They are used in mechanical systems and robots when it is required to modify the stiffness/compliance of the joints during the functioning.
In other words... Prince Charles made headlines in 2003 when he raised concerns about nanotechnology and got in a tizz about 'grey goo' - the result of nanoscale (atom-sized) mechanical robots self-replicating uncontrollably and munching the entire biosphere into a robotic ooze.
The P.I.C. Design Corporation (a subsidiary of Benrus) had a display of mechanical robots which was advertising precision-instrument components.
"Human-type robots, these metallic, mechanical robots, are visually very interesting.
Rihanna shared the stage with two larger-than-life mechanical robots, which interacted with her throughout the performance.
Significantly, his three-foot mechanical robot ran on compressed air, which in time would also power his water blasters.
Like Thief, with its steam-powered mechanical robot guards, Arcanum reconfigures the fantasy genre by imagining a past of magic and sorcery clashing with a present distinguished by advanced mechanical technology.
Mr. Bird's "Iron Giant" made adults cry -- but they cried for the mechanical robot, not the boy who was his friend.
A lot of people have a fear of interacting with such a mechanical robot".
Celebrated 1980s Drum Machine Becomes Mechanical Robot.
