Last year (2005), the news was full of stories about robots. On the industrial side, the North American robotics industry posted 30% growth through the first three quarters (the latest data available).

In other, less traditional markets such as law enforcement, there were monthly reports of mobile robots used for bomb detection and disposal in the U.S. and across the world. Unmanned robotic vehicles have been used for assessing hurricane damage from Katrina; to watch borders; and go on missions to improve safety for our soldiers and first responders. On the surgical front, robots are assisting doctors in delicate surgery that yields more accuracy with less cutting and speedier recovery times.