Introduction to Robotics PDF

Introduction to Robotics Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson, students will be able to… Define and explain the concept of a robot. Identify key characteristics of robots. Explore the historical development of robotics. Engage in a class discussion to share and analyze their pe...

Introduction to Robotics Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson, students will be able to… Define and explain the concept of a robot. Identify key characteristics of robots. Explore the historical development of robotics. Engage in a class discussion to share and analyze their perceptions of robots. What is a Robot and Robotics? What is a Robot and Robotics? What is robotics? Robotics is a branch of engineering and computer science that involves the conception, design, manufacture and operation of robots. The objective of the robotics field is to create intelligent machines that can assist humans in a variety of ways. What is a Robot and Robotics? What is robotics? Robotics can take on several forms. A robot might resemble a human or be in the form of a robotic application, such as robotic process automation, which simulates how humans engage with software to perform repetitive, rules-based tasks. What is a Robot and Robotics? What is robotics? While the field of robotics and exploration of the potential uses and functionality of robots have grown substantially in the 21st century, the idea certainly isn't new. Key characteristics of robots Key characteristics of robots Sensors: Robots are equipped with various sensors to perceive and gather data from their environment. These sensors can include cameras, microphones, touch sensors, infrared detectors, and more. Sensors provide information that robots use to make decisions and respond to changes in their surroundings. Key characteristics of robots Actuators: Actuators are mechanisms or devices that enable robots to interact with their environment. Common actuators include motors, pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic systems, and grippers. Actuators allow robots to move, manipulate objects, and perform physical tasks. Key characteristics of robots Control System: Robots have a control system comprising both hardware and software. The control system processes sensor data, executes algorithms, and makes decisions. It directs the robot's actuators to perform specific actions and movements, enabling the robot to carry out tasks. Key characteristics of robots Programming: Robots are programmed to perform specific tasks. Programmers use specialized software and programming languages to define a robot's behavior, movements, and responses to different inputs. Advanced robots may use machine learning and AI algorithms to adapt and learn from their experiences. Key characteristics of robots Physical Form: Robots can take on a wide range of physical forms, from traditional industrial robotic arms to humanoid robots and mobile robots like drones or autonomous vehicles. The form of a robot is often designed to suit its intended application. Comprehension Check 1. What is the primary objective of the field of robotics? a. To design computer software b. To create intelligent machines c. To simulate human behavior d. To develop advanced sensors Comprehension Check 2. Which field does robotics combine to create intelligent machines? a. Engineering and biology b. Engineering and computer science c. Chemistry and physics d. Mathematics and psychology Comprehension Check 3. How does the control system of a robot contribute to its functionality? a. It gathers environmental data. b. It executes programming code. c. It designs the robot's physical form. d. It enhances the robot's sensors. The early history of robotics The early history of robotics Ancient Automata: The concept of automated machines dates to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece, inventors like Archytas of Tarentum and Hero of Alexandria created devices powered by steam, air, or water to achieve simple movements and functions. Hero, for instance, designed mechanical devices like the aeolipile, a steam-powered rotating sphere, and various automatons powered by water. Note: Automata is a moving mechanical device made in imitation of a human being. The early history of robotics Ancient Automata: Hero’s wash basin automata Hero’s windwheel The early history of robotics Ancient Automata: Archytas of Tarentum Hero of Alexandria The early history of robotics Medieval Automata: During the Middle Ages, European inventors created mechanical automata for entertainment and religious purposes. These included clockwork devices that could mimic human and animal movements, such as the astronomical clock at Prague's Old Town Hall, built in 1410. The early history of robotics Medieval Automata: Ismail al-Jazari (1136–1206) was a prominent polymath, inventor, engineer, and scholar from the Islamic Golden Age. He is recognized for his significant contributions to various fields, including engineering, robotics, and automation, during the 12th century. Al-Jazari's work is particularly notable for its impact on the development of mechanical devices and automated systems. The early history of robotics Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices: Al-Jazari is best known for his book titled "Kitab al-Hiyal al-Kiyasiya" (The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices), which he completed in 1206. This book is a comprehensive treatise on mechanical engineering and contains detailed descriptions of numerous mechanical devices and automata. The Elephant Clock", Folio from a Book of the Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices by al-Jazari The early history of robotics Automata and Water Clocks: In "The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices," al-Jazari described various intricate automata and water clocks that he designed. These devices included musical automata, automatic doors, mechanical musicians, and more. One of his notable inventions was the "Elephant Clock," a water clock featuring a mechanical elephant and various figurines that performed different actions at specific times. The early history of robotics Karel Čapek: The term robotics is an extension of the word robot. One of its first uses came from Czech writer Karel Čapek, who used the word in his 1920 play, Rossum's Universal Robots. Karel Čapek The early history of robotics Karel Čapek: "R.U.R." (Rossum's Universal Robots). The play introduced the concept of artificial, human-like beings created to perform labor for humans. While these were more biological than mechanical, the play popularized the term Karel Čapek "robot." The early history of robotics Isaac Asimov: In the 1940s, the Oxford English Dictionary credited science fiction author Isaac Asimov for being the first person to use the term robotics. Isaac Asimov American writer The early history of robotics Isaac Asimov: In Asimov's story, he suggested three principles to guide the behavior of autonomous robots and smart machines: 1. Robots must never harm human beings. 2. Robots must follow instructions from humans without violating rule 1. 3. Robots must protect themselves without violating the other rules. The early history of robotics Unimate: The Unimate, developed by George Devol and Joseph Engelberger in the late 1950s, is often considered the first industrial robot. It was used for tasks such as die casting and spot welding in manufacturing, marking a significant milestone in the automation of industrial processes. The early history of robotics Space Exploration: In the 1960s and 1970s, robotics played a vital role in space exploration. The Soviet Union's Luna program deployed robotic lunar landers and rovers, while NASA's Apollo program used robotic arms on spacecraft for various tasks. The Viking landers in the 1970s also used robotic arms for Mars exploration. Seatwork No. 2 Essay: 1. What are some current or emerging industries or professions where robotics is making a significant impact, and how might this influence your career choices? 2. Reflect on the environmental implications of robotics technology. How might advancements in robotics contribute to sustainability and environmental conservation efforts in your region or globally? Thank you!