Robots

Robots can help us accomplish repetitive tasks, freeing our mind to pursue more intellectual goals. The TUG Robot, a Linux-based automated transport unit made by Aethon Corp., moves equipment and supplies throughout the halls of hospitals. However recently the simple gray cart has undergone a change of style. San Francisco-based Gensler Architects have converted the design into a colorful toy train, that includes a conductor named Jericho outfitted by The Gap who speaks using the voice of Hollywood actor Don LaFontaine. There are over 100 units installed in hospitals across the country with Children's Hospital as one of the biggest adopters. Senior systems analyst Joel Herbrand commented, "On its first run, a child was coming from the cafeteria and saw it, He yelled 'Train!' and ran in front of it and started touching it. There were a bunch of managers around, and they said 'We guess it's been kid-approved,'" The TUG Robot has been widely admired by staff as well who say it helps them reduce prep time and stay more in touch with patients.