Robots

Robots are indexed separately because they are not computers, even though they frequently utilize computers to help with the complex chores one wishes/expects from robots.

[Items bolded are currently on display at the Computer Museum History Center.]

Robots

Some of these robots were designed to perform specific tasks too dangerous for humans, and are currently used in industry and research. Many were built as experiments, helping researchers explore how robots could gather and use sensory data through computerized vision, sonar, touch and movement. The topics that this web page will cover:


Robot arms were among the first robots developed and are by far the most common. They perform a wide variety of industrial tasks too dangerous or repetitious for human workers.


Hands and grippers simulate the sensitive touch of human fingers. Robot hands attached to industrial robot arms do difficult assembly work and make fine, accurate adjustments that are not possible for human hands.


Hoppers and walkers have the potential to move over land too rough for vehicles with wheels. Walking robots could help humans explore difficult terrain on Earth, and could someday help astronauts and scientists explore other planets.


Rovers and explorers help humans to gather information in difficult or dangerous situations. The development of a truly intelligent rover could help in such fields as inter-planetary exploration, oceanography, and geology.


Helpers and companions [Section missing]