Robotics: From Concept to Consumer

From thirteenth-century “automatons” to today’s self-driving cars, robots have come a long way—all thanks to humans! This engaging, STEAM-oriented title provides an overview of robotics, its applications, and the people who work in the cutting-edge robotics industry. First, a historical review notes fascinating early creations. The “Digesting Duck,” for example, was a robot that could eat and drink and was built by a French inventor in the 1700s; more modern innovations include Honda’s walking, talking ASIMO in 2000. Next, in-development projects such as a robotic prosthetic arm named after Luke Skywalker provide an exciting glimpse at contemporary and future uses for robots (some may even act as teaching assistants in schools!). The final two chapters explore a variety of robotics careers (e.g. engineers, technicians, and programmers), discuss the schooling needed for such jobs, and take readers on a step-by-step tour of the collaborative process of developing and building a robot. Compelling stand-alone spreads, interspersed throughout, include an interview with a NASA robotics engineer and a look at how robotics led to the development of video-game joysticks. The page design makes effective use of striking photographs and illustrations. Back matter contains sample career statistics, suggestions for further reading, a link to publisher-selected Web resources, a glossary, and an index.