Page 17 - Toucpad robotics C11

Brief History and Evolution of Robotics
First AMR
Autonomous Mobile Robot: can
imagine with fixed paths
First Commercial Amazon's first
Computer-Controlled Robot fully AMR
Roomba's first AMR

Shaley Stanford Cincinnati Milacron T3
First AGV First Cobot
Automated Guided Vehicle: First (collaborative robot) able to
follows a fixed path Humanoid Robot operate safely near people
DJI's first drone
Phantom 1

Barrett Electronics WABOT-1 Northwestern Tesla's first
humanoid
Optimus
1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020
The concept of automated machines has fascinated humans for centuries. Ancient civilisations had basic automatons
driven by water or clockwork. However, the term “robot” itself was coined much later by Czech playwright Karel Čapek
in his 1920 play “R.U.R.” (Rossum’s Universal Robots), where he imagined artificial workers.
The true birth of modern robotics began in the mid-20th century with significant milestones:
Early Industrial Robots (1960s): The first industrial robot, called “Unimate,” was introduced in 1961 by George Devol
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and Joseph Engelberger. It was used in General Motors factories for tasks like handling hot die castings, which were
dangerous for humans. These early robots were primarily pre-programmed manipulators.
Advancements in Computing (1970s-1980s): The rapid development of microprocessors and computer technology
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allowed robots to become more sophisticated. They could perform more complex calculations, store more data, and
become more versatile.
Rise of Artificial Intelligence (1990s-Present): The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a game-changer.
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AI has given robots the ability to learn, adapt, make decisions in uncertain environments, and interact more naturally
with humans. This is where the concepts of autonomous and semi-autonomous operation truly come into play.
The evolution of robotics showcases a journey from simple, pre-programmed machines to highly intelligent, adaptable
systems that are transforming industries, healthcare, exploration, and even our daily lives.

Robots Are Learning Human Emotions

Humanoid robots like Sophia and Pepper are designed to read human emotions
through facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. They can respond with
BRAINY smiles, nods, or empathetic phrases. While they don’t actually feel emotions, this
FACT “emotional intelligence” makes them more natural in customer service, education, or
therapy. For example, a robot therapist can help reduce loneliness in elderly people.
It raises the question: if a robot acts empathetic, does it matter that it
isn’t truly “feeling”?

The Festival Fiasco
At a festival in China, a dancing robot behind a safety barrier suddenly lurched at the crowd,
startling everyone. Security guards rushed in and pulled it back, while onlookers snapped
photos. Engineers said later it was a “program setting error”—and set new rules for robot
public performances.
actual funny
incidents Learning: Always test robots thoroughly before letting them meet a crowd.

15
Introduction to Robots: What Exactly are They?