Robots for "Backwater"

[atpollard]

I have a PbP game on Unseen Servant set in a Traveller Universe of MY CREATION built on more of a "Pocket Empires" feel and set at TL 9-12 for the major players. A "Small Ship" universe with more emphasis on patrons and encounters and action IN THE SYSTEM than jumping in a "system of the week" adventure. I discovered TWO great needs in this game at TLs 8-12. Civilian Vehicles and Robots.

So this is just my sharing what I worked out for MY GAME on Robots.

I liked some of the JTAS article and most of Book 8, but I had some issues with the data on WHEELS and TRACKS and GRAV. I think STRIKER did the "VEHICLE" part of the ROBOTS better than Book 8 or JTAS. However, the JTAS captured that LBB2 FEEL for how Classic Traveller works. So the first thing I did was to lump the BOOK 8 robot parts together more LBB2/5 style, starting with the PROGRAMS that defined what a ROBOT could do [skills].

Each BASIC SKILL MODULE (BSM) contains the additional CPU Memory and Programs to provide the ROBOT with the “Education” to perform useful tasks (similar to SKILL-1 for a person). Some Skill Programs require multiple BSM modules. SKILL MODULES are graded /a through /f based on the number of BSMs contained in each module.

/a [One Slot]:
The “/a” MODULE contains one BSM and will run a single “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAM. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require One Slot and will run on a “/a” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 400 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Agriculture, Cargo Handling, Communication/Electronics, Construction, Demolition, Forgery, Gunnery, Janitor, Lab Tech, Mechanical, Recon, Steward, Unarmed Security, Vehicle (2D)

/b [Two Slot]:
The “/b” MODULE contains two BSMs and will run a single “Two Slot” SKILL PROGRAM or two “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAMS. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require Two Slots and will run on a “/b” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 800 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Armed Security, Brawling, Engineering/Gravitics, Medical, Navigation, Pilot, Prospecting, Surveying, Valet, Vehicle (3D)

/c [Three Slot]:
The “/c” MODULE contains three BSMs and will run a single “Three Slot” SKILL PROGRAM or three “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAMS. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require Three Slots and will run on a “/c” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 1200 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Administration, Armored Combat, Gambling, Infantry Combat, Interrogation

/d [Four Slot]:
The “/d” MODULE contains four BSMs and will run a single “Four Slot” SKILL PROGRAM or four “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAMS. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require Four Slots and will run on a “/d” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 1600 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Bribery, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Tactics, Trader

/e [Five Slot]:
The “/e” MODULE contains five BSMs and will run a single “Five Slot” SKILL PROGRAM or five “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAMS. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require Five Slots and will run on a “/e” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 2000 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Legal, Linguistics, Genetics

/f [Six Slot]:
The “/f” MODULE contains six BSMs and will run a single “Six Slot” SKILL PROGRAM or six “One Slot” SKILL PROGRAMS. Each of the following SKILL PROGRAMS require Six Slots and will run on a “/f” ROBOT BRAIN. Each PROGRAM may be purchased on a cassette for Cr 2400 and loaded onto the ROBOT.

• Instruction, Entertainer

 

[atpollard]

Then I created some basic TL 8 ROBOTS using the Book 8 sizes as a guide, STRIKER to create the shell and locomotion in greater detail and flexibility (which grew out of the Vehicle Creation that I was already working on), and then just SIMPLIFIED the options by creating a basic "BRAIN" for TL 8 and a BSM to run a one slot skill [6 BSMs will run a 6 slot skill]. Then I assembled some sample robots from these convenient parts:

TL 8 WHEELED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f (50 liters; 39 kg; Cr 18,200)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [34 liters, Cr 1]. The wheels can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 2 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=5, DEX=8, INT=0.

