Coming soon
FR - Francais
IT - Italiano
ES - Espaniol
PL - Polski
CZ - Czech
ZH - 中文
KO - 한국어
New Robot Naming Convention
The Origin of Robots:
Science Fiction and Dystopia
The term "robot" was coined over 100 years ago, in 1920, through the play "R.U.R. – Rossum's Universal Robots" by Karel Čapek. This play was not only groundbreaking for science fiction literature but also presented a dystopian vision of humanity's future and our relationship with artificial beings.
The term "robot" derives from the Czech word "robota," meaning "forced labor" or "corvée," and is related to the German word "Arbeit" (work). This etymological origin makes it clear: robots are machines that perform work.
The general term "robot" is today both too imprecise and too loaded to fully and neutrally describe the modern diversity, complexity, and potential of these machines. While it remains central in everyday and professional discourse for now, it is increasingly being specified and flanked by new terms that better reflect societal and technological change.
This term becomes particularly problematic with "humanoid robots," where the human-like design makes it more difficult to distinguish between technical reality and science fiction-inspired, often dystopian connotations than with other robot types. More precise classification and differentiated communication become increasingly important with further technological progress.
As a company focused on robotics applications, we rely on function-oriented terminology that creates clarity, enables rational discussions, and promotes clear language.
Systematic Term Development:
Starting point: Classification by Purpose
Step 1: Single Purpose Robot, Multi Purpose Robot, General Purpose Robot, Super Purpose Robot
Step 2: Shortening "Robot" to "Bot" for easier usage
Step 3: Elimination of redundant repetition of "Purpose"
Step 4: Consolidation to SingleBot, MultiBot, GeneralBot, SuperBot
The Four Categories in Detail
Category 1: SingleBot (Single Purpose Robot)
A machine for a specific work purpose.
Definition: Robots developed for a clearly defined work purpose.
Characteristic: All functions serve a single overarching purpose. A cleaning robot can vacuum, mop, and sweep – but everything serves one purpose: cleaning.
Examples:
-
Welding robots (Purpose: Welding)
-
Vacuum cleaner robots (Purpose: Cleaning)
-
Surveillance robots (Purpose: Security)
-
AGVs, AMRs, Drones (Transport robots)
Important: The number of functions is irrelevant – what matters is purpose unity.
Category 2: MultiBot (Multi Purpose Robot)
A machine for various work purposes
Definition: Robots that can fulfill multiple, distinct work purposes.
Reality Check: MultiBots are often associated with humanoid robots today due to their popularity, but this is just one possible form factor. The humanoid form is a functional design decision for certain work environments, not the defining characteristic of a MultiBot.
Examples:
-
Tesla Optimus (humanoid): Assembly + Logistics + Quality Control
-
Boston Dynamics Spot (zoomorphic): Inspection + Transport + Surveillance
-
Modular Industrial Robot (functional): Welding + Assembly + Quality Testing
-
Care Robot: Medical Care + Mobility + Hygiene
Key Insight: Form (humanoid/zoomorphic/functional) is independent of purpose scope (Single/Multi/General/Super).
Category 3: GeneralBot (General Purpose Robot)
The universal work machine.
Definition: Robots with general cognitive and motor abilities that can independently learn new, non-programmed work purposes.
Development Goal: The "General Purpose Robot" is the recognized goal of robotics research for universally deployable systems.
Characteristic: Can independently develop completely new purposes, not just process predefined tasks.
Status: Still in development – true GeneralBots are years away.
Category 4: SuperBot (Super Purpose Robot)
The specialized machine for extreme situations
Definition: GeneralBot with enhanced capabilities for special requirements.
Characteristic: Combines the universality of a GeneralBot with specialized capabilities for extreme environments or requirements.
Examples (Future Vision):
-
Rescue robots for disaster areas
-
Space exploration robots
-
Deep-sea robots for research missions
-
Heavy-duty work robots
Status: Conceivable as MultiBot for limited applications
Why This Systematic Derivation Works
1. Based on Established Terminology
The classification uses the professionally recognized term "General Purpose Robot" as a reference point and develops logical derivations from it.
2. Creates Realistic Expectations
Instead of saying "XYZ builds humanoid robots" (which awakens science fiction expectations), we can precisely say: "XYZ develops humanoid MultiBots for industrial tasks."
3. Focuses on Utility
The classification directs attention to what the robot can do, not how it looks.
4. Enables Gradual Acceptance
The transition from SingleBot via MultiBot and finally from GeneralBot to SuperBot appears as natural technological development, not a leap into the unknown.
5. Technology-Neutral and Future-Proof
The classification works independently of the AI technology used and remains valid even with technological breakthroughs.
End of Conceptual Confusion
Old Confusion: "Humanoid robots will take away all our jobs"
New Clarity: "MultiBots support specific work purposes"
Old Confusion: "Robots are almost like humans"
New Clarity: "GeneralBots are still years away – current systems are MultiBots"
Old Confusion: "All robots are equally dangerous/useful"
New Clarity: "SingleBots for special tasks, MultiBots for various purposes"