Robots are machines that follow a decision-making process when performing tasks. They are playing an increasing role in manufacturing, agriculture, medicine, mining, and aerospace, as well as in our everyday lives. Readers will learn how robotics engineers find new ways for robots to do work that would be dangerous, time-consuming, dull, or impossible for humans to perform. Real-life examples and a design challenge help students understand key concepts related to the engineering design process, and how robotics engineers play a vital role in expanding our knowledge of the universe.

What is robotics engineering? -- Parts and process -- Systems thinking -- Centuries of ideas -- Modern roboticists -- Problem solving -- Innovative ideas -- A promising solution -- Models and prototypes -- Test and improve -- Share the solution -- Design challenge -- Future of the field.