Robotics 10 - Module 2: Control Interface

Robotics 10 - Quarter 3, Module 2: Final Elements and Control Interface

• This module focuses on the Final Elements and Control Interface.
• The learning materials are designed to help students master the topic.
• The language used recognizes the diverse vocabulary levels of learners.
• The lessons are arranged in a standard sequence, but the order can be adjusted based on the corresponding textbook.
• Module 2 includes Lesson 1: Final Elements and Control Interface: Status, Indicator Devices, Actuator, and Locomotion.

Lesson 1: Final Elements

• Students are expected to discuss the principles and concepts of control interface, functions, status indicator devices, actuators, and locomotion.
• Integrate the status indicator to the control interface.
• Select the appropriate control interfaces and actuators for a specific function or purpose.

Final Elements and Control Interface

• The word "robot" originates from the Czech word for forced labor.
• Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics (1942) include:
  • A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
  • A robot must obey the orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.
  • A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.
• A robot generally consists of:
  • A mechanical structure (e.g., wheeled platform, arm).
  • Sensors to collect environmental information.
  • Systems to process sensory input and instruct the device.

Mechanical Structure

• The robot's body includes arms and wheels.
• Electricity is often used to power and move the mechanical parts.

Motors

• Electric motors provide power to robots, moving them through programmed motions.
• Motor efficiency is measured by the percentage of electricity converted to mechanical energy.

Sensors

• Sensors gather data about the environment and convert it into usable information.
• Common types include light, touch, sound, and acceleration sensors.

Power Supply

• Robots use batteries (disposable and rechargeable).
• Rechargeable batteries last longer and can be recharged many times.

Control System

• Logic circuits control the mechanical systems.
• Relay switches use magnetic fields to change connections.
• Microcontrollers control the electronic components in robots.

Microcontrollers

• Microcontrollers work similarly to computer processors but are smaller and simpler.
• They handle control functions in robots.
• Compared to CPUs, they have fewer processing capabilities and memory, but are efficient for real-world control.

Status Indicators

• Status indicators are used to display information about the robot's key outputs.
• They use colors (green, yellow, or red) based on parameters set by the user.
• Indicators can be lamp-like or in the form of gauges like a speedometer, for different outputs.

Actuators

• Actuators change electrical or other types of energy into mechanical force for movement.
• They are present in many machines, from simple household appliances to robots and industrial tools.

Different Types of Robot Actuators

• Linear Actuators: Move linearly.

• Rotary Actuators: Rotate around an axis.

• Hydraulic Actuators: Use hydraulic fluid for power.

  • Advantages: high force, constant torque, easy maintenance.
  • Disadvantages: expensive, maintenance is needed, and leakage issues can occur.

• Pneumatic Actuators: Use compressed air for power.

  • Advantages: clean, less polluting, inexpensive, easy to operate
  • Disadvantages: noisy, lack of precision control, sensitive to vibrations.

• Electric Actuators: Convert electrical energy into motion.

  • Types: DC motors, gear motors, servo motors, stepper motors, BLDC motors, harmonic drives, and linear actuators.
  • Advantages: high precision, readily programmed, feedback, and less noise compared to other actuators
  • Disadvantages: cost implications compared to pneumatic or hydraulic actuators.

Learning Activities (Matching Type)

• A list of robotics concepts from column A and matched with their correct descriptions in column B.

Reflection

• This section asks for student thought on the topics covered.
• Three sections require students to answer what they: found, learned, and need clarification on regarding the final elements and control interface.