Reading up books: An overview of robotics engineering: A comprehensive review of the technology behind robotic systems is followed by a discussion of selected texts and periodicals

Man, throughout history, has built mechanisms that imitated animals, men, or were made in the image of a powerful god. These mechanisms — operated by steam, hydraulics, air, and springs — can be considered robots by some definitions. Throughout the years, technological change has affected the concept of robots and created a whole new science of robotics. Robots are now taking the next step — a giant step — in becoming an intelligent aid to man.