From Asimov to Algorithms: Inspiring Innovations in Robotics and AI

In this talk, guest speaker Chris Meyer discusses his fascination with the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence, drawing inspiration from influential figures like Isaac Asimov and Martin Gardner. He shares how Asimov’s writings on robotics, particularly the three laws of robotics, initially piqued his interest in the field.
Additionally, he describes how Gardner's column on mathematical games in Scientific American influenced him, particularly through an article about a game-learning machine that used matchboxes and beads to learn from its mistakes, embodying the principles of reinforcement learning. The speaker elaborates on his experiments with similar models using egg crates and beads to teach machines basic game strategies, expressing his enthusiasm for the potential of simple, innovative approaches to teach machines how to learn and adapt.
Through these personal anecdotes, the speaker highlights the importance of creativity and basic tools in the early exploration of AI and robotics.
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RSSC is an exciting and fun experimental robotics society formed in the late 1970's around the time when many computer clubs where being formed. The need for robotics specific club was met by forming one of the first robotics clubs in the world.
We meet once a month on the second Saturday of the month at California State University Long Beach. Parking is free on the street or paid on the university parking lots.
Our meetings start at 10 AM with classes, special interest groups on different robotics subjects from simple to very complex. At 12:30pm We also have a short business meeting followed by a short break then a competition plus a show and tell of the various projects our members are working on and it ends around 3:30pm.
Anyone interested in robotics and other latest technologies such as 3D printing, maker movement, Artificial Intelligence of any age group and skill level is welcome to come to our meetings! We also have presenters from student projects, Battlebot builders to Mars rover drivers and leaders from the robotics community. Please contact us if you have any questions. We have member experts in virtually all areas of robotics.