Technology in Sci-fi Discussion #4: Robotics

The development of robots has been a game-changer across a wide variety of industries. But before robots ever became an integral part of our world, they were imagined by sci-fi writers to be incredibly sophisticated machines often equipped with artificial intelligence (Click here for the previous Technology Discussion on AI). In this technology discussion, we’ll take a look at the uses of modern robots, how they are perceived, and how they may advance in the near future.

What are robots?

In the manufacturing industry, we define a robot as a  programmable machine which is capable of performing a complex set of tasks. Robots are different from a regular automated machine in that they may be reprogrammed to perform an entirely different task without physical alterations other than exchanging an end effector. This makes a robot an incredible asset to a wide variety of operations.

 

What are robots used for today?

While robots do have their limits, the uses for such adaptable machines are numerous. There are many different kinds of robots that can be implemented into various processes depending on the needs of the operation. Some of the specifications to be considered when deciding which robot to use include speed and precision of motion, capacity to lift heavy loads, and the capability to collaborate with other robots or a human operator. For example, robots that work on an automobile assembly line are equipped to work together to assemble car parts, or to lift a vehicle chassis from one conveyor to another. Robots used in hospitals to perform surgeries are capable of much greater precision, and will operate based on commands given by a surgeon.

Reality or Sci-fi?

Although the robots of today are incredible machines, most people don’t picture the robotic arms that are common in industry when they think of “robots.” Instead, they see the advanced humanoid machines that have come to serve, destroy, or save humanity. This is due to the effect that science fiction has had on our perception of robotics.

Slowly, that vision of the future is being realized. Recent developments in the fields of robotics and mechatronics have yielded amazing results. Every year robots are becoming more like what science fiction writers have been imagining for the past one-hundred years. Humanoid robots that are capable of running, jumping, and opening doors have become a reality. Even so, we’re a long way off from creating Ultron, or any of the similar robots that are prominent in sci-fi.

Although robots are already well-integrated into our world in so many ways, there is still a line between what our current technology is capable of, and what is fiction. In the case of Ultron, perhaps that’s for the better.

 

What do you think of robotics? Join the discussion in the comments below!