Honda’s Asimo robot conducts the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Robots are increasingly becoming less whimsical and more practical. Photographer: Paul Sancya/AP.In an age when multi-skilling is at a premium, Motoman may prove to be the model employee. When he’s not spot-welding on a car production line, he’s flipping pancakes – with not a drop of spilled batter in sight – and can even be called on to perform routine blood tests.Motoman is one of hundreds of cutting-edge robots exhibited during the past week at the industry’s biennial showcase in Tokyo. Continue reading