Encyclopedia Of Robotics

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The Encyclopedia of Robotics addresses the existing need for an easily accessible yet authoritative and granular knowledge resource in robotic science and engineering. The encyclopedia is a work that comprehensively explains the scientific, application-based, interactive and socio-ethical parameters of robotics. It is the first work that explains at the concept and fact level the state of the field of robotics and its future directions. The encyclopedia is a complement to Springer’s highly successful Handbook of Robotics that has analyzed the state of robotics through the medium of descriptive essays. Organized in an A-Z format for quick and easy understanding of both the basic and advanced topics across a broad spectrum of areas in a self-contained form. The entries in this Encyclopedia will be a comprehensive description of terms used in robotics science and technology. Each term, when useful, is described concisely with online illustrations and enhanced user interactivity (on SpringerReference.com).

This volume, a condensation of the highly regarded International Encyclopedia of Robotics, serves as an invaluable guide to the rapidly growing field of robotics. None of the articles from the earlier three-volume work has been omitted. Instead, the articles have been shortened and, where necessary, updated to provide a ready-reference tool for professionals seeking to understand and gain from the use of robots and automation. Written by a wide variety of experts, the articles are cross-referenced and include extensive bibliographic information. The articles provide thorough coverage of all of the associated theoretical aspects of robotics as well as most of the present and future applications. Stressing readability, accuracy and ease of use, it gathers in one volume the result of years of knowledge and experience.

Famous Robots and Cyborgs is a high-octane voyage through the history of our metallic friends and foes. Dan Roberts narrates the history, strengths, weaknesses, quirks, and foibles of a plethora of fictional robots, cyborgs, and mechanical races—taking in the pronouncements of sci-fi visionaries and eminent robotics scientists along the way. Roberts guides us through the evolution of the deadly Cylons of Battlestar Gallactica in its various forms to movie classics like the mysterious Gort of The Day the Earth Stood Still, the iconic C-3PO, and of course the Terminator. We encounter crazed cybernetic killers, megalomaniac computers, living spaceships, beautiful androids, human brains in metal bodies, and ultracompetitive robot gladiators. Along the way, find answers to such questions as: Are robots capable of love? Which were the least convincing and most laughable movie robots of all time? Can robots harm humans to save themselves? And can you really destroy a deadly cyborg assassin with the force of an exploding oil tanker? Famous Robots and Cyborgs is a joyful, eclectic, informative, celebratory journey through the hi-tech world of the mechanical man (and woman). Packed full of trivia, robo-facts, controversy, history, and information on robot toys, games, films, TV, and books, it will delight the dedicated robot aficionado and the interested newcomer alike.

Presents more than 500 terms, concepts, and important people and corporations in AI and robotics

Ideal for hobbyists, students, and experimenters, this first-of-its-kind encyclopedia offers an introductory overview of robotics and artificial intelligence. It contains 500 alphabetically arranged, densely-illustrated articles; extensive cross-referencing; and a comprehensive bibliography to help readers locate additional information.