A robot is an electro-mechanical device intelligent agents that can perform preprogrammed tasks. They are programmable, self-controlled device consisting of electronic, electrical or mechanical units. A robot is a machine that works in the place of humans. The word robot was invented in the 20th century from the Czechoslovakian word ‘robota’ which means “forced labor” or “slave”. The branch of technology that deals with designing, construction, operations and application of robots is known as robotics.

They serve many practical purposes be it commercially, domestically or militarily. Robots can explore at places that are too risky for humans such as volcanoes, gas tanks or planets like Mars. They can operate in any condition be it to vacuum, atomic labs and in radioactive rays. They complete the task that is fed in them as they never get attracted or bored.

Early robots were connected with mechanical linkages and steel cables, pushbuttons, switches or joysticks. But current robots have advanced sensory systems that process information and appear to function as if they have brains. Their “brain” is a form of computerized artificial intelligence. Robots are made of 3 parts- the CONTROLLER or the “brain” that form computerized artificial intelligence, the MECHANICAL PARTS that make the robot work and the SENSORS that tell them about their surroundings.

Robots are quite helpful in the manufacturing industry, space exploration, the military, and medical applications. Robots do jobs that are difficult, dangerous or dull and don’t get tired. They perform the same job hour after hour, day after day and don’t make errors.

SCOOBA is a new robotic mop, scuttles around the floor-sweeping, washing, and drying using sensors, and using software to avoid obstacles. Its shape enables it to turn in tight corners.