Intelligent robotics - misconceptions, current trends, and opportunities

Abstract

The concepts of “Robots” have been of interest to humans from historical times, initially with the desire to create “artificial slaves”. Since the technology was not developing to keep up with the “dreams”, initially, Robotics was primarily of entertainment value, relegated to plays, movies, stories, etc. The practical applications started in the late 1950s and the 1960s with the development of programmable devices for factories and assembly lines as flexible automation. However, since the expectations were not adequately realized, the general enthusiasm and funding for Robotics subsided to some extent. With subsequent research, developments, and curricular enhancement in Engineering and Computer Science and the resurgence of Artificial Intelligence, particularly machine learning, Robotics has found numerous practical applications today, in industry, medicine, household, the service sector, and the general society. Important developments and practical strides are being made, particularly in Soft Robotics, Mobile Robotics (Aerial - drones, Underwater, Ground-based - autonomous vehicles in particular), Swarm Robotics, Homecare, Surgery, Assistive Devices, and Active Prosthesis. This perspective paper starts with a brief history of Robotics while indicating some associated myths and unfair expectations. Next, it will outline key developments in the area. In particular, some important practical applications of Intelligent Robotics, as developed by groups worldwide, including the Industrial Automation Laboratory at the University of British Columbia, headed by the author, are indicated. Finally, some misconceptions and shortcomings concerning Intelligent Robotics are pointed out. The main shortcomings concern the mechanical capabilities and the nature of intelligence. The paper concludes by mentioning future trends and key opportunities available in Intelligent Robotics for both developed and developing counties.

Keywords

Robotics / characteristics of intelligence / machine learning / shortcomings of intelligent robotics / technical needs / opportunities in intelligent robotics

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