Robotics technology is a
fascinating field that
explores the design,
construction, operation, and
application of robots.
By: Junel L. Corpuz
What is a Robot?
• A robot is defined as any machine that is capable of carrying
out a complex series of actions automatically, especially
those that are programmable by a computer.
• A robot is designed to execute one or more tasks
automatically with speed and precision.
• A robot can be humanoid in form but in most cases, they do
not like humans.
• They come in different types like mobile robots with wheels,
flying robots, bipedal robots and many more types.
Who introduced the word robot?
The term robot was first Isaac Asimov, coined the word
introduced by a Czech robotics as the science of the
dramatist, Karel Capek in his study of robots, in his science
1920 play "Rossum's Universal fiction stories about robots in
Robots". He was referring to a 1940s.
perfect and tireless worker
performing manual labor jobs
for human beings.
Czech Theater, z.s. presents
Rossums Universal Robots by
Karel Čapek translated into
English by Claudia Novack.
Czech Theater is a new
multicultural amateur community
theater presenting Czech plays in
English. This Czech play that
introduced the word ROBOT to
the world was prescient for its
time and the questions it raises
remain relevant today.
What is “Automation”?
'Automation' refers to a Automation is generally
mode of operation in which regarded as being able to be
any machine or piece of divided into 3 types:
equipment is capable of 1. Fixed automation
working without human 2. Flexible automation
intervention. 3. Programmable
Automation
What is Fixed
Automation?
Fixed automation, also known as hard
automation, refers to systems designed to
produce a single type of product. Fixed
(complex) automation typically involves a set
of repetitive or fixed sequences (hence the
name), such as the assembly or processing of
a product. This type of manufacturing
automation uses specialized hardware to
Common Example: automobile industry, automate assembly or fixed sequential
where highly integrated transfer line are processing operations.
used to perform machine operation on
engine and transmission components
What is Flexible
Automation?
Flexible automation uses a human-controlled
centralized computer that controls and
updates the production process, as well as a
material handling system that groups its
machines. This type of automation, called
"soft automation", is used in computer-
controlled flexible manufacturing systems
(FMS) and enables more flexible production.
Typically consists of a series of workstation
Example: Flexible Manufacturing System that are interconnected by material-handling
(FMS), Computer Integrated and storage equipment to process different
Manufacturing (CIM) product configuration at the same time to
control manufacturing system.
What is Programmable
Automation?
Programmable automation involves using
machines and equipment that can be
reprogrammed to perform different tasks.
Programmable automation utilizes an
assortment of Computer Numerical
Controlled (CNC) machine tools, industrial
robotic applications and Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLC) that work in real time.
Example: Computer Numerical Control Operational efficiency is accomplished
(CNC) machines, Programmable Logic through the application of logical
Controller (PLC)-based systems used in programming commands with automation
technologies that power equipment and
manufacturing machinery.
Components of a Robot Defined
1 Actuators
Actuators are the "muscles" of robots, responsible for movement.
Common actuators include electric motors, hydraulics, and
pneumatics.
2 Sensors
Sensors provide robots with information about their surroundings,
allowing them to interact with the world. They detect factors like
light, temperature, and distance.
3 Control System
The control system is the "brain" of a robot, coordinating its
actions and making decisions. It processes sensor data and
sends commands to actuators.
4 Power Source
Robots need a power source to operate, typically batteries,
electricity, or hydraulics, depending on the robot's size and
purpose.
Control Systems and Programming
Control System Programming
Processes sensor data Defines robot actions
Commands actuators Uses programming languages like C++, Python
Provides feedback and correction Enables complex robot behaviors
Robotic Manipulators and
End-Effectors Defined
Manipulators
Manipulators are the robot's arms, providing it with the ability to move
and interact with objects. They consist of links and joints, offering a
range of motion.
End Effectors
End effectors are specialized tools attached to the manipulator's end.
These tools perform specific tasks, such as grasping, welding,
painting, or cutting.
Degrees of Freedom
The number of degrees of freedom (DOF) determines the robot's range
of motion. Robots with more DOF can perform complex tasks and
reach difficult areas.
Robotic Mobility Systems
Defined
1 Wheeled Robots
Wheeled robots are common and efficient for
navigating flat surfaces. They offer simplicity and
speed.
2 Tracked Robots
Tracked robots provide greater traction and stability,
making them suitable for uneven terrain and rough
surfaces.
3 Legged Robots
Legged robots offer flexibility and adaptability,
enabling them to traverse complex terrain and
navigate obstacles.
Emerging Trends in
Robotics Defined
1 Collaborative Robots (Cobots)
Cobots work alongside humans, sharing
tasks and improving productivity. They are
designed for safety and ease of use.
Emerging Trends in
Robotics Defined
2 Swarm Robotics
Swarm robots consist of multiple small
robots that coordinate to perform tasks
collectively. This approach offers flexibility
and adaptability.
Emerging Trends in
Robotics Defined
3 Cloud Robotics
Cloud robotics connects robots to the cloud,
enabling them to share data, access
processing power, and receive updates
remotely.
Emerging Trends in
Robotics Defined
4 Bio-inspired Robotics
Robots are being designed with biological
inspiration, mimicking the movement and
capabilities of animals, such as insects and
birds.
Importance of Robotics
Manufacturing
Robots automate repetitive tasks, increasing production speed
and efficiency. They are used in assembly, welding, painting, and
material handling.
Logistics and Warehousing
Robots are employed in warehouse automation, picking, packing,
and delivery. They improve efficiency and accuracy in logistics
operations.
Agriculture
Robots assist in tasks like planting, harvesting, and pest control,
increasing agricultural yields and reducing labor costs.
Artificial Intelligence in Robotics
Machine Learning Computer Vision Natural Language Planning and
Processing Decision-Making
Robots can learn from Robots can "see" and
data and improve their interpret their Robots can understand AI algorithms enable
performance without environment using and respond to human robots to plan complex
explicit programming. cameras and image language, facilitating tasks, make decisions in
This allows them to processing algorithms, communication and real-time, and navigate
adapt to new situations enabling navigation and collaboration with challenging
and tasks. object recognition. humans. environments.
Ethical Considerations in Robotics
Job Displacement Safety and Security
Ensuring robot safety and security is paramount,
Automation may lead to job losses in certain
especially as robots become more integrated into
industries. It's crucial to address this issue with
our lives. Robust safety protocols are essential.
retraining programs and new job creation.
Bias and Discrimination Autonomy and Responsibility
AI systems used in robots can inherit biases Defining the boundaries of robot autonomy and
from the data they are trained on, leading to assigning responsibility for their actions is a
ethical concerns. Addressing bias is crucial. complex ethical challenge.