• Type I-Wheeled Model-0/e (50 liters; 39 kg; Cr 16,200): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Wheeled Model-0/d (50 liters; 38 kg; Cr 14,200): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Wheeled Model-0/c (50 liters; 38 kg; Cr 12,200): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Wheeled Model-0/b (50 liters; 38 kg; Cr 10,200): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Wheeled Model-0/a (50 liters; 37 kg; Cr 8,200): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Wheeled DRONE (50 liters; 44 kg; Cr 1,400): As the “Type I-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f (100 liters; 63 kg; Cr 18,800)​

A basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [45 liters, Cr 2]. The wheels can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 2 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=15, DEX=6, INT=0.

• Type III-Wheeled Model-0/e (100 liters; 63 kg; Cr 16,800): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Wheeled Model-0/d (100 liters; 63 kg; Cr 14,800): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Wheeled Model-0/c (100 liters; 62 kg; Cr 12,800): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Wheeled Model-0/b (100 liters; 62 kg; Cr 10,800): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Wheeled Model-0/a (100 liters; 61 kg; Cr 8,800): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Wheeled DRONE (100 liters; 69 kg; Cr 2,000): As the “Type III-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f (200 liters; 114 kg; Cr 19,600)​

A basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [74 liters, Cr 3]. The wheels can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 2 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=7, INT=0.

• Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/e (200 liters; 114 kg; Cr 17,600): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/d (200 liters; 113 kg; Cr 15,600): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/c (200 liters; 113 kg; Cr 13,600): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/b (200 liters; 113 kg; Cr 11,600): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/a (200 liters; 112 kg; Cr 9,600): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Wheeled DRONE (200 liters; 120 kg; Cr 2,800): As the “Type IV-Wheeled Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

 

[atpollard]

TL 8 TRACKED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Tracked Model-0/f (50 liters; 44 kg; Cr 19,200)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [17 liters, Cr 1]. The tracks can propel it at 41 kph (highway), 28 kph (dirt road), and 8 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=4, DEX=9, INT=0.

• Type I-Tracked Model-0/e (50 liters; 43 kg; Cr 17,200): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Tracked Model-0/d (50 liters; 43 kg; Cr 15,200): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Tracked Model-0/c (50 liters; 43 kg; Cr 13,200): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Tracked Model-0/b (50 liters; 42 kg; Cr 11,200): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Tracked Model-0/a (50 liters; 42 kg; Cr 9,200): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type I-Tracked DRONE (50 liters; 47 kg; Cr 1,400): As the “Type I-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

Type III-Tracked Model-0/f (100 liters; 70 kg; Cr 19,700)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [45 liters, Cr 2]. The tracks can propel it at 41 kph (highway), 28 kph (dirt road), and 8 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=14, DEX=7, INT=0.

• Type III-Tracked Model-0/e (100 liters; 70 kg; Cr 17,700): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Tracked Model-0/d (100 liters; 70 kg; Cr 15,700): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Tracked Model-0/c (100 liters; 69 kg; Cr 13,700): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Tracked Model-0/b (100 liters; 69 kg; Cr 11,700): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Tracked Model-0/a (100 liters; 68 kg; Cr 9,700): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type III-Tracked DRONE (100 liters; 74 kg; Cr 2,000): As the “Type III-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f (200 liters; 126 kg; Cr 20,600)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 8 “Model 0” Logic Module supporting Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [74 liters, Cr 3]. The tracks can propel it at 41 kph (highway), 28 kph (dirt road), and 8 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=38, DEX=8, INT=0.

• Type IV-Tracked Model-0/e (200 liters; 126 kg; Cr 18,600): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/e” (5 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Tracked Model-0/d (200 liters; 125 kg; Cr 16,600): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/d” (4 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Tracked Model-0/c (200 liters; 125 kg; Cr 14,600): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/c” (3 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Tracked Model-0/b (200 liters; 125 kg; Cr 12,600): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/b” (2 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Tracked Model-0/a (200 liters; 124 kg; Cr 10,600): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with a type “/a” (1 Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills].
• Type IV-Tracked DRONE (200 liters; 130 kg; Cr 2,800): As the “Type IV-Tracked Model-0/f”, but with the “Logic Module” and “Skill Module” replaced by a TL 8 “Slave” Remote Control unit. This allows the unit to be remote controlled by a COMPUTER equipped with a “Master” unit [4 kW, 3 kg, Cr 500].

 

[atpollard]

I was "reckoning" that the INT of the ROBOT would be the EFFECTIVE LEVEL of the skill he performed. Thus a TL 8 robot is limited by its Low Data Logic "Brain" to operating at SKILL-0 and would require constant supervision while working.

 

[atpollard]

TL 9 sees "High Data Logic" BRAINS that allow ROBOTS to operate at INT=1 (and IMTU, skill-1).

TL 9 WHEELED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Wheeled Model-1/f (50 liters; 40 kg; Cr 72,600)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [17 liters, Cr 1]. The wheels can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=5, DEX=8, INT=1.

​

Type III-Wheeled Model-1/f (100 liters; 64 kg; Cr 73,100)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [45 liters, Cr 2]. The wheels can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=15, DEX=6, INT=1.

​

Type IV-Wheeled Model-1/f (200 liters; 118 kg; Cr 74,000)​

A basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 36 hours of on board LH2 [111 liters, Cr 4]. The wheels can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=7, INT=1.

​

TL 9 TRACKED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Tracked Model-1/f (50 liters; 32 kg; Cr 72,600)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [17 liters, Cr 1]. The tracks can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 10 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=4, DEX=9, INT=1.

​

Type III-Tracked Model-1/f (100 liters; 53 kg; Cr 73,100)​

A small basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [45 liters, Cr 2]. The tracks can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 10 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=15, DEX=7, INT=1.

​

Type IV-Tracked Model-1/f (200 liters; 102 kg; Cr 74,000)​

A basic ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 36 hours of on board LH2 [111 liters, Cr 4]. The tracks can propel it at 49 kph (highway), 33 kph (dirt road), and 10 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=8, INT=1.

​

TL 9 AIR-CUSHION ROBOTS:​

Type III-Air Cushion Model-1/f (100 liters; 84 kg; Cr 72,800)​

A small hovering ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 17 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [46 liters, Cr 2]. The ducted fans allow it to hover over any terrain at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=2, DEX=10, INT=1 and is capable of carrying a 16 kg payload.

​

Type IVB-Air Cushion Model-1/f (350 liters; 224 kg; Cr 74,000)​

A hovering ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 45 kW Fuel Cell and 16 hours of on board LH2 [166 liters, Cr 6]. The ducted fans allow it to hover over any terrain at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=10, DEX=10, INT=1 and is capable of carrying a 126 kg payload.

​

Type VI-Air Cushion Model-1/f (1000 liters; 594 kg; Cr 76,200)​

A hovering ROBOT equipped with a TL 9 “Model 1” Logic Module supporting High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands must be explicit] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Medium Arms. It is powered by a 120 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [662 liters, Cr 23]. The ducted fans allow it to hover over any terrain at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=10, INT=1 and is capable of carrying a 406 kg payload.

 

[atpollard]

I wanted an improvement at each TL. For TL 10, I noted that a HIGH DATA LOGIC brain could be created with ALL Parallel CPU modules and give a +1 INT boost. I decided to call this an ADVANCED HIGH DATA LOGIC Brain that grants INT=2 (and IMTU, skill-2).

TL 10 WHEELED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Wheeled Model-2/f (50 liters; 33 kg; Cr 120,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [15 liters, Cr 1]. The wheels can propel it at 64 kph (highway), 43 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=5, DEX=8, INT=2.

​

Type III-Wheeled Model-2/f (100 liters; 54 kg; Cr 121,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [41 liters, Cr 1]. The wheels can propel it at 64 kph (highway), 43 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=15, DEX=6, INT=2.

