Ethical Issues:
Solutions to foreseeable misuses:
Certain components such as the microcontroller should be encased in a housing that is difficult to disassemble.
Such components will make use of try wing screws, ultrasonic welding, and the potting of electrical components.
Include warnings so users know of potential dangers when using the robot (e.g., not allowing children to operate).
Set a range/boundary for the robot's operations to prevent the possibility of delivering malicious packages.
Constant GPS/cellular data will be sent to the user to notify them if the robot leaves set boundary and to prevent theft.
Security patches will regularly be put out to prevent hackers from gaining access to the onboard system.
Product Liability:
Solutions to changes that may occur during the useful lifetime:
Option to limit the amount of objects that can be detected based on what the user should be using the robot for.
Introduce modular components for the biggest points of failure (e.g., battery, gripper, sensor) so the user can easily swap components.
Introduce automatic software and firmware updates on a regular basis (improved neural net and objection code)
Social Impact:
Solutions to disposal after the useful life has ended:
Proper e-waste recycling
Taking the robot to an e-waste facility to have it properly recycled and disposed of
Selling the robot to:
Other users that might prefer a used product for cheaper
Back to the company for refurbishment and reuse
These solutions refer to the potential hazards found in the page linked below: