The History of the First Robot

This lecture explores the fascinating history of robots, starting with ancient automatons over 3,000 years ago, such as the Babylonian water clock and the steam-powered flying pigeon created by Architeus. It delves into the Renaissance era with Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical inventions, the golden age of automata in the 18th and 19th centuries, and the transition to robots in the 20th century. The difference between automata and robots is explained, highlighting the evolution from pre-programmed movements to robots that interact with their environment using sensors and actuators. The lecture also discusses the first electric robot, the 'electric dog,' inspired by the natural behavior of moths attracted to light, and its significance in validating scientific theories.