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We've talked before about how the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are intertwined in a lot of ways. But what about the differences between AI and robotics? What is it that truly sets these two disciplines apart?

Below, we'll highlight some differences, as well as discuss some career paths to robotics and how they're both separate and similar to AI career training and education.

How AI and Robotics Are Different

First, let's go over some of the core differences between AI and robotics.

The main difference between AI and robotics is that robots are physical machines that can be programmed to complete tasks, whereas AI does not require a physical machine in order to solve problems. Instead, AI relies on algorithms and coded instructions to learn from data and improve itself.

Another key difference between AI and robotics is that AI tends to focus more on simulating human behavior, while robotics focuses more on physical tasks that robots can complete. For instance, a robotic arm might be programmed to pick up and move an object from one place to another, while AI might be used to automate processes such as predicting stock prices or analyzing text data.

Finally, AI is often seen as more of a research field than robotics, since it requires complex programming and lots of trial-and-error to get an algorithm working properly. Robotics can be taught to complete specific tasks relatively quickly, but AI requires much more effort before results are achieved. While these two sets of skills work in harmony, it is crucial to note the difference between AI and robotics.

Ultimately, both fields rely on each other in order to create the most efficient and effective solutions. AI is used to program robots, while robotics provides a physical platform for AI to be tested on.

AI and Robotics Skillset Crossover

Interestingly, many of the skills required for AI and robotics overlap. In particular, both fields require a combination of coding experience and deep knowledge in mathematics. Much of the information is the same, but the application of this information is a key difference between AI and robotics.

For instance, a programmer who specializes in AI will have to become highly familiar with coding languages such as Python and C++, while also taking courses in calculus, algebra and probability. Similarly, a roboticist will need to become an expert in coding and mathematics as well.

Ultimately, the crossover between these two fields is clear – both AI and robotics require proficiency in programming and mathematics, while also having their own unique domains of expertise. As such, many professionals are able to specialize in both AI and robotics, making use of the crossover skillset to become a more well-rounded and valuable engineer.

How AI Skill Requirements Differ from Robotics

AI skill requirements differ from robotics in a few key ways. In particular, AI requires more of an emphasis on learning algorithms, while robotics tends to focus more on programming physical objects and machines.

Also, the fundamental architectures of AI and robotics are quite different. While AI requires complex algorithms to be written in order to learn from data and make predictions, robotics works by programming physical objects that can then be used set loose in the real world.

Finally, while both fields require deep knowledge of mathematics, AI tends to require more high-level mathematical concepts such as calculus and probability. Robotics, on the other hand, focuses more on linear algebra and geometry as these concepts apply to physical objects. As you’ll notice, once again, there is a lot of knowledge and education which comfortably fits into both sides of this equation, but the differences between AI and robotics are important to note for those involved in robotics and manufacturing.

How to Turn an Education in Artificial Intelligence into a Career in Robotics

For those with an education in AI, a career in robotics can be a great opportunity. In order to make the transition from AI to robotics, there are a few key skills that will need to be developed.

The first is understanding how robots interact with physical objects. This means having a deep knowledge of linear algebra and geometry and understanding how these concepts can be used to program robots.

The second is an understanding of the hardware and sensors that are used on robots. It’s important to understand how the different components work together in order to get a robot moving and completing tasks.

Finally, having knowledge of programming languages is essential for robotics. It’s important to be able to write code that can control robots and help them complete their tasks.

Overall, an education in AI provides a great foundation for a career in robotics. With the right skillset, those with an AI background can easily transition into a role in robotics, where they can combine their AI knowledge with their experience in robotics. Ultimately, this crossover will open up a wealth of opportunities for both fields and lead to even more exciting developments in the world of robotics.

Start Your Robotics Career Journey at RoboticsCareer.org

If you already have training and/or experience in artificial intelligence, then it could be that you only need a little bit of training to start a career in AI-driven robotics. At RoboticsCareer.org, our robotics program search tool was made with people just like you in mind, whether you’re starting from scratch or you’re already knowledgeable. 

To find the perfect education programs for your skillset, simply navigate to the top of the home page and click on Help Me Find Training. From there, you can list your current competencies and filter the robotics programs that are best suited for your path to a career. 

Or, check out the Endorsed programs for a list of programs that have been thoroughly vetted by robotics experts and proven to provide all the necessary and relevant training for the robotics career pathways.