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autonomy. They simply perform the same task or tasks over and over until they are directed to stop by humans or they break down. These types of robots need human operators and, because no type of technology works perfectly forever, maintenance mechanics to keep them going. Two well-known stationary robots that are the exception to the practice of being fixed in one place are Amazon.com’s Kiva and ReThink’s Baxter robots. Kiva is basically a smart robot forklift that travels around Amazon warehouses to gather products that will be shipped to customers. It can move at a steady 5 miles (8 kilometers) per hour and carry packages weighing up to 700 pounds (317.5 kilograms). At many Amazon warehouses, armies of Kiva robots roam the factory floors gathering up merchandise for human workers to package and ship. The bots are managed by a central computer that keeps them from bumping into each other as they work. Kiva robots have helped Amazon cut operating expenses by about 20 percent, according to a study by Deutsche Bank. Baxter is a stationary robot that has been designed to work both independently and collaboratively with humans. Some describe it as even friendly in a human way. It has a rectangular head with human-like eyes and sensors that allow it to react and interact with its environment, including humans. Baxter can be trained to perform a variety of tasks, such as packing and unpacking items; operating heat and seal, welding, and stamping machines; and packaging products. If Baxter encounters any problems as it works, the robot makes a confused face and the human operator can step in to address the problem. Baxter does not have legs, but it can be moved by humans to various work areas in the factory as needed.

CHAPTER 1: WHAT DO ROBOTICS DEVELOPERS DO? 15