​

Type IV-Wheeled Model-2/f (200 liters; 100 kg; Cr 122,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 36 hours of on board LH2 [101 liters, Cr 4]. The wheels can propel it at 64 kph (highway), 43 kph (dirt road), and 3 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=7, INT=2.

​

TL 10 TRACKED ROBOTS:​

Type I-Tracked Model-2/f (50 liters; 35 kg; Cr 120,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 6 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [15 liters, Cr 1]. The tracks can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 11 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=5, DEX=9, INT=2.

​

Type III-Tracked Model-2/f (100 liters; 59 kg; Cr 121,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 8 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [41 liters, Cr 1]. The tracks can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 11 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=15, DEX=7, INT=2.

​

Type IV-Tracked Model-2/f (200 liters; 110 kg; Cr 122,000)​

A sophisticated ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as one Medium Arm and two Light Arms. It is powered by a 13 kW Fuel Cell and 36 hours of on board LH2 [41 liters, Cr 1]. The tracks can propel it at 56 kph (highway), 38 kph (dirt road), and 11 kph (off-road). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=8, INT=2.

​

TL 10 GRAV-POWERED ROBOTS:​

Type II-Grav Model-1/f (80 liters; 56 kg; Cr 121,000)​

A sophisticated flying ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Very Light Arms. It is powered by a 15 kW Fuel Cell and 12 hours of on board LH2 [38 liters, Cr 1]. The grav module allows it free flight at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=2, DEX=15, INT=2 and is capable of carrying a 24 kg payload.

​

Type IV-Grav Model-1/f (200 liters; 114 kg; Cr 122,000)​

A sophisticated flying ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Light Arms. It is powered by a 31 kW Fuel Cell and 16 hours of on board LH2 [38 liters, Cr 1]. The grav module allows it free flight at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=10, DEX=15, INT=2 and is capable of carrying a 86 kg payload.

​

Type VB-Grav Model-1/f (750 liters; 359 kg; Cr 125,000)​

A sophisticated flying ROBOT equipped with a TL 10 “Model 2” Logic Module supporting Advanced High Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, and learn and gain "experience"; Commands may be less explicit as the Robot is able to “infer meaning from context”.] and Basic Commands [simple, verb-object commands like "get the red book'" or "show the starport data", must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] and a type “/f” (Six Slot) Basic Skill Module [see list of skills]. The ROBOT comes equipped with Basic Sensors and a Voder (enabling it to see, hear and speak) as well as two Medium Arms. It is powered by a 99 kW Fuel Cell and 24 hours of on board LH2 [499 liters, Cr 17]. The grav module allows it free flight at 120 kph (cruising) and 40 kph (NOE). The ROBOT has an effective STR=40, DEX=15, INT=2 and is capable of carrying a 391 kg payload.

 

[casquilho]

The general ideas I see are nice. But I admit, with it being as late as it is here, I will read it again tomorrow so I can absorb it better.

 

[kilemall]

Gotta say, the thing that always bothered me about the CT Robots is how cheap the skill software is. Out of line with both the CT ship model software and the cost of sophont education.

MgT took a good stab at it with the expert programs and the ship computers all being a little more trued up, but I like aligning capabilities to value.

I’m also not sure that I would be on with the hierarchy of skill sophistication.

Don’t forget the robot server option, where there is a brain unit with remote control so it runs a bunch of dumb drones.

As an exercise, I would try building an installed auto driver bot for vehicles and see what self driving features cost.

 

[mike wightman]

I was "reckoning" that the INT of the ROBOT would be the EFFECTIVE LEVEL of the skill he performed. Thus a TL 8 robot is limited by its Low Data Logic "Brain" to operating at SKILL-0 and would require constant supervision while working.

Meanwhile here at TL7 the Ukrainians are using AI enabled drones.
The drone AI has been taught (wonder where the data came from) to fly a complete mission without human supervision...

 

[atpollard]

Meanwhile here at TL7 the Ukrainians are using AI enabled drones.
The drone AI has been taught (wonder where the data came from) to fly a complete mission without human supervision...

