Computers in Control
An introduction to the world of robotics
This series examined one important aspect of computing – robotics – in other words how the computer can monitor and control things. Again there was a mix of real world examples – many from America, practical demonstrations and a “hands on” approach to coding.
The BBC robot ‘buggy‘ was marketed for d-I-y enthusiasts. Ian McNaught Davis was again the main presenter.
1. Introducing the Robot
An introduction to the world of robotics. 1: Introducing the Robot: A visit to the Chicago Robotics Exhibition shows how the computer has revolutionised these mechanical servants and even made domestic versions possible. IAN MCNAUGHT-DAVIS begins to look at how computers can sense what’s going on round them and then control mechanical devices. Production DAVID ALLEN and ROBIN MUDGE
2. Making Sense of the Real World
An introduction to the world of robotics. Making Sense of the Real World. How can the computer detect such widely different things as the whereabouts of a London Transport bus, fog, the length of an electronic flash or the speed of a motor? IAN MCNAUGHT -DAVIS and JOHN COLL look at a wide range of sensors which are available on the market. Production DAVID ALLEN and ROBIN MUDGE
3. Making Things Move
An introduction to the world of robotics. 3: Making Things Move: IAN MCNAUGHT-DAVIS continues his exploration of the principles behind the use of the computer in robotics by finding out how to make things move – even using a home micro. Production DAVID ALLEN and ROBIN MUDGE
4. Getting it Together
An introduction to the world of robotics. 4: Getting it Together: IAN MCNAUGHT-DAVIS looks at some of the thinking behind more complex computer-controlled devices. Production DAVID ALLEN and ROBIN MUDGE
5. Recognising the Obvious
An introduction to the world of robotics 5: Recognising the Obvious : We see, hear and interpret the real world with ease. For the computer it’s not so easy, but some robotic systems can identify objects or voices and act accordingly, and it’s possible to mimic these on the home microcomputer. Production DAVID ALLEN and ROBIN MUDGE
