When Bots learn to think and collaborate, analysis of 15 major Bot systems and application scenarios.

Exploring the classification and practical applications of robotics technology, from industrial robots to swarm robots, and the new machine economy created by the integration of AI and Web3. This article is based on a piece by Heritage.Defi, organized, compiled, and written by PANews. (Background: Musk: SpaceX Starship 'will fly to Mars by the end of next year' carrying the Tesla robot Optimus, with the first crewed landing as early as 2029) (Supplementary background: Musk seeks trainers for the robot Optimus: robotic soldiers will participate in combat in the future, 'shooting with 100% accuracy') Everyone is asking, what can artificial intelligence do? But the real question is, what happens when artificial intelligence has a physical form? The narrative in the field of robotics has finally reached a significant turning point, with capital beginning to pay attention, the related narratives are hotter than ever, and more builders are emerging. However, robotics technology (especially now with the integration of artificial intelligence and Web3) is still in its early stages of development. Before discussing the decentralized robot economy, a fundamental question must be answered: what exactly is a robot? A robot is a programmable machine designed to autonomously or semi-autonomously complete specific tasks. They interact with the environment using sensors, actuators, and control systems, and adapt to different conditions as needed. In short, robots are like smart assistant toys. You tell them what to do, and they remember. They have 'eyes' (called sensors) to observe their surroundings, 'hands and feet' (called movable parts), and a 'brain' to help them decide how best to accomplish tasks such as cleaning, building, or even dancing alone or with your help. Over the years, the development of robotics technology has far surpassed the realm of factory robotic arms. Today, robots come in diverse forms and serve vastly different purposes. Below are the classifications of robotics technology and their practical application cases. Industrial Robots Industrial robots are automated machines used for high-precision, high-repetition work, such as welding, painting, assembly, and material handling. They are designed to operate in manufacturing environments and typically work in conjunction with CNC machine tools, conveyor belts, and automated storage systems. Articulated Robots Articulated robots are multi-jointed robots that resemble human arms and sometimes even surpass human arm capabilities. They can have up to ten rotating joints, providing extreme flexibility to perform complex movements in various directions. These robots are commonly used in the automotive industry for assembly and sorting tasks and can operate in tight spaces. SCARA Robots Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm. They have a unique mechanical structure consisting of two parallel arms connected at a joint at a right angle. This allows SCARA robots to move horizontally, known for their high speed and reliability. SCARA robots are often used in manufacturing and assembly processes, such as pick-and-place operations. Service Robots Service robots work in places like homes, hospitals, and hotels, responsible for various tasks ranging from cleaning floors to delivering packages. They are designed to assist humans and typically operate in a semi-autonomous or fully autonomous manner. These robots focus on practical real-world tasks rather than industrial applications. Some help with housework, some optimize logistics, and some even provide customer service. Examples of service robots: Cleaning robots: The traditional Roomba is an example, capable of navigating autonomously and avoiding obstacles to clean floors. Delivery robots: These robots are used in warehouses, hospitals, and even food delivery services to efficiently transport goods without human intervention. Medical robots: When precision is crucial and human hands are not steady enough, medical robots come into play. These robots truly have the potential to change lives. Exploration Robots Designed for extreme environments, exploration robots help scientists and engineers study places that are too dangerous or distant for humans. These robots must work in harsh conditions while collecting data that is crucial for research and technological advancement. Examples of exploration robots: Mars rovers: NASA's 'Perseverance' and 'Curiosity' traverse the surface of Mars, analyzing soil and searching for signs of past life. Deep-sea submersibles: Alvin and Triton submersibles dive into the deep sea to discover species and shipwrecks at depths unreachable by divers. Humanoid Robots Some robots not only perform human tasks but also closely resemble humans. Humanoid robots mimic human movements, expressions, and even speech, making them useful in customer service, research, and companionship. These robots are designed to have a human-like shape, with arms, legs, and sometimes even strange facial expressions. They are typically equipped with artificial intelligence, capable of understanding language, recognizing emotions, and interacting naturally with people. Examples of humanoid robots: ASIMO: A bipedal robot that can walk, run, and even serve drinks. Atlas: A parkour robot developed by Boston Dynamics, whose movement resembles that of a superhero rather than an ordinary machine. Educational Robots Some robots can build cars, while others can build minds. Educational robots make STEM subjects (note: the English acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) more engaging by allowing students to experience programming, engineering, and artificial intelligence firsthand. These robots are designed for classrooms and research labs, teaching programming, robotics, and problem-solving skills in an interactive manner. They help students understand complex concepts while having fun. Examples of educational robots: LEGO Mindstorms: A robot kit suitable for beginners, allowing students to build and program their own robots. NAO robot: A humanoid robot used in classrooms worldwide to teach programming, artificial intelligence, and even human-robot interaction. Companion Robots Not all robots are designed for work; some are designed for companionship. Companion robots provide emotional support, entertainment, and even therapy, playing an important role in elderly care, mental health, and everyday interactions. These robots are designed for social or therapeutic interaction with humans. They are equipped with artificial intelligence, facial recognition technology, and sometimes have soft exteriors like pets, making them more appealing. Examples of companion robots: Paro: A robotic baby seal that helps alleviate stress in hospitals and nursing homes. Lovot: A small, hug-able robot designed to establish an emotional connection with its owner. Autonomous Mobile Robots Self-driving cars are no longer a distant dream; they are now navigating roads, moving between warehouses, and even delivering goods. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) utilize AI, cameras, and sensors for unmanned driving, becoming significant players in transportation, logistics, and industrial fields. These vehicles can perceive their surroundings and make driving decisions autonomously without human control. They rely on lidar, GPS, and real-time data processing to respond to their environment. Examples of autonomous vehicles: Self-driving cars: Companies like Tesla and Waymo are pushing for the application of fully autonomous vehicles on public roads. Self-driving drones: Used for monitoring, delivery, and even in agriculture. Automated forklifts: Used in warehouses to move goods with extreme precision. Collaborative Robots Collaborative robots are capable of working safely alongside humans to handle repetitive tasks, allowing humans to refocus on higher-level activities. Unlike traditional industrial robots that require safety cages, collaborative robots are equipped with sensors and force-limiting features to prevent serious accidents. Collaborative robots can share workspace with humans, providing collaboration in manufacturing, assembly, and even healthcare.