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.

Components of Robots:
Robots are complex systems composed of various components that work together
to perform specific tasks. These components can be categorized into several
groups, including:
1. Mechanical Components:
Body/Chassis: The main structure of the robot that houses all the other
components.
Joints: Allow for movement and flexibility in the robot's limbs or arms.
Actuators: Motors or other devices that provide power to move the robot's joints or
limbs.
Sensors: Devices that detect and respond to changes in the environment, such as
touch, light, or sound.
2. Electronic Components:
Microcontrollers: Small computers that control the robot's movements and actions.
Power Supply: Provides energy to the robot's components.
Sensors and Actuators Interface: Connects sensors and actuators to the
microcontroller.
Communication Module: Enables communication between the robot and other
devices or systems.
3. Control Systems:
Control Algorithms: Software that determines the robot's actions and movements
based on sensor data and programming.
Feedback Loops: Allow the robot to adjust its movements and actions based on
sensor feedback.
Motion Planning: Software that plans and executes the robot's movements.
4. Sensing and Perception:
Sensors: Devices that detect and respond to changes in the environment, such as:
Touch Sensors: Detect physical contact or pressure.
Vision Sensors: Detect and interpret visual data.
Acoustic Sensors: Detect and interpret sound waves.
Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU): Measures the robot's orientation, acceleration,
and angular velocity.
Perception Algorithms: Software that interprets and processes sensor data to
understand the environment.
Joints in Robotics:
In robotics, joints are mechanical components that connect two or more links or
segments of a robot's body, allowing for movement and flexibility. Joints are a crucial
component of robotic systems, enabling robots to perform a wide range of tasks,
from simple pick-and-place operations to complex tasks like assembly, welding, or
surgery.
Types of Joints:
Revolute Joint (R-Joint): A revolute joint is a type of joint that allows for rotational
movement around a single axis. It is similar to a hinge joint in the human body. R-
joints are commonly used in robotic arms, allowing for flexion and extension
movements.
Prismatic Joint (P-Joint): A prismatic joint is a type of joint that allows for linear
movement along a single axis. It is similar to a sliding joint in the human body. P-
joints are commonly used in robotic arms, allowing for translation movements.
Spherical Joint (S-Joint): A spherical joint is a type of joint that allows for rotational
movement around multiple axes. It is similar to a ball-and-socket joint in the human
body. S-joints are commonly used in robotic arms, allowing for complex movements
like rotation and flexion.
Cylindrical Joint (C-Joint): A cylindrical joint is a type of joint that allows for
rotational movement around a single axis, as well as linear movement along that
axis. It is similar to a combination of R-joint and P-joint. C-joints are commonly used
in robotic arms, allowing for complex movements like rotation and translation.
Helical Joint (H-Joint): A helical joint is a type of joint that allows for rotational
movement around a single axis, as well as linear movement along a helical path. It
is similar to a screw-like joint. H-joints are commonly used in robotic arms, allowing
for complex movements like rotation and translation along a curved path.
Joint Characteristics:
Degree of Freedom (DOF): The degree of freedom of a joint refers to the number
of independent movements it can perform. For example, a revolute joint has 1 DOF,
while a spherical joint has 3 DOF.
Range of Motion: The range of motion of a joint refers to the maximum angle or
distance it can move. For example, a revolute joint may have a range of motion of 0-
180 degrees.
Joint Stiffness: Joint stiffness refers to the resistance of a joint to movement. A
stiffer joint requires more force to move, while a less stiff joint requires less force.
Joint Damping: Joint damping refers to the ability of a joint to absorb shock and
vibrations. A joint with high damping can absorb more shock and vibrations, while a
joint with low damping may oscillate or vibrate excessively.
Links in Robotics:
In robotics, links are the rigid or semi-rigid components that connect joints together,
forming the robot's body or structure. Links are a crucial part of robotic systems, as
they provide the framework for the robot's movement and functionality.
Types of Links:
Rigid Links: Rigid links are fixed, non-deformable components that connect joints
together. They are typically made of metal, carbon fiber, or other rigid materials.
Rigid links provide structural integrity and support to the robot's body.
Semi-Rigid Links: Semi-rigid links are flexible components that connect joints
together, allowing for some degree of deformation or flexibility. They are typically
made of materials like rubber, plastic, or composite materials. Semi-rigid links
provide flexibility and compliance to the robot's body.
Flexible Links: Flexible links are highly deformable components that connect joints
together, allowing for a high degree of flexibility and movement. They are typically
made of materials like silicone, rubber, or other elastomers. Flexible links are often
used in soft robotics or robotic systems that require high flexibility.
Link Characteristics:
Length: The length of a link refers to its distance between the joints it connects.
Link length affects the robot's reach, workspace, and movement capabilities.
Mass: The mass of a link refers to its weight and inertia. Link mass affects the
robot's dynamics, stability, and movement capabilities.
Stiffness: The stiffness of a link refers to its resistance to deformation or bending.
Link stiffness affects the robot's precision, accuracy, and movement capabilities.
Damping: The damping of a link refers to its ability to absorb shock and vibrations.
Link damping affects the robot's stability, precision, and movement capabilities.
Link Design Considerations:
Structural Integrity: Links must be designed to withstand the stresses and loads
imposed by the robot's movement and environment.
Weight Optimization: Links should be designed to minimize weight while
maintaining structural integrity, to optimize the robot's performance and efficiency.
Material Selection: Links should be made from materials that provide the required
strength, stiffness, and durability, while also considering factors like cost, weight,
and corrosion resistance.
Configuration of Robots:
Cartesian Robot configuration:
A Cartesian robot, also known as a linear robot, has three linear joints that move in a
straight line. The robot's end-effector moves in a rectangular coordinate system, with
three degrees of freedom (x, y, z).
Advantages:
High precision and accuracy
Easy to control and program
Suitable for tasks that require linear motion, such as pick-and-place operations
Disadvantages:
Limited flexibility and dexterity
Not suitable for tasks that require complex motion or curved trajectories
Applications:
Pick-and-place machines
CNC machines
3D printing machines
2. Spherical Configuration:
A spherical robot, also known as a polar robot, has two rotary joints and one linear
joint. The robot's end-effector moves in a spherical coordinate system, with three
degrees of freedom (θ, φ, r).
Advantages:
High dexterity and flexibility
Suitable for tasks that require curved motion or spherical trajectories
Can reach points in a large workspace
Disadvantages:
Complex control and programming
Limited precision and accuracy
Applications:
Welding robots
Painting robots
Material handling robots

