The Definitive Timeline of Robotics History

The History of Robotics: From Da Vinci to Robotic Process Automation

The concept of robots has been around for centuries.

Today, many fields from manufacturing to healthcare use robotics. If you’re thinking about a career in robotics, learning about its history can help you gain a deeper understanding of the field.

At Universal Technical Institute (UTI), we offer Robotics & Automation Technician programs that can be completed in 12-18 months. We teach electrical, mechanical and programming courses that cover valued skills in robotics careers.¹

Keep reading to explore the history of robotics, from Da Vinci’s robotics surgery history and early sketches to the latest advancements in robotic process automation.

What Is the History of Robotics and How Did It Begin?

Robotics defined

Before we look at the timeline, let's define what robotics is. Robotics is a part of engineering that deals with designing, building, operating and using robots. These robots are usually controlled by a computer and can perform a series of complex tasks on their own. They perform tasks in many areas like medical procedures and even household chores.

Early examples of robotics

Robotics has been around since ancient times. Petronius Arbiter, a Roman courtier during the reign of Nero, made a doll that could move like a human being. In 1557, Giovanni Torriani, an engineer and mathematician, created a wooden robot that could pick up the emperor’s bread from the store.

Leonardo Da Vinci made one of the first recorded attempts to design a humanoid robot. He had sketches of a mechanical knight that was capable of sitting, waving its arms and moving its head. At the time, it was a groundbreaking design.

The birth of modern robotics

The modern era of robotics started in the 20th century with the invention of computers and new engineering techniques. During this time, robotics moved from ideas and concepts to real-life uses.

Programmable machines that could do repetitive tasks changed industries like manufacturing. It was also the beginning of robotic process automation. Robotics automation uses programming to have machines perform complex tasks with great accuracy.

Who Is Considered the Father of Robotics and What Was His Contribution to the Field?

Introduction to Isaac Asimov

Isaac Asimov, an author and professor of biochemistry, is known as the father of robotics. Even though he never built any robots, his ideas and writing have greatly influenced the field.

Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics

One of Asimov’s most significant contributions are his Three Laws of Robotics. These laws are designed to ensure that robots operate safely and ethically. The laws are:

1. A robot may not harm a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
2. A robot must obey the orders given by human beings, except in cases where orders conflict with the First Law.
3. A robot must protect its own existence as long as the protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.

Asimov's impact on the field of robotics

Asimov's influence reaches beyond his writings. The Three Laws of Robotics have become foundational principles in robotic ethics and artificial intelligence (AI). They have sparked discussions and research into the best ways to safely integrate robots into society. His works inspired generations of scientists and engineers to explore the possibilities of robotics.

What Is the Timeline of Robotics History and How Has It Evolved?

Major milestones in robotics history

The history of robotics is marked by several key milestones. In 1961, the first industrial robot, the Unimate invented by George Devol, was used in manufacturing. This demonstrated the potential of robots to perform repetitive tasks with high precision.

In the 1970s, Stanford University's Shakey robot became the first mobile robot capable of reasoning about its actions. This development laid the groundwork for autonomous robots and AI.

The evolution of robotics technology

Robotics technology has evolved a lot over the years. Robotic arms were brought to assembly lines in the 1980s, which improved efficiency and safety in manufacturing. The 1990s had advancements in computer vision and machine learning. This enabled robots to perform more complex tasks and adapt to different environments.

Now there is AI integration in robotics. This allows machines to learn from their experiences and improve their performance. This has expanded the use of robotics in fields like healthcare, where robots assist in surgeries and rehabilitation.

The impact of robotics on society

Robotics has had a large impact on society. In manufacturing, robots have increased productivity and reduced the risk of workplace injuries. In healthcare, robotics-assisted surgeries have improved patient outcomes and reduced recovery times. In daily life, robots are becoming more common, from robotic vacuum cleaners to personal assistants like Siri and Alexa.

How Has Da Vinci’s Robotic Surgery Impacted the Medical Field and What Is Its History?

Leonardo Da Vinci's contributions to robotics extend to the medical field. His sketches of mechanical devices have inspired modern surgical robots like the Da Vinci Surgical System. This system allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive surgeries with high precision, reducing the risk of complications and speeding up recovery times.

Who Is George Devol and What Was His Role in Robotics Development?

George Devol is a pioneering figure in the history of robotics. In 1954, he invented the Unimate, the first programmable robot. This invention revolutionized manufacturing by introducing automation to assembly lines.

What Are Some of the Major Milestones in the History of Robotics?

The history of robotics is full of significant milestones. In 1969, the Stanford Arm became the first electrically powered, computer-controlled robot arm. This paved the way for the development of robotic arms used in manufacturing, surgery and space exploration.

In 1997, NASA's Pathfinder mission included the first robotic rover, Sojourner, to explore the surface of Mars. This demonstrated the potential of robotics in space exploration and inspired later missions.

Train To Pursue a Career in Robotics!

Whether you are interested in manufacturing, healthcare, welding or aerospace, a career in robotics can offer exciting opportunities to shape the future.

At UTI, you can get hands-on training using industry-standard equipment! In just 12-18 months, students can complete one of the Robotics & Automation Technician programs and gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue an entry-level position.

If you are ready to start your journey in robotics, request more information and an Admissions Representative will reach out. You can also fill out an application here to get started today!