What is a robot?
A robot is a programmable machine that can perform actions in the physical world. Some robots act autonomously; others are controlled by people.
Meet some real-world examples
Robots come in many shapes and sizes. Explore these photos and notice the difference between a robot and a device used to control one.
This wheeled robot has a sensor at the front that can measure the distance to nearby objects.
A flying machine with four propellers. Depending on its electronics and programming, it may be remotely controlled or fly autonomously.
Another example of a flying robotic platform, showing how robots can take different shapes.
A human-operated transmitter used to control a vehicle or drone. The controller itself is not a robot.
Think about it
Robotics brings together science, engineering and logical problem-solving. Try to explain the idea in your own words before moving on.
Think of a robotic vacuum cleaner. What does it need to detect before changing direction?