PHARMACISTS are the public's trusted listeners in the bustling world of health and wellness.
But imagine if robots, outfitted with super-sensitive listening skills, joined the pharmacy staff - able to identify pills, shake out cough syrup quantities, or tap their metallic fingers on a bottle to confirm its contents.
Duke University researchers are one step closer to making this sci-fi scenario a reality with SonicSense, a robot with 'ears' (well, touch-based mics) that can 'hear' vibrations, analyse objects, and 'feel' in a way that's almost human.
Set to be showcased at the upcoming Conference on Robot Learning, SonicSense uses contact microphones embedded in its fingertips to interpret an object's vibrations when tapped, shaken, or held.
If it recognises an object - like your trusty vitamin bottle - it might take just four taps.
And if it's something new, it'll keep trying until it's cracked the case.
"This tech lets robots explore their surroundings beyond just what they see," said Duke University's Prof Boyuan Chen.
Who knows? Soon, SonicSense might give pharmacists a helping 'hand' by expertly sorting meds and tuning into what we all need most - a quick, reliable assistant.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 30 Oct 24
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