Robot
A robot is a mechanical device capable of interacting with it's enviroment to perform predetermined physical activities. Unlike androids, robots need not be anthropomorphic. The field of science, engineering and technology dedicated to robots is known as robotics.
The word robot in it's modern sense was first coined by writer Karel Čapek in his play RUR and was derived from the Czech word for serf labor. Today, robots are used in a variety of roles, including numerous applications in manufacturing, basic housework such as vacuuming, and as toys and novelty items. Various military forces are developing military robots.
Real-life Robots
- Foster-Miller TALON
- ASIMO
- HRP-4C
- Big Dog
- The Crusher
- Roomba
Robots in Science Fiction
Robots have played a big part in science fiction for most of the twentieth century and often play a focal part. Robots in science fiction frequently possess artificial intelligence.
- Numerous robots in the works of Isaac Asimov
- Numerous droids in Star Wars
- The Cylons from Battlestar Galactica
- The exocomps in Star Trek TNG, as well as Data and other Soong-type androids.
- WALL-E in the film of the same name, in addition to many other robots
- Various war robots in the Terminator series of movies
- Atlas and P-Body in Portal
- LOKI, FENRIS, and YMIR mechs in Mass Effect.
In military science fiction, combat robots often play a role in battle. The battle droids of Star Wars are prime examples.
See Also
External Links
- [1]-Britannica Online Article on Robots.