This volume, a condensation of the highly regarded International Encyclopedia of Robotics, serves as an invaluable guide to the rapidly growing field of robotics. None of the articles from the earlier three-volume work has been omitted. Instead, the articles have been shortened and, where necessary, updated to provide a ready-reference tool for professionals seeking to understand and gain from the use of robots and automation. Written by a wide variety of experts, the articles are cross-referenced and include extensive bibliographic information. The articles provide thorough coverage of all of the associated theoretical aspects of robotics as well as most of the present and future applications. Stressing readability, accuracy and ease of use, it gathers in one volume the result of years of knowledge and experience.