It seems that the future of science-fiction lore is nearly a reality. Researchers at the University of California Berkeley have successfully developed software technology that enables robots to fold towels. The team of four researchers, using a prototype version of the PR-2 mobile robotic platform, developed an algorithm that allowed the robot to fold towels that were placed in front of it; even towels that it had not seen before. This is an important revelation because generally speaking, computers often need to "see" an object on a previous occasion in order to recognize it. The robot, using geometric cues provided by the algorithm, was able to fold towels of different sizes, shapes, and materials. While the technology hasn't been refined to the point of consumer ready robot helpers, the obvious benefits to be reaped from this breakthrough are nearly endless. For aging adults with weakened physical capabilities, the ability to have an extra hand helping around the house will be invaluable. If robot helpers are able to accomplish household tasks such as doing the laundry and taking out the trash, many seniors may have the opportunity to live independently while still having some help when needed. Reports that claim the technology used by the researchers was rather inexpensive makes this an even more enticing prospect. Researchers Achieve Breakthrough with Towel-Folding Robot - (Tech News World)