and innovative shaped robots are evolving a
place in homes and offices, providing information and communications, as well
as automated locomotion.
The modularity of robot kits makes them versatile and flexible. Modules can be
put together in a variety of ways, give users choices about what functionality
the robot will have.
Educational robots are used by every level of student. Kits are geared to
various age and skill levels. Robotics competitions are being held for every
age level. Students do not yet receive formal education on robots and are more
likely to enter competitions as clubs competing against each other
representing different educational institutions.
The automated process revolution in business process and communications is
being extended to robots. Markets for educational robotic kits at 541,000
units in 2007 are anticipated to reach 35.8 million units by 2014.
As the price comes down and schools begin to institutionalize robotics
programs, there is very fast growth anticipated. Growth at the low end robotic
kits starts to level off as demand increases for robots with more components
and more functionality. Robotics transcends national boundaries. Children in
Germany, Japan, Korea, India and Great Britain all are equally captivated by
robotics systems.
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