ROBOTS
A robot is a machine that appears to think and act for itself. The simplest type of robot is a mechanical toy, or automaton, which has been programmed to perform a series of actions that usually have no real function. Some robots are remote-controlled devices, guided at a distance by a human operator. The most complex robots have artificial intelligence – an ability to make decisions for themselves, solve problems, and learn.
- SURGEON ROBOT Surgical robots, such as da Vinci, can insert minute instruments and a viewer called an endoscope into an incision just 1 cm (0.4 in) wide. The surgeon studies the operation site on a screen and moves the robot’s instruments by remote control.
- HUMANOIDS Humanoid robots, such as Jia Jia, iCub, and NAO, are created to resemble human beings. They have a head and a face, and while some walk on two legs, others may roll on tracks or wheels.
NAO’s flexibility allows it to play football and perform complex dance routines.
- ANIMAL ROBOTS Robots that imitate the way different types of animals move and behave are vital steps in the development of ranges of movement that may be needed in robots of the future.
- INDUSTRIAL ARMS Most industrial robots are computer-controlled mechanical arms. They do jobs that would be difficult or dangerous for humans, or jobs that require constant repeated actions. A robot can do all these jobs more quickly or accurately than a human – and without needing to rest.
- SPACE TRAVELLERS In space, robot spacecraft and surface vehicles called rovers, such as Mars 2020, are sent to explore places that are too dangerous to send human astronauts. The movements of these robots are pre-programmed or directed from Earth, though the rovers also use camera data to avoid obstacles.
- HELP AT HOME Although no one yet has an android servant doing all the domestic chores, some robots are at work in homes, performing repetitive jobs such as vacuuming floors and mowing lawns. These robots are programmed to avoid hazards in their paths.
- HELPING AT WORK Robots are increasingly equipped to help humans carry out tasks that may be boring, repetitive, or dangerous. They work independently, guided by sensors and cameras, and can sustain themselves in bad weather, tight spaces, and rugged terrain.
- MILITARY ROBOTS Robot vehicles are useful in warfare because they can enter dangerous situations without risking lives. Robot devices conduct surveillance over enemy land and can find and dispose of bombs and landmines while the operator remains at a safe distance.
Picture Credit : Google
