Abstract This paper examines how bionics is becoming a respectable field of research with a variety of applicable benefits. It looks at how advances in computer technology have enabled engineers to reduce the dimensions of processors and transistors to sizes appropriate for medical applications in two primary venues: bionic therapy and bionic enhancement. This paper briefly explores some of the developments in bionics and the potential outcomes of such research.
From the Paper "Today, researchers work relentlessly to improve the lives of people suffering from countless ailments. From hearing and vision to circulatory system repairs, medical therapy continues to make great leaps in bionics. The twentieth century saw the advent of orthopedic implants, cochlear devices to augment hearing, organ transplants and the development of experimental spinal nerve bridges [Science, 2002]. The "development of cochlear implants (has) given hearing to people, previously deaf, through auditory nerve stimulation" [Maguire, McGee 2]. Vision research begun by Giles Brindley in the 1960's has branched out substantially into areas of retinal simulation through chip implants, direct optic nerve stimulation and even cameras hard wired into the occipital lobe of the brain [Lavine, Roberts, Smith 2]. "
Abstract The paper defines bionics as a cutting-edge joining of biology and electronics. The paper describes how organic structures or functions are replaced with electronic or mechanical ones. The paper demonstrates how bionic prosthetics have emerged in numerous real-world applications and practical examples.
From the Paper "Prosthetic technology has advanced enough in recent years that it can be legitimately referred to as bionics. Bionics can be best thought of as a cutting-edge joining of biology and electronics. Organic structures or functions are replaced or substituted with electronic or mechanical ones (Rockets, 2006). This can be done in order to compensate for a physical deficiency--such as an amputation--or even to augment existing abilities--such as providing enhanced strength. By and large, however, research into the practical applications of bionics has been limited to hospitals and universities where the focus is compensation for physical maladies."
Abstract This paper discusses robotics, a technology that deals with the design, construction and operation of robots that are used in numerous applications. It looks at how these applications range from industries that require accurate and repetitive tasks (such as the car and computer manufacturing industries), dangerous tasks such as diffusing of bombs and other chores that cannot be performed by humans, e.g., carrying out research on far-away planets, or walking inside live volcanoes. It provides a description of what robots are and how they work, the history of robotics, the present applications of robots, the impact of robots in our lives and their limitations as well as the future of robots. It also discusses how close we are in the development of a ?bionic? man.
Outline
Robotics and Robots Defined
Origins of the Word "Robot" and "Robotics"
History of Robotics
How Robots Work?
Applications of Robots
The Future of Robotics
Conclusion
From the Paper "Although robots as we know them today are a relatively recent invention, the idea of automated machine or a mechanical man has fascinated the human mind since the ancient times. For example, the ancient Greek poet Homer in his writings described maidens of gold, who are supposed to be mechanical helpers built by Hephaistos, the Greek god of metalsmiths. Similarly, in ancient Jewish legend, robot-like servants made of clay are brought to life by a spoken charm. (Tesler) In more recent times, Leonardo da Vinci, the "Renaissance man" drew plans for a mechanical man. Eighteenth century watchmakers were also famous for making mechanical, robot-like creatures. (Bekey)"
Abstract This paper examines the causes of various types of blindness such as macular degeneration, river blindness and stargardt disease. It also discusses various ways of overcoming some forms of blindness with treatments such as medication, silicon retinas and bionic eyes.
From the Paper "The most common of all forms of retinitis pigmentosa is a gradual degeneration of the rods and cones, which are known as rod-cone dystrophy, usually beginning with night blindness. Night blindness is like the experience normally sighted individuals encounter when entering a dark movie theatre on a bright and sunny day. Unfortunately, people with the disease cannot adjust well to dark and dimly lit environments. Patients tend to experience a ring of central vision loss in their mid- margin with small islands of vision in their very far margin."
Tags: retina, macular, degeneration, river, stargardt
