A robot combines mechanisms, sensors, computation and control to perform tasks. AI can help with perception, planning or adaptation, while other functions may use fixed control rules.
Reliable robotics also depends on physical limits, energy, maintenance and safety controls. A successful demonstration does not establish dependable operation across changing environments and unusual cases.
ELI5
Robotics is about building machines that can notice things and act in the real world. A useful robot needs both working parts and software that tells those parts what to do.
For example, a delivery robot must recognize where it can travel, move safely and handle changes along the route. A clever route suggestion is not enough if the machine cannot stop safely or finish the trip.
Does every robot use AI?
No. Some robots use fixed programs and feedback controls without learned models.
Why test beyond a demonstration?
Real environments vary and physical actions can have consequences that a short demonstration does not reveal.
