Artificial ethology is a new field of research that explores the ways that we can use robots and robotics to enhance our understanding of how real animals behave. Modelling and computer simulations combined with empirical research are the traditional tools of animal behaviour. This text sets out to show how experimentation with animal-like robots can add a new dimension to our understanding of behavioural questions. Introductory chapters explain the history of the use of models in animal behaviour, and describe how animal-like mobile robots "evolved" during the development of the discipline. Then thematic chapters scrutinize sensory processes and orientation, motor co-ordination, and motivation and learning in turn. Each thematic exploration is exemplified by a series of case studies, written by some of the leading researchers in artificial ethology. From robotic lobsters to robot crickets and robot "sheepdogs", each of these case studies give a detailed description of a particular problem, research approach, and robot application.
- ISBN10 0198504969
- ISBN13 9780198504962
- Publish Date 1 July 2001 (first published 31 May 2001)
- Publish Status Cancelled
- Out of Print 21 July 2008
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Oxford University Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 208
- Language English