What

1
Whats the next logical step in creating
intelligent, autonomous robotic devices?

• A Senior Exhibition Project by Simon Drandoff.

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This presentation will include

• Introduction to Digital Robotics.
• Kinds of Digital Robots.
• Strengths and weaknesses of digital robotics.
• The Complexity Barrier.
• Introduction to Biomorphic robotics.
• Strengths and weaknesses of Biomorphic robotics.
• Introduction to Dr. Tildens BEAM robotics.
• Introduction to the Robosapien.

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Digital Robotics
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Introduction to Digital Robotics

• Programmed with If/Then statements, providing
  criteria and appropriate, pre-set behavior for
  each situation.
• Sometimes lacks any sensory input, just following
  pre-set instructions.
• Examples QRio (Sony), Asimo (Honda)

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Kinds of Digital Robots

• Entertainment (example Sony Aibo or QRio)
• Industrial (example painting and welding arms)
• Special-Effects (example Jurrasic Park
  Dinosaurs)
• Research-based (example Mars Rover, Honda
  Humanoid)

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Digital Robotics

• Strengths
• Precise, controllable movements.
• If/Then statements dictate exact behavior.
• Can repeat same task over and over.

• Weaknesses
• Can only deal with predicted events.
• Less scalable technology.
• Requires massive computing power for simple
  tasks.
• Usually not self-contained. (separate computer)
• Cannot function if damaged.
• Not suited to natural environment.

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The Complexity Barrier

• Computing power exponential to complexity in
  digital robotics.
• Digital robots must be programmed by people.
• Digital programming takes thousands of lines of
  code.

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Biomorphic Robotics
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Introduction to Biomorphic Robotics

• Uses no programming.
• Mimics organic life.
• Actions dictated by physical design.
• High survivability.
• Produces own energy.
• Motors are their own measure.

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Biomorphic Robotics

• Strengths
• Adaptable behavior to fit situation.
• Energy efficient.
• Durable.
• Renewable power source.
• Adaptable to damage.
• Protects self.
• Can survive outside laboratory environment.

• Weaknesses
• Random behavior.
• Not as taskable.
• Inexact movements.
• Not suited to factory environment.
• Reflexive.

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Dr. Tildens BEAM Robotics

• What it means Biology, Electronics, Aesthetics,
  Mechanics.
• Design philosophy Simplest possible design to
  perform a specific task. (No unessential
  features).
• Little or no actual processing power necessary.
• All functions performed automatically by design.
• Motors are their own measure. (Power usage
  determines how much the motor has moved).

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The Robosapien
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Wow Wee Toys Robosapien

• Uses Biomorphic technology.
• Designed by Dr. Tilden himself.
• 50 power efficient.
• 84 programmable steps.
• Tactile (touch) sensors.
• Humanoid form.
• Unique balance system.