Professor Gianni: Robotics and AI

1. How do you define AI?

A quick google search will tell you that AI is “intelligence demonstrated by machines” However, I would define AI as a larger interdisciplinary field which delves into the concept of ‘intelligence’ and the creation of it within the fields of technology.

2. Can you name at least three different sub-fields of AI?

Three different subfields of AI that I can name would have to be Machine Learning, Robotics, and Computer Vision.

3. AI has been around since about 70 years so far. Why is it booming right now?

Although AI has been around for about 70 years so far, advancements and developments in computing power in addition to progress in the speed and availability of algorithms and infrastructure is the reason for why it is booming right now.

4. Can you name at least three application sectors where robots are being largely employed? What are the reasons?

While AI is a very broad field that has applications in countless sectors, three prominent application sectors I can name where robots are being largely employed would have to be Agriculture, Military, and Health. From the automation of farming and the creation of unmanned land and aerial vehicles to the presence of robots with regards to surgeries and medical procedures, their involvement in these sectors has led to great strides in innovation and human ingenuity.

5. Can you identify three major challenges for a wheeled autonomous robot performing a 24h surveillance task in a large facility? (e.g., something like Mall of Qatar)

Three major challenges for a wheeled autonomous robot performing a 24h surveillance task in a large facility would have to come down to the cost, the robots ability to overcome physical obstacles and the energy requirements involved with having an autonomous robot functioning for 24 hours.