3. Cylindrical Configuration:
A cylindrical robot has two rotary joints and one linear joint. The robot's end-effector
moves in a cylindrical coordinate system, with three degrees of freedom (θ, z, r).
Advantages:
High dexterity and flexibility
Suitable for tasks that require curved motion or cylindrical trajectories
Can reach points in a large workspace
Disadvantages:
Complex control and programming
Limited precision and accuracy
Applications:
Assembly robots
Inspection robots
Material handling robots
4. Articulated Configuration:
An articulated robot, also known as a jointed-arm robot, has multiple rotary joints
that move in a sequence. The robot's end-effector moves in a complex trajectory,
with multiple degrees of freedom.
Advantages:
High dexterity and flexibility
Suitable for tasks that require complex motion or curved trajectories
Can reach points in a large workspace
Disadvantages:
Complex control and programming
Limited precision and accuracy
Applications:
Industrial robots
Service robots
Humanoid robots

Advantages and Disadvantages of Robots in Manufacturing

Advantages:

1. Increased Productivity: Robots can work 24/7 without breaks, increasing production rates
and reducing lead times.
2. Improved Accuracy: Robots can perform tasks with high precision and accuracy, reducing
errors and defects.
3. Enhanced Safety: Robots can perform tasks that are hazardous or dangerous for humans,
reducing the risk of injury or illness.
4. Reduced Labor Costs: Robots can automate tasks, reducing the need for human labor
and associated costs.
5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Robots can be programmed to perform a variety of tasks and
adapt to changes in production lines.
6. Improved Quality: Robots can inspect products and detect defects, ensuring high-quality
products.
7. Reduced Material Waste: Robots can optimize production processes, reducing material
waste and costs.
8. Scalability: Robots can be easily scaled up or down to meet changing production
demands.
9. Improved Supply Chain Management: Robots can help manage inventory and supply
chain logistics.
10. Data Analysis: Robots can collect and analyze data, providing insights to improve
production processes.

