Robots for Rent: A New Model for Accessing Automation

The accessibility of advanced robotics is expanding through a rental and subscription-based model, commonly referred to as "robotics-as-a-service" (RaaS). This approach allows businesses and institutions to utilize robots for various tasks without the significant upfront cost of purchasing the machines.

In the healthcare sector, robots like Moxi, developed by Diligent Robotics, are being deployed in hospitals. Moxi, a four-foot-high robot designed to shuttle medical supplies, has become a familiar sight for patients and staff. Diligent Robotics, based in Texas, has approximately 100 Moxi units in operation. The RaaS model for Moxi includes the robot itself, along with service, maintenance, and regular software updates.

Todd Brugger, chief operating officer at Diligent Robotics, explained that this model lowers the initial financial outlay for hospitals. Furthermore, he noted the rapid evolution of robotics technology, which makes ongoing updates and capability enhancements, bundled into the service, particularly valuable.

Beyond healthcare, robot rentals are available for a wide range of purposes, from daily use to long-term projects. Applications include robot bartenders and autonomous agricultural tools for farm work. The RaaS model is also increasingly being adopted for early humanoid robots.

These humanoid models are designed to mimic human appearance and behavior, enabling them to operate in human-centric environments. However, as they are still considered a work in progress, they are often rented for specific, well-defined tasks, frequently in the entertainment industry. Depending on the model, these robots can perform acts such as dancing or serving guests at events.

Ethan Qi, an associate director at Counterpoint Research, points out that tasks like a choreographed dance routine can be relatively straightforward to program. The process often involves training the robot using video footage of a human performance. Engineers may still accompany the robot to ensure smooth operation, especially if the environment or platform is not simple.

The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of the RaaS model are driving its adoption across various sectors, making sophisticated robotic technology more accessible than ever before.