As we see the technological world advance, we see a rise in the world of robotics. This branch of technology is the intersection of science, engineering, and the production of machines, called robots, that substitute or replicate human actions. Today, we’re seeing an evolved and expanded definition of robotics that includes the development, creation, and use of robots that explore the Earth’s conditions, assist in enforcing the law, and healthcare. All of these robots possess similar characteristics that they need in order to function.
These characteristics all consist of some sort of mechanical construction. The mechanical aspect of the robot allows it to complete tasks for whatever environment it has been designed for. They also need electrical components that control and power the machine. This is because an electric current is needed to power most robots. Robots also contain some level of programming or code; inserting a program into the robot is what gives it the ability to follow orders and complete tasks.
Robots, as we recognize them today, were first invented by a British neurologist, Grey Walter, in the 1940s. His robots looked like tortoises and he named them Elmer and Elsie which stands for ELectro MEchanical Robots, Light Sensitive. These autonomous robots were attracted to light and charged themselves automatically when their batteries were low. Another famous person that contributed to the technology was biochemist, Isaac Asimov. He proposed the 3 main laws of robotics which are the following:
The first law of robotics states that a robot may not injure a human being, or allow a human being to come to harm. The second law states that if the robot is not following the first law they must obey the orders that are given to it by humans . The last law states that a robot must protect its existence as long as it doesn't go against the first or second law. These laws are now updated as a lot of robots would fail to abide by them. Today, experts in AI, ethics, and morals help provide guidelines for the creation and usage of robots.
A lot of people believe that robots will take over jobs and the economy in the next few decades. This is because robots can work day and night, and they don’t have conflicts and don't raise havoc in the workplace. The implementation of robots in the workplace can bring negative and positive side effects.
One of the main negative side effects of implementing the usage of robots is the risk of an increase in the rates of unemployment. This is because employers and manufacturers benefit from the usage of a machine that could learn algorithms which is helpful for the sake of increased productivity. Some of the main jobs that robots could potentially take over are working on the assembly line, software testing, creating financial reports, and compiling documents based on data.
The main positive impact would be the creation of new jobs. The purpose of implementing machines in the workplace is not to get rid of jobs, but to make them more efficient. We might see an increase in new jobs as new skills will be required. This is essential because we know machines can't work and function by themselves. Humans are needed to develop software for machines, maintain and fix equipment, or make decisions based on the data generated by intelligent technologies.
Currently, the most popular company that works with robots is called Boston Dynamics. One of the company’s most popular projects was to create interactive 3D computer simulations to be used to replace naval training videos for aircraft launch operations. In 2017, Boston Dynamics was sold to Japanese tech giant SoftBank, and in the same year of the new acquisition, they started developing a robot called the SpotMini; a very compact, four-legged, and headless robot which was capable of smooth and complex movements. This will be the first robot the company will be commercializing.
Robotics has been one of the branches of technology that people are most fascinated by and continue to be. The development of our world continues to allow us to change our lifestyles positively. Robots are a huge part of our future, and how our world is going to operate. However, we should not forget that although these machines are useful, they will never replace humans.
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