Are We Like Robots?
Are we like robots?
Students explore the similarities between how humans move and walk and how robots move, so they come to see the human body as a system from an engineering point-of-view. Students work with LEGO robots in the Associated Activity to replicate the process of movements resulting from decision making (deciding to walk and move) and the implementation of these decisions by communicating them to muscles (human) or motors (robot).
An important aspect of biological engineering and neuroscience is seeing human bodies as functioning, controlled systems, similar to robots. Research findings are showing that mathematical principles similar to those used in robotics are extremely useful or even necessary for a complete understanding of the human body. In the biological engineering and systems neurobiology fields, engineers are engaged in research involving the human body and efforts to replicate the functioning of many of its systems.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Describe the components (bones, muscles, tendons) of the human body that are involved in movement, and their interactions in achieving the objective of movement.
- Describe the corresponding components of a robot involved in moving the robot.
- List the steps involved in a person hearing a sound, then walking towards it.
- List the steps involved for a robot to sense a sound, then move toward it.
- Compare the functions of the components involved in movement in both a human body and a robot.