AI in Robotics - Notes
History of AI in Robotics
Artificial Intelligence in robotics dates back to the mid-20th century, where early robots were hard-coded for
specific tasks. Over time, AI was integrated to enable robots to perform complex tasks, perceive their
environment, and adapt to changes. Milestones include Shakey the robot (1966), industrial automation in the
1980s, and modern autonomous systems.
State of the Art
Current AI-enabled robots utilize machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and
real-time decision-making. Applications include autonomous vehicles, warehouse automation, surgical
robots, and domestic assistants. Deep learning and reinforcement learning have significantly advanced
robotic perception and control.
Need for AI in Robotics
AI empowers robots with autonomy, adaptability, and decision-making capabilities. As tasks become less
structured and environments more dynamic, traditional programming is insufficient. AI allows robots to
perceive, plan, learn from experience, and interact naturally with humans, making them more versatile and
capable.
Thinking and Acting Humanly
Thinking humanly involves modeling human cognitive processes using AI techniques. Acting humanly implies
AI in Robotics - Notes
that robots should behave indistinguishably from humans. This includes speech, facial recognition, and
emotional intelligence. Turing Test is a classic benchmark for acting humanly.
Intelligent Agents
An intelligent agent perceives its environment through sensors and acts upon it through actuators to achieve
goals. It can be simple (reactive) or complex (goal-based, utility-based, or learning agents). These agents
form the backbone of autonomous robotics systems.
Structure of Agents
Agent structure consists of:
- Sensors: To perceive the environment.
- Actuators: To perform actions.
- Architecture: Reactive, deliberative, hybrid.
- Agent Function: Maps percepts to actions.
Well-structured agents lead to efficient, goal-driven robotic systems.