Page 189 - Modern Robotics Building Versatile Macines

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GLOSSARY

algorithm a set of specified steps that enable a computer or robot
to accomplish a particular task
analog continuously variable (as in the motion of the human body)
rather than moving in discrete steps, as in digital computation,
stepper motor motion, and so on. See also DIGITAL
android a robot that has generally human features (such as a mov-
able head and grasping arms) and that can see and respond to the
environment in humanlike ways. See also CYBORG
anthropomorphism the tendency of people to treat animals or
robots as though they were persons. Humanlike robots often
evoke such responses
articulated geometry the development of robotic arms or legs
that involve segments connected by joints, allowing versatility of
motion
artificial intelligence (AI) the attempt to get computers or
robots to behave in ways that resemble human intelligence.
Examples include vision and image recognition, learning,
problem-solving techniques, and the ability to understand
natural language
artificial life (AL) the effort to simulate living organisms or ecolo-
gies using computer software or robots. Features can include
behaviors (feeding, mating, and so on) as well as genetic inheri-
tance and evolution
Asimo (Advanced Step in Mobility) a humanoid demonstration
robot manufactured by Honda Corporation in Japan
Asimov’s laws conceived by science fiction writer Isaac Asimov,
the three laws were to be built into the structure of a robot’s
brain. They would require that robots prevent harm to humans,
obey humans, and protect themselves—in that order

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