The realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a huge role in shaping our future. From robotic guard dogs patrolling the US border to robot cafeteria staff at the Beijing Winter Olympic Games, we’ve still only just started to explore the cosmic possibilities of robots.
Whether you’re a seasoned programmer or you’ve just started getting to grips with coding, you might be curious to know how to incorporate robotics at home. In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of the term and a few tips to help you start getting involved.
Where does robot come from?
For most people, robot summons an image of a machine clad in silver metal, adorned with buttons and flashing lights. The word itself was born in 1920, introduced by Czech playwright Karel ÄŒapek.
Today, robotics forms a booming industry. The modern term refers to engineering technologies for a multitude of functions and purposes, ranging from hobbyist experimentation with AI to the creation of professional humanoids simulating our own biomechanical movement.
What are the different types of robotics?
Farming and agriculture
Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) help farmers across the globe to harvest their crops more effectively. With impressive, cutting-edge technologies, agricultural robots monitor growing stages, clear debris, and harvest crop with delicate precision.
Industrial manufacturing
Various types of robots including automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are deployed on factory floors and in warehouses to accelerate and simplify otherwise laborious manual processes. Used across a wide range of applications, they can expedite welding, transportation, assembly, and much more.
Healthcare
From enhancing patient experience to assisting surgeons in the operating theatre, robots have wide-ranging purposes in a medical setting. They can help to deliver medication, disinfect environments, and offer in-depth imaging analysis.
What do you need to get started?
You don’t have to start everything at once, but we would recommend that you:
Choose a project
Online, you’ll be able to find active communities and content libraries sharing all the latest projects in robotics and AI to try at home. From just a pocket-sized development board like a Beagleboard, the world is your oyster.
Master your coding skills
If you’re reading this, you might already know how to code. However, it won’t hurt to pick up a couple more advanced skills or to deepen your knowledge on machine learning – to really get inside the ‘brain’ of your future robot.
Take an online course
There’s plenty of information out there on the Internet. Discover comprehensive guides and courses if you’d like to get to grips with not just the basics but understanding this exciting, innovative new realm.
Robotics might seem intimidating to start with. However, following just one source could give you enough inspiration to get your feet off the ground.
