Robotics | Introduction

Robotics is a branch of engineering and science that includes electronics engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science and so on. This branch deals with the design, construction, use to control robots, sensory feedback and information processing. These are some technologies which will replace humans and human activities in coming years. These robots are designed to be used for any purpose but these are using in sensitive environments like bomb detection, deactivation of various bombs etc. Robots can take any form but many of them have given the human appearance. The robots which have taken the form of human appearance may likely to have the walk like humans, speech, cognition and most importantly all the things a human can do. Most of the robots of today are inspired by nature and are known as bio-inspired robots. Robotics is that branch of engineering that deals with conception, design, operation, and manufacturing of robots. There was an author named Issac Asimov, he said that he was the first person to give robotics name in a short story composed in &#;s. In that story, Issac suggested three principles about how to guide these types of robotic machines. Later on, these three principles were given the name of Issac&#;s three laws of Robotics. These three laws state that:

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• Robots will never harm human beings.
• Robots will follow instructions given by humans with breaking law one.
• Robots will protect themselves without breaking other rules.

Characteristics

There are some characteristics of robots given below:

• Appearance: Robots have a physical body. They are held by the structure of their body and are moved by their mechanical parts. Without appearance, robots will be just a software program.
• Brain: Another name of brain in robots is On-board control unit. Using this robot receive information and sends commands as output. With this control unit robot knows what to do else it&#;ll be just a remote-controlled machine.
• Sensors: The use of these sensors in robots is to gather info from the outside world and send it to Brain. Basically, these sensors have circuits in them that produces the voltage in them.
• Actuators: The robots move and the parts with the help of these robots move is called Actuators. Some examples of actuators are motors, pumps, and compressor etc. The brain tells these actuators when and how to respond or move.
• Program: Robots only works or responds to the instructions which are provided to them in the form of a program. These programs only tell the brain when to perform which operation like when to move, produce sounds etc. These programs only tell the robot how to use sensors data to make decisions.
• Behaviour: Robots behavior is decided by the program which has been built for it. Once the robot starts making the movement, one can easily tell which kind of program is being installed inside the robot.

Types of Robots

These are the some types of robots given below:

• Articulated: The feature of this robot is its rotary joints and range of these are from 2 to 10 or more joints. The arm is connected to the rotary joint and each joint is known as the axis which provides a range of movements.
• Cartesian: These are also known as gantry robots. These have three joints which use the Cartesian coordinate system i.e x, y, z. These robots are provided with attached wrists to provide rotatory motion.
• Cylindrical: These types of robots have at least one rotatory joints and one prismatic joint which are used to connect the links. The use of rotatory joints is to rotate along the axis and prismatic joint used to provide linear motion.
• Polar: These are also known as spherical robots. The arm is connected to base with a twisting joint and have a combination of 2 rotatory joint and one linear joint.
• Scara: These robots are mainly used in assembly applications. Its arm is in cylindrical in design. It has two parallel joints which are used to provide compliance in one selected plane.
• Delta: The structure of these robots are like spider-shaped. They are built by joint parallelograms that are connected to the common base. The parallelogram moves in a dome-shaped work area. These are mainly used in food and electrical industries.

Scope and limitations of robots: The advance version of machines are robots which are used to do advanced tasks and are programmed to make decisions on their own. When a robot is designed the most important thing to be kept in mind is that What the function is to be performed and what are the limitations of the robot. Each robot has a basic level of complexity and each of the levels has the scope which limits the functions that are to be performed. For general basic robots, their complexity is decided by the number of limbs, actuators and the sensors that are used while for advanced robots the complexity is decided by the number of microprocessors and microcontroller used. As increasing any component in the robot, it is increasing the scope of the robot and with every joint added, the degree of the robot is enhanced. Advantages: The advantages of using robots are given below:

• They can get information that a human can&#;t get.
• They can perform tasks without any mistakes and very efficiently and fast.
• Maximum robots are automatic, so they can perform different tasks without needing human interaction.
• Robots are used in different factories to produce items like plane, car parts etc.
• They can be used for mining purposes and can be sent to earth&#;s madrid.

Disadvantages: The disadvantages of using robots are given below:

• They need the power supply to keep going. People working in factories may lose their jobs as robots can replace them.
• They need high maintenance to keep them working all day long. And the cost of maintaining the robots can be expensive.
• They can store huge amount of data but they are not as efficient as our human brains.
• As we know that robots work on the program that has been installed in them. So other than the program installed, robots can&#;t do anything different.
• The most important disadvantage is that if the program of robots comes in wrong hands they can cause the huge amount of destruction.

Applications: Different types of robots can performs different types of tasks. For example, many of the robots are made for assembly work which means that they are not relevant for any other work and these types of robots are called Assembly Robots. Similarly, for seam welding many suppliers provide robots with their welding materials and these types of robots are known as Welding Robots. While on the other hand many robots are designed for heavy-duty work and are known as Heavy Duty Robots. There are some applications given below:

• Caterpillar plans which is aiming to develop remote-controlled machines and are expecting to develop heavy robots by .
• A robot can also do Herding task.
• Robots are increasingly been used more than humans in manufacturing while in auto-industry there are more than half of the labors are &#;Robots&#;.
• Many of the robots are used as Military Robots.
• Robots have been used in cleaning up of areas like toxic waste or industrial wastes etc.
• Agricultural robots.
• Household robots.
• Domestic robots.
• Nano robots.
• Swarm robots.