Acknowledged, however it raises TWO issues.
1. Do we want to rewrite all of the TRAVELLER core TROPES as technology advances?
2. What is AI? Can I sit down with that Ukrainian drone, as I would sit down with a true AI ROBOT and have a conversation about the way the war was progressing?

To POINT 1:
I personally answer "No." It is therefore a given that the Traveller Framework of Technology progression should take precedence.

To POINT 2:
One could (and I would) make the argument that we are in may ways at the cusp of TL 8. In my progression (and in Book 8) that opens up an INT=0 Low Data Logic [remembers all data taken in by sensors, but cannot analyze or learn; Commands must be explicit] and Limited Basic Commands [a vocabulary of about 100 words, must enunciate carefully; accents cause difficulty] that I equate (IMTU) to "Vehicle-0" skill. One could (and I would) argue that the Ukrainian AI enabled drones are just what my TL 8 robots above describe.

 

[atpollard]

Gotta say, the thing that always bothered me about the CT Robots is how cheap the skill software is. Out of line with both the CT ship model software and the cost of sophont education.

Not sure if I agree or disagree (I never gave it any thought). In a real sense, you PAY THROUGH THE NOSE for the ROBOT "INT".

Using my INT = Skill Level Limit, Here is the cost for the "brain" that can learn the skill (any skill):
TL 8 Low Logic (INT 0 = skill-0) = Cr 5150
TL 9 High Logic (INT 1 = skill-1) = Cr 59,500
TL 10 Advanced High Logic (INT 2 = skill-2) = Cr 107,000

Each Basic Skill Module to RUN the skill costs Cr 2000, and some skills require 6 modules to run (Cr 12,000) ... PER LEVEL OF SKILL!

Then the basic SKILL program costs a mere Cr 400 per BSM for the program cassette.

The cheapest Skill-0 is Cr 7550 (5150+2000+400) and the most expensive Skill-0 is Cr 19,550 (5150+12000+2400).
The cheapest Skill-1 is Cr 61,900 (59500+2000+400) and the most expensive Skill-1 is Cr 73,900 (59500+12000+2400).
The cheapest Skill-2 is Cr 111,800 (107000+4000+800) and the most expensive Skill-2 is Cr 135,800 (107000+24000+4800).

These are just DUMB AS DIRT workers able to do the task with supervision. True AI Robot Brains are going to get a LOT more expensive quickly (but TL 11 is SOTA on the current planet, so I didn't need them in the game yet).

You are correct that those prices are a lot lower than the Starship Programs ... unless the Starship Programs are hardware modules that include a ROBOT Logic, Storage Modules and Program into a plug-able hardware. You are not slotting a PROGRAM on your Starship, but slotting an AI add-on to your mainframe.

 

[atpollard]

I’m also not sure that I would be on with the hierarchy of skill sophistication.

I don't like it either, but it goes back to the JTAS and carried on into Book 8. I just chose not to rewrite the relationships. I did simplify them into groups.

 

[atpollard]

Don’t forget the robot server option, where there is a brain unit with remote control so it runs a bunch of dumb drones.

See TL 8 Wheeled and Tracked DRONES.

It makes less sense to build a MASTER ROBOT when they are so STUPID at TL 8-10, so the MASTER unit would just be connected to a fixed COMPUTER (Like a Model /1 Starship Computer).

 

[mike wightman]

AI here in the real world has taken on a very different meaning to AI in Traveller, although LBB:8 was starting to catch up with machine learning.

The classic sci fi trope is for AI to mean a thinking, learning, self aware, problem solving machine intelligence

Here in the real world AI just means, at its simplest machine learning.

Should Traveller keep up with the real world? Yes.

A ship crew at TL 9 should have smart phone like devices, although they may be worn as a pair of ear buds and contact lenses. Others may prefer to have a tablet like device.

Like much of our current information age technology Traveller missed the mark, the smart phone, anti-social media, machine learning (AI).

