In 1977, George Lucas introduced robots R2-D2 and C-3PO to the world in “Star Wars.” Thirty-one years later, Pixar Animation Studios released “WALL-E,” a computer-animated film about a trash-compacting robot. Although many Americans have fallen in love with the personalities of these fictional robots, today’s robots are more admired for their work ethic.
For instance, iRobot Corp. manufactures robots that can vacuum, wash floors, clean pools and clear gutters. Honda Motor Co. also released a robot in Europe that can mow lawns. In the beverage industry, robots can be used in production or warehouse spaces to increase efficiency and improve safety, among other benefits.