Introduction to Robotics

• Robotics is a field of science and engineering concerned with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots.
• Robots can perform tasks autonomously or with minimal human intervention.
• They are used in industries, medicine, and everyday life.

History and Key Concepts

• Karel Čapek first used the word "robot" in his 1920 play R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots), where it described artificial workers rebelling against humans.
• Automation is the use of technology allowing machines to operate without continuous human control, improving efficiency and productivity.
• Mechanics has provided the foundation for modern robotics through the development of gears, pulleys, and motion control systems.
• Aristotle speculated about machines performing tasks automatically.
• Archytas designed a steam-powered wooden pigeon around 400-350 BC.
• Leonardo da Vinci designed a mechanical knight using gears and pulleys.
• Joseph Marie Jacquard invented a silk-weaving machine using punch cards in 1801, influencing computer tech.
• Isaac Asimov introduced the Three Laws of Robotics to establish ethical boundaries for robotic behavior.
• Early stages of robotics developments were driven by the need for labor-saving devices in industries.

Robot Components and Functionality

• A robot's base offers stability and support.
• The end effector is responsible for grasping or manipulating objects based on the robot’s function.
• Robots are classified by purpose and application.
• The functionality of an end effector depends on its ability to interact with various objects and environments.
• Track-based wheels demonstrate selective traction and adaptability in multiple terrains.
• Efficiency and power consumption are key considerations when selecting a servo motor for a robot's end effector.
• A microcontroller serves as the CPU and brain of the system in embedded systems.
• Robots use ultrasonic sensors to estimate the distance of an object by emitting sound waves and measuring their return time.

End of Arm Tools (EOAT)

• Attachments enabling robots to interact with objects.
• Vacuum cups - Used for picking up objects via suction.
• Magnets - Handling metallic objects.
• Welding guns - Manufacturing for joining metal parts.
• Paint Sprays - Coating objects efficiently.

Robot Connectivity

• Sensors gather data from their environment.
• End effectors allow physical interaction with objects.
• Electric motors control robotic movement.
• Bluetooth signals enable wireless communication with other devices.
• Sensor accuracy in line-following sensors for mBots improves path tracking and precision in navigation.

Sensors for Physical Interaction

• Capacitive touch sensors detect touch without physical pressure.
• Resistive touch sensors require physical contact to register input.
• Force sensors measure applied force or pressure.
• Ultrasonic sensors are used mainly for distance measurement.

The Role of Humans in Industrial Robotics

• Manipulating robot arms manually is essential for precise adjustments.
• Assessing robot performance ensures efficient operation.
• Pre-programming commands dictates robot tasks and operations.
• Human-Robot Interface (HRI) allows communication between users and robots.

Understanding Robot Automation

• Complex algorithms dictate robot decision-making.
• Mathematical models define motion and functionality.
• Sensor capabilities enhance responsiveness.
• Programming languages control robotic behavior.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Computer scientists, mathematicians, and cognitive scientists develop AI and decision-making processes.
• Industrial designers, HCI specialists, and engineers enhance user experience and mechanical design.
• Mechanical engineers and software developers ensure hardware-software integration.

Purpose of Robotic Arms in Manufacturing

• Developing innovative products enhances creativity in production.
• Applying cost-effective solutions reduces labor costs and increasing efficiency.
• Choosing efficient assembly methods streamlines manufacturing processes.
• Optimizing production speed enhances productivity and meeting demand.

Adaptability in Robotic Systems

• Robotics engineers develop modular designs to customize robots, enabling quick modifications and upgrades.

Role of Robots in Space Missions

• Telerobots are operated remotely for space tasks.
• Planetary defense robots study and mitigate space hazards.
• Assembly and maintenance robots help construct and maintain space structures.
• Satellite servicing robots aid in deploying and repairing satellites.

Exoskeleton Robotics

• Exoskeleton robotics enhances human abilities, such as strength and mobility, using robotic mechanisms.

Robots in Hospitality and Entertainment

• Hotels use human-like robots for customer service and entertainment.

Underwater Robotics

• Robots designed for deep-sea exploration are developed by underwater robotics makers.

Medical Robotics Applications

• Surgical procedures assist in precise operations.
• Rehabilitation aids recovery and mobility improvement.
• Diagnostics enhance early disease detection.
• Healthcare assistance supports patient care.

Adaptive Robotics

• Cognitive robotics enables robots to adjust to various environmental tasks.

Selecting the Right Robot

• A robot's capabilities and limitations should be carefully evaluated.

Phases of Robot Development

• The conceptualization phase determines the functionalities and capabilities required for a robot.

Primary Purpose of Robot Sensors

• Robot sensors are primarily used to detect environmental conditions.

Sensors in Robotics

Obstacle Avoidance:

• Infrared Transceivers: Detect objects based on infrared light reflection.
• Ultrasonic Distance Sensors: Measure distance using sound waves.
• Laser Range Sensors: Provide accurate distance measurement using laser beams.
• The sensors enable robots to navigate efficiently without collisions.

Robotic Actuators

• Actuators convert energy into motion, generating rotary motion.
• Electric Actuators: Use electricity to create movement.
• Hydraulic Actuators: Use fluid pressure for power.
• Pneumatic Actuators: Utilize compressed air.

Robot Stability and Motion

• Designers modify a robot’s center of gravity to ensure stability.
• Kinematics helps in predicting future movements and ensuring smooth operation.

Communication with Robots

• Operators communicate with robots by applying programs.

MBOT and Robotics Education

• MBOT is an educational robot designed to enhance students’ logical thinking and programming skills.
• Facilitates hands-on learning, uses block-based coding, and makes programming accessible and fun for students.
• MBOT programs: dancing, line following and singing.

Selecting Sensors for Robot

• The robot’s intended function.
• Environmental conditions.
• Operational requirements.

Evaluating and Considering Robot Components

• Evaluating involves assessing the effectiveness of a component.
• Considering means understanding the role and significance of each part.
• Robotics improves efficiency, accuracy, and safety by automating tasks.
• Understanding the fundamental principles of robotics is essential for designing and utilizing these machines effectively.