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A robot is an autonomous machine capable of sensing its environment, carrying out computations to make decisions, and performing actions in the real world.

Three fundamental functions of a robot: Sense, Compute and Act. 

Sense

Function: Robots use sensors to gather information from their surroundings. This can include data from cameras (visual), microphones (auditory), tactile sensors (touch), and other environmental sensors that can detect temperature, proximity, and motion. Sensing allows robots to perceive conditions and environmental changes, which is critical for making informed decisions.

Examples: A robotic vacuum cleaner uses sensors to detect walls and obstacles, avoiding collisions as it cleans. Autonomous vehicles use cameras and LIDAR to perceive road conditions, other vehicles, and pedestrians.

Compute (Think)

Function: This involves processing and analyzing sensory data to make decisions. Robots use onboard computers and algorithms to interpret the data they collect, compare it to their knowledge base or pre-programmed instructions, and determine the best course of action. This process often involves complex computations like pattern recognition, navigation algorithms, and predictive modelling.

Examples: Industrial robots compute the optimal path to assemble parts precisely and efficiently. In healthcare, surgical robots process detailed imaging data to perform precise movements during operations.

Act

Function: Acting refers to the phase where robots execute the decisions made during the compute phase.

Examples: Service Robots: In the service industry, robots like those used in restaurants can perform actions such as delivering food to tables, mixing drinks, or cooking certain dishes. For example, a robotic arm in a modern café might be tasked with making coffee, precisely measuring and handling ingredients and operating coffee machines.

Robotics includes physical robots and software bots(RPA bots and chatbots).

Robots are physical machines designed to perform automated tasks. These can range from simple mechanical devices to complex systems such as industrial robots, Service Robots autonomous vehicles, or humanoid robots.

Robotic Process Automation(RPA) bots are primarily software. They automate processes and tasks, a fundamental principle in robotics. They handle the automation of repetitive tasks, mimicking the actions a human would perform in a digital environment.

Chatbots: Although primarily focused on communication, the underlying technologies of AI and NLP are closely related to the cognitive aspects of robotics. They automate the task of human conversation, which can be seen as an extension of the robot's ability to interact with human users.