I include them because I want Traveller as state of the art, not an alternative history thowback where the point of departure was the 1980s.

So yes, the military can get AI piloted drones at TL7 IMTU - and if I can buy anything on the interwebs then it exists in game.

 

[atpollard]

So yes, the military can get AI piloted drones at TL7 IMTU - and if I can buy anything on the interwebs then it exists in game.

So if the TL 7 AI Drone gets in a Dogfight with a Pilot-3 Human in an F-22 equivalent (or A-10 Thunderbolt II equivalent), what is the PILOT skill of the TL 7 AI Drone?

The JTAS article and Book 8 say the Drone is INT=0 ...
[my point is that you will need to create WHATEVER you decide out of 'whole cloth' because there is nothing in the CT rules to draw from for extrapolation for creating TL 7 AI Drones.]

 

[atpollard]

As an exercise, I would try building an installed auto driver bot for vehicles and see what self driving features cost.

Car or Boat (2D) = TL 8 Skill-0 is +Cr 7550 (5150+2000+400)
Aircraft or Submarine (3D) = TL 8 Skill-0 is +Cr 9950 (5150+4000+800)

Car or Boat (2D) = TL 9 Skill-1 is +Cr 61900 (59500+2000+400)
Aircraft or Submarine (3D) = TL 9 Skill-1 is +Cr 63900 (59500+4000+800)

Now that I finished the ROBOTS, I think I will update the VEHICLES to make at least SKILL-0 self-driving standard at TL 8+.
Manual operation in critical situations, but AUTOPILOT on the Highway/open road.
High End VEHICLES can offer SKILL-1 Autopilot for "door to door" service.

 

[Spinward Flow]

Gotta say, the thing that always bothered me about the CT Robots is how cheap the skill software is. Out of line with both the CT ship model software and the cost of sophont education.

To be fair, LBB2.77 was written and published in the days of punch cards and computers the size of rooms.
LBB8 was written and published in 1986 ... almost a decade later ... after desktop microcomputers had become the norm.
The "cost" of writing software for computers had gone from being something that only specialists could be trusted with to being something that hobbyists did on a daily basis ... meaning that the "costs" of writing software had come down DRAMATICALLY in the real world during those years (1977-1986).

To be even more fair, LBB2 software rules are designed for extremely complex and highly integrated "robots" in the excess of 1,000,000 liters of volume (14,000 liters per ton * 100 tons = 1,400,000 liters). Most of the "robots" that you build with LBB8 are going to be nowhere NEAR that scale (or "rocket surgery" level of compexity). Therefore, it makes sense for LBB2 software to be a lot more expensive, simply because starships need to deal with a much wider variety of contexts and conditions, all of which require redundancies and failsafes ... which causes code bloat and increases programming costs and expenses to get everything debugged and proven SAFE for wide adoption and use.

 

[mike wightman]

So if the TL 7 AI Drone gets in a Dogfight with a Pilot-3 Human in an F-22 equivalent (or A-10 Thunderbolt II equivalent), what is the PILOT skill of the TL 7 AI Drone?

The JTAS article and Book 8 say the Drone is INT=0 ...
[my point is that you will need to create WHATEVER you decide out of 'whole cloth' because there is nothing in the CT rules to draw from for extrapolation for creating TL 7 AI Drones.]

These are ground attack drones.

The current crop of AI controlled F-16s are beating human pilots now. Why do you think they sent F-16s to Ukraine? So they can get real world data to train the AIs, and possibly combat test the drone F-16

No one dogfights anymore - air to air combat consists of firing a missile from 200+ km away, actually make that half a dozen per target. The USAF is considering the B-21 for the air superiority role.

 

[atpollard]

No one dogfights anymore

Let's put this on a BRONZE PLAQUE.
It keeps getting trotted out every "generation" of Aircraft until war proves it wrong.

 

[atpollard]

No AI Drone Wars in Traveller ... it is a game about PLAYERS, not machines.