Robotics generally involves a combination of sensing, actuation,
and computation. Researchers design and analyze machines that
interact with the physical world to accomplish tasks such as
autonomous driving, surveillance, vacuuming, raising crops,
exploring planets, and automating factories. It is important
for students to develop a broad, interdiscplinary background
because many robotic issues are well outside of computer
science. The robotics community is very international and
interdisciplinary. In the US, most robotics researchers work
in engineering departments, such as mechanical, electrical,
and aerospace. Those in computer science departments
usually have a strong interest in algorithmic issues.
There are only a few courses that deal directly with
robotics. CS 443 is an undergraduate-level course
that introduces basic robot kinematics and dynamics,
while surveying other issues. Courses that address
motion planning exist, although most are topics
courses. Check for offerings by Hutchinson, LaValle,
or Bretl.
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