Advantages:

1. Increased Efficiency: Robots can work 24/7 without getting tired, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
2. Improved Accuracy: Robots are capable of performing tasks with high precision and accuracy, reducing errors and improving quality.
3. Increased Safety: Robots can perform tasks that are dangerous for humans, improving overall safety in the workplace.
4. Reduced Labor Costs: The use of robots can lead to reduced labor costs, as robots can perform tasks more cheaply than human workers.

Disadvantages:

1. Initial Cost: Implementing and maintaining a robotics system can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized businesses.
2. Job Losses: The increased use of robots may result in job losses for human workers, particularly in industries where manual labor is prevalent.
3. Limited Capabilities: Robots are still limited in their capabilities compared to human workers and may not be able to perform tasks requiring dexterity or creativity.
4. Maintenance Costs: Robots require regular maintenance and repair, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

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Robotics: What It Is, How It Works

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What Is Robotics?

Robotics is the intersection of science, engineering and technology that produces machines, called robots, that replicate or substitute for human actions. Robots perform basic and repetitive tasks with greater efficiency and accuracy than humans, making them ideal for industries like manufacturing. However, the introduction of artificial intelligence in robotics has given robots the ability to handle increasingly complex situations in various industries.

 

What Is a Robot?

A robot is a programmable machine that can complete a task, while the term robotics describes the field of study focused on developing robots and automation. Each robot has a different level of autonomy. These levels range from human-controlled bots that carry out tasks to fully-autonomous bots that perform tasks without any external influences.

In terms of etymology, the word &#;robot&#; is derived from the Czech word robota, which means &#;forced labor.&#; The word first appeared in the play R.U.R., in reference to the play&#;s characters who were mass-produced workers incapable of creative thinking.

 

Robotics Aspects

 

Mechanical Construction

The mechanical aspect of a robot helps it complete tasks in the environment for which it&#;s designed. For example, the Mars Rover&#;s wheels are individually motorized and made of titanium tubing that help it firmly grip the harsh terrain of the red planet.

Electrical Components

Robots need electrical components that control and power the machinery. Essentially, an electric current &#; a battery, for example &#; is needed to power a large majority of robots.

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Software Program

Robots contain at least some level of computer programming. Without a set of code telling it what to do, a robot would just be another piece of simple machinery. Inserting a program into a robot gives it the ability to know when and how to carry out a task.

 

What Are the Main Components of a Robot?

 

Control System

Computation includes all of the components that make up a robot&#;s central processing unit, often referred to as its control system. Control systems are programmed to tell a robot how to utilize its specific components, similar in some ways to how the human brain sends signals throughout the body, in order to complete a specific task. These robotic tasks could comprise anything from minimally invasive surgery to assembly line packing.

Sensors

Sensors provide a robot with stimuli in the form of electrical signals that are processed by the controller and allow the robot to interact with the outside world. Common sensors found within robots include video cameras that function as eyes, photoresistors that react to light and microphones that operate like ears. These sensors allow the robot to capture its surroundings and process the most logical conclusion based on the current moment and allows the controller to relay commands to the additional components.

Actuators

A device can only be considered to be a robot if it has a movable frame or body. Actuators are the components that are responsible for this movement. These components are made up of motors that receive signals from the control system and move in tandem to carry out the movement necessary to complete the assigned task. Actuators can be made of a variety of materials, such as metal or elastic, and are commonly operated by use of compressed air (pneumatic actuators) or oil (hydraulic actuators) but come in a variety of formats to best fulfill their specialized roles.

Power Supply

Like the human body requires food in order to function, robots require power. Stationary robots, such as those found in a factory, may run on AC power through a wall outlet but more commonly, robots operate via an internal battery. Most robots utilize lead-acid batteries for their safe qualities and long shelf life while others may utilize the more compact but also more expensive silver-cadmium variety. Safety, weight, replaceability and lifecycle are all important factors to consider when designing a robot&#;s power supply. 

Some potential power sources for future robotic development also include pneumatic power from compressed gasses, solar power, hydraulic power, flywheel energy storage organic garbage through anaerobic digestion and nuclear power.

End Effectors

End effectors are the physical, typically external components that allow robots to finish carrying out their tasks. Robots in factories often have interchangeable tools like paint sprayers and drills, surgical robots may be equipped with scalpels and other kinds of robots can be built with gripping claws or even hands for tasks like deliveries, packing, bomb diffusion and much more.

 

How Do Robots Work?

Some robots are pre-programmed to perform specific functions, meaning they operate in a controlled environment where they do simple, monotonous tasks &#; like a mechanical arm on an automotive assembly line.

