Hands-on Introduction to AI Robots: with ROS 2 and Python - Kosei Demura

This book offers a hands-on, beginner-friendly introduction to building intelligent service robots using ROS 2 and Python. From foundational concepts to practical implementations, readers will learn how to build robots capable of understanding voice commands, navigating indoor environments, recognizing and manipulating objects, and interacting naturally with humans. Technologies such as voice recognition, computer vision, navigation, manipulation, and task planning are explained through clear diagrams and sample code. Readers will also learn how to integrate these technologies into full robotic systems using the ROS 2 middleware and the Python programming language—both of which are essential skills for today’s robotics engineers.

To support effective and engaging learning, the book includes mission-based challenges, mini knowledge tips, quizzes, and small projects in each chapter. A pre-configured Docker-based development environment and a GitHub repository with sample programs are provided, enabling readers to get started quickly and focus on building working AI robots.

This book is ideal for university students, educators, developers, and anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of AI robotics through practical experience. By building real-world robot systems, readers will not only gain technical knowledge but also deepen their understanding of the future relationship between humans and intelligent robots.