[IronJack]

I can't see a big market for a device that has to cost more than your house and whose only purpose is to turn on the TV and fetch a soda now and then.

The Japanese are making tremendous progress in robotics, but they're still far from making anything useful to the home market.

By the way, does anyone know why Americans don't seem to be doing ANY research into robotics? Is that another industry we've outsourced because we're too lazy or stupid to do the work?

[GregoryFul]

By the way, does anyone know why Americans don't seem to be doing ANY research into robotics?

I know that Carnegie-Mellon University has been researching robotics for a long time now. And of course there is IRBT, makers of the Roomba, if that counts. Auto makers use lots of robots, probably not the kind you're thinking of.

I would think that the liabilities of making and marketing the human like, helper robot in this country will inhibit all but the most crazed entrepreneur.