Business Insider Visits Reflex Robotics

# TL;DR This article introduces Brooklyn-based startup Reflex Robotics and its warehouse robot. Although it cannot talk, it simulates human interaction through nodding, shaking its head, rolling, and gaze tracking. The robot is about to open a restaurant/cafe. ## Background Reflex Robotics is a startup based in Brooklyn. Its warehouse robot will soon be deployed in a restaurant or cafe. The robot doesn't chat with people, but its movements and reactions are designed to feel human-like. ## How the Robot Interacts ### Head Movements: Nodding and Shaking The robot can tilt forward like nodding to mean "yes," or shake its head left and right to mean "no" — a yaw motion. ### Rolling Capability The robot has a unique rolling function that allows it to move laterally, adding flexibility. ### Gaze Tracking The robot turns toward the person speaking, maintaining eye contact. ## Adjusting Height for Eye Level During a test, a staff member asked the robot to adjust its height so it could speak at eye level with a colleague named Jeremy. After the robot complied, Jeremy commented: "I think the more direct eye contact actually does something." ## Task Execution Example Jeremy interacted with the robot that day and gave a series of instructions: - "I want you to water this plant, and then if you could also give this plant a little water." - "I want you to arrange the items in this box into three rows. Put the medicine bottles separately, the condiments in one row, and everything else in a third row." - "Nice work. Can you make me a burger? I'd like a slice of cheese, and then add a little bit of that Capital City Mambo sauce. Thanks." The robot performed these tasks well. ## Jeremy's Experience When asked how natural the interaction felt, Jeremy said: "I think it feeling less human actually makes the interaction less stressful. It doesn't feel uncanny — more like cute." ## Future Application: Restaurant/Cafe Reflex Robotics is preparing to put its robot into a real service setting — a restaurant or cafe. Based on current performance, the robot can handle tasks like pouring water, organizing items, making burgers, and brewing espresso, indicating it will play a supporting role in the food service industry. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hbi4A3U5VTg