Artificial Intelligence

what are AI Robots

Two of the most exciting areas of modern industry are artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics — but what are they, and what happens when they collide? While the field of robotics is more established, AI technology is quickly gaining traction and aims to revolutionize automated machines in unimaginable ways. A new category of so-called “artificially intelligent robots” pairs control-based robotic assemblies with flexible learning AI systems to create a self-improving automaton that rivals our human capabilities. This article will explore what AI robots are, how they work, and present examples of these machines in current and in future industries.

what is Robotics ?

It is important to understand the difference between AI and robotics before discussing their combined applications. Robotics is by far the older field of the two, so we will start with a brief discussion of what robotics is and how it differs from AI. But before continuing with this article, it is recommended that you read about the history of robots and robotics for context.

examples of AI Robots

Below are examples of current AI robot designs, built for a variety of purposes and applications. Note that this section includes some, but not all the available AI robots in the industry. Also note that each of these robots is not truly powered by AI systems, but uses the most current approximation of AI, as true AI is still being researched.

AgilityRobotics

Digit is a humanoid bipedal robot capable of traversing complicated terrain and delivering packages. Digit can carry up to 40 lbs and can climb stairs, catch itself during a fall, and plan footsteps. The onboard control system and robust API allow wireless control of Digit, and its modular processing bay allows for increased CPU capacity to support additional reinforcement learning capabilities. Digit was recently paired with Ford’s autonomous vehicles division to create one of the first fully unmanned package delivery services, where Digit is deployed to walk across lawns and up porch steps to deliver packages without the assistance of humans.

Atlas & Spot

Boston Dynamics, considered the current leader in AI robotics, has developed its Atlas and Spot robots that are by far the most life-like models on this list. Atlas weighs 170+ lbs but can jog, jump, run, somersault, and even backflip using some of the most dynamic hydraulic systems available. Atlas uses advanced control systems and proprietary algorithms to reason through complex environments and can save behaviors, perceive in real-time, and perform model-predictive control to adjust to changes in its surroundings. Spot is Boston Dynamics’ commercial quadrupedal robot that automates inspection, sensing, and data collection in a variety of settings. Its agile frame can carry up to 14 kg and has 360 degrees of perception, dynamic balance systems, and comes with optional modular accessories like cameras and arms to increase functionality. Spot is currently used as a remote monitoring system and site documentation too, but will find uses as more companies deploy it as an autonomous exploration robot.

Stuntronics Robot

Disney’s Imagineers have outdone themselves with the Stuntronics stunt double robot. This advanced robot comes with on-board sensors and dynamic autonomous pose control to perform acrobatic tricks for movies without risking a person’s life. Stuntronics can handle the extreme acceleration and deceleration of flying and is used to perform those quintuple-backward-somersaults-with-tucked-landings found in superhero movies. Stuntronics uses real-time data collection and dynamic movement control to balance in the air during flips, twists, and poses, all with impressive repeatability and no human input. Disney’s goal with Stuntronics is to develop a convincing, yet reliable, AI robot that can replace human stunt doubles, all while increasing the capabilities of moviemakers in what stunts they can pull off.

Sofia

Hanson Robotics is taking a different approach to AI robotics with their Sophia, a robot built to be as human as possible. Considered the world’s first robot citizen and the first robot ambassador, Sophia has been on the Tonight Show, Good Morning Britain, and has even spoken at the UN. The AI inside Sophia is a unique combination of neural networks, machine perception, conversational natural language processing, adaptive motor control, and cognitive architecture that is seldom found together in other AI systems. Sophia can recognize human faces, emotions, and hand gestures to respond appropriately, and has a moving face to express her own emotions while keeping eye contact. Sophia was created to start a conversation about AI and robot ethics, as well as create a human-centric robot that will be necessary for medicine and educational fields. While there is much debate as to whether Sophia is the first instance of rudimentary artificial consciousness, her ability to act human is an invaluable innovation to a world of otherwise cold and silent robots.

Robots