In robotics, what term is used for a device that detects changes in the environment?

The term used for a device that detects changes in the environment is "sensor." Sensors play a crucial role in robotics by gathering data about various aspects of the surroundings, such as temperature, light, motion, pressure, and sound. This information is essential for the robot to respond appropriately to its environment and to perform tasks effectively.

Sensors convert physical quantities into signals that can be understood by the robot's processing units. For example, an infrared sensor can detect obstacles in a robot's path, while a temperature sensor can indicate changes in heat that the robot may need to react to. By collecting data from the environment, sensors enable robots to make informed decisions and adjust their actions in real time.

On the other hand, transducers refer to devices that convert one form of energy into another and can encompass both sensors and actuators, but they do not specifically refer to the detection of environmental changes. Actuators are components responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or system, responding to signals but not directly sensing the environment. Controllers are systems that process the information from sensors and send commands to actuators. Thus, "sensor" is the most precise term for the context of detecting environmental changes.