Recent Developments in Robotics

With the availability of low-cost electronics and mechanical parts, robotics gains much popularity in recent years. Games such as the Micromouse competitions, organized by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), have a long history. However, it is not until recent Battlebots competitions that robotics has gained recognition from the general public.

Besides the remotely-controlled and destructive Battlebots, another robo-competition has also gained much popularity recently. This is the mini-Sumo competition. Unlike Battlebots, which require a bit of investment and willingness to take injury risks, mini-Sumo robots are inexpensive and non-destructive.

In the educational toys market, Lego and K-nex both have robot kits that are complete with programmable brains as well as moving parts. While these toys are not cheap, they offer much flexibility and learning value.

There are even ``practical'' robots that vacuum and mow. Although lawn mowing robots are still much in development, carpet vacuuming robots do work and are relatively inexpensive even when compared to standard vacuum cleaners.

It is safe to conclude that robotics is becoming more popular and known to the general public. In fact, some compare today's robotics to computers in the late '70s. This means robotics is likely to boom in the next 10 years, creating business and job opportunities for many.