Types of Intelligent Robots

In the big world of technology and innovation, intelligent robots are like amazing superheroes that can move around easily on land, in the air, and in water. Imagine a place where these cool robots, when they go outside, are not just called robots but also have fancy names like unmanned vehicles or unmanned systems. But, even though there are only three ways they can move-on land, in the air, or in water-there are at least seven short forms for these robots. These short forms depend on things like how they move, how big they are, and who uses them.

Let's dive into the world of robots that move on the ground. We can call them either mobile robots or unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). In this realm, UGVs can be grouped into three different categories, each having its own special features. First, we have humanoid or anthropomorphic robots. They remind us of characters from our favorite sci-fi movies and often appear on the silver screen. However, you'll find them mostly in research labs. Examples include the Honda P3, Sony Asimo, and Aldebaran Nao robots – fascinating creations that resemble humans.

Moving on to the nonanthropomorphic mobile robots, like the iRobot Roomba and NASA's Mars Exploratory Rovers, they mark a new era of exploration and functionality. This category extends into the military and public safety realms, giving birth to UGVs of different sizes – from the conveniently portable man-packable to the more imposing man-portable and maxi robots.

Next we have motes – miniature robots with a unique charm. These little wonders, often without the ability to move around much, are lovingly called unattended ground sensors, adding an element of mystery to the world of robots.

Taking our robotic journey to the skies, we explore unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or, as they call them in the United States, unmanned aerial systems (UAS). In this airborne spectacle, three main types of UAVs elegantly take center stage.

First, we have the fixed-wing aircraft, resembling traditional planes. Here, giants like the U.S. Department of Defense Predators and Global Hawks rule the skies, commanding airspace with precision. Then, enter the rotor-craft, gracefully mimicking the flight of helicopters. The Yamaha RMAX, for instance, dances through the air as it dusts crops in the terraced plots of Japan. And let's not forget the smaller joys, like the Parrot AR.Drone, playfully known as toys.

We also have small or micro UAVs (MAV), where size is a captivating factor. Originating from the DARPA Micro Aerial Vehicle program, "micro" now includes any UAV that's easy to pack and carry, echoing the UGV man-packable concept. In this domain, MAVs spread their wings, whether fixed-wing or rotor-craft, enchanting us with their small yet mighty presence.

As our robotic journey descends into the underwater realm, a whole new world of aquatic wonders unfolds. Robots designed to operate on or under the water surface reveal themselves as unmanned marine vehicles, bringing forth two captivating subcategories. First, we have the unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), resembling boats as they gracefully navigate the water's surface. Dive deeper into the aquatic adventure, and the unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) make a grand entrance, showcasing two mesmerizing subcategories.

We also have autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), a graceful navigator of the ocean's depths. These free-swimming and preprogrammed marvels, such as YSI Oceanmapper and REMUS, showcase their expertise in oceanographic research and coastal water-quality sampling. On the flip side, the remotely operated vehicle (ROV), tethered to human control in real-time, embarks on missions to explore offshore oil and gas platforms, inspect bridges, hulls of ships, and inlet/outlet pipes, adding a layer of connectivity to the mesmerizing aquatic symphony.

In the vast landscape of robotics, where ground, air, and water seamlessly come together, each category, every abbreviation, and each robot weaves a tale. It is a narrative of technological brilliance, innovation, and the limitless possibilities that intelligent robots bring to our world.