Other robots are autonomous, operating independently of human operators to carry out tasks in open environments. In order to work, they use sensors to perceive the world around them, and then employ decision-making structures (usually a computer) to take the optimal next step based on their data and mission.

Robots may also work by using wireless networks to enable human control from a safe distance. These teleoperated robots usually work in extreme geographical conditions, weather and circumstances. Examples of teleoperated robots are the human-controlled submarines used to fix underwater pipe leaks during the BP oil spill or drones used to detect landmines on a battlefield.

 

Types of Robotics

 

Humanoid Robots

Humanoid robots are robots that look like or mimic human behavior. These robots usually perform human-like activities (like running, jumping and carrying objects), and are sometimes designed to look like us, even having human faces and expressions. Two of the most prominent examples of humanoid robots are Hanson Robotics&#; Sophia and Boston Dynamics&#; Atlas.

Cobots

Cobots, or collaborative robots, are robots designed to work alongside humans. These robots prioritize safety by using sensors to remain aware of their surroundings, executing slow movements and ceasing actions when their movements are obstructed. Cobots typically perform simple tasks, freeing up humans to address more complex work.

Industrial Robots

Industrial robots automate processes in manufacturing environments like factories and warehouses. Possessing at least one robotic arm, these robots are made to handle heavy objects while moving with speed and precision. As a result, industrial robots often work in assembly lines to boost productivity.

Medical Robots

Medical robots assist healthcare professionals in various scenarios and support the physical and mental health of humans. These robots rely on AI and sensors to navigate healthcare facilities, interact with humans and execute precise movements. Some medical robots can even converse with humans, encouraging people&#;s social and emotional growth.

Agricultural Robots

Agricultural robots handle repetitive and labor-intensive tasks, allowing farmers to use their time and energy more efficiently. These robots also operate in greenhouses, where they monitor crops and help with harvests. Agricultural robots come in many forms, ranging from autonomous tractors to drones that collect data for farmers to analyze.

Microrobotics

Microrobotics is the study and development of robots on a miniature scale. Often no bigger than a millimeter, microrobots can vary in size, depending on the situation. Biotech researchers typically use microrobotics to monitor and treat diseases, with the goal of improving diagnostic tools and creating more targeted solutions.

Augmenting Robots

Augmenting robots, also known as VR robots, either enhance current human capabilities or replace the capabilities a human may have lost. The field of robotics for human augmentation is a field where science fiction could become reality very soon, with bots that have the ability to redefine the definition of humanity by making humans faster and stronger. Some examples of current augmenting robots are robotic prosthetic limbs or exoskeletons used to lift hefty weights.

Software Bots

Software bots, or simply &#;bots,&#; are computer programs which carry out tasks autonomously. They are not technically considered robots. One common use case of software robots is a chatbot, which is a computer program that simulates conversation both online and over the and is often used in customer service scenarios. Chatbots can either be simple services that answer questions with an automated response or more complex digital assistants that learn from user information.

 

Robotics Applications

Beginning as a major boon for manufacturers, robotics has become a mainstay technology for a growing number of industries.

Manufacturing

Industrial robots can assemble products, sort items, perform welds and paint objects. They may even be used to fix and maintain other machines in a factory or warehouse. 

Healthcare

Medical robots transport medical supplies, perform surgical procedures and offer emotional support to those going through rehabilitation.  

Companionship

Social robots can support children with learning disabilities and act as a therapeutic tool for people with dementia. They also have business applications like providing in-person customer service in hotels and moving products around warehouses. 

Home Use

Consumers may be most familiar with the Roomba and other robot vacuum cleaners. However, other home robots include lawn-mowing robots and personal robot assistants that can play music, engage with children and help with household chores.

Search and Rescue

Search and rescue robots can save those stuck in flood waters, deliver supplies to those stranded in remote areas and put out fires when conditions become too extreme for firefighters.

 

Pros and Cons of Robotics

Robotics comes with a number of benefits and drawbacks.

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Pros of Robotics

• Increased accuracy. Robots can perform movements and actions with greater precision and accuracy than humans.
• Enhanced productivity. Robots can work at a faster pace than humans and don&#;t get tired, leading to more consistent and higher-volume production. 
• Improved safety. Robots can take on tasks and operate in environments unsafe for humans, protecting workers from injuries. 
• Rapid innovation. Many robots are equipped with sensors and cameras that collect data, so teams can quickly refine processes. 
• Greater cost-efficiency. Gains in productivity may make robots a more cost-efficient option for businesses compared to hiring more human workers.

Cons of Robotics

• Job losses. Robotic process automation may put human employees out of work, especially those who don&#;t have the skills to adapt to a changing workplace.  
• Limited creativity. Robots may not react well to unexpected situations since they don&#;t have the same problem-solving skills as humans. 
• Data security risks. Robots can be hit with cyber attacks, potentially exposing large amounts of data if they&#;re connected to the Internet of Things.  
• Maintenance costs. Robots can be expensive to repair and maintain, and faulty equipment can lead to disruptions in production and revenue losses.  
• Environmental waste. Extracting raw materials to build robots and having to discard disposable parts can lead to more environmental waste and pollution.