Disadvantages:

1. High Initial Investment: The initial cost of purchasing and implementing robots can be
high.
2. Maintenance and Repair: Robots require regular maintenance and repair, which can be
time-consuming and costly.
3. Limited Flexibility: While robots can be programmed to perform a variety of tasks, they
may not be able to adapt to unexpected changes or tasks outside their programming.
4. Job Displacement: The automation of tasks can lead to job displacement for human
workers.
5. Technical Issues: Robots can malfunction or experience technical issues, leading to
downtime and lost productivity.
6. Programming Complexity: Programming robots can be complex and require specialized
skills.
7. Integration Challenges: Integrating robots into existing production lines can be
challenging and require significant changes to infrastructure.
8. Cybersecurity Risks: Robots can be vulnerable to cybersecurity risks, such as hacking
and data breaches.
9. Limited Sensing and Perception: Robots may not have the same level of sensing and
perception as humans, which can limit their ability to perform certain tasks.
10. Dependence on Technology: Robots rely on complex technology, which can be prone to
failures and errors.
Applications of Robots:
1. Security
One of the top applications of robotics is in the field of security. Imagine a world
where all security guards are robots. Even thieves would think twice before
committing a crime! That’s why robotics is being considered as a solution to
enhance security measures. Robots can serve as security agents, protecting
humans without being vulnerable to danger like human security guards.
One prominent company leading the way in this field is Knightscope in the United
States. They have developed autonomous security robots equipped with cutting-
edge features to assist human security guards effectively. These robots are
capable of providing real-time, actionable intelligence, helping to prevent and
address various crimes such as armed robberies, burglaries, domestic violence,
fraud, hit-and-runs, and more.
2. Space Exploration
Many things in space are very dangerous for astronauts to do. Humans can’t roam
on Mars all day to collect soil samples or work on repairing a spaceship from the
outside while it’s in deep space! In these situations, robots are a great choice
because there are no chances for the loss of human life. So space institutions
like NASA frequently use robots and autonomous vehicles to do things that
humans can’t. This can be one of the top applications of robotics.
3. Entertainment
Another top application of robotics is robots are also a big draw in the
entertainment industry. While they cannot exactly become actors and actresses,
they can be used behind the sets in movies and serials to manage the camera,
provide special effects, etc. They can be used for boring repetitive tasks that are
not suitable for a human as cinema is, after all, a creative industry. Robots can
also be used to do stunt work that is very dangerous for humans but looks pretty
cool in an action movie. Theme parks like Disney World are also using
autonomous robots to enhance the magical experience of their customers.
4. Agriculture
Agriculture is the sector that is the basis of human civilization. However,
agriculture is also a seasonal sector that is dependent on ideal weather conditions
optimal soil, etc. One of the top applications of robotics in agriculture is for
harvesting crops. Robotic harvesters streamline the harvesting process, allowing
farmers to complete tasks more efficiently. An exemplary robot used for weed
removal in farms is the Ecorobotix. This innovative robot is powered by solar
energy and equipped with a sophisticated camera system. It precisely targets and
sprays weeds, minimizing the need for manual labor and chemical usage while
optimizing crop health.
5. Health Care
One of the top applications of robotics is robots have changed healthcare a lot.
And all for the better! They can help doctors in performing operations more
precisely, be used as prosthetic limbs, provide therapy to patients, etc. The
possibilities are limitless. One example of this is the da Vinci robot that can help
surgeons in performing complex surgeries relating to the heart, head, neck, and
other sensitive areas. Other robotic devices are created like exoskeletons that can
be used to provide additional support for people undergoing rehabilitation after
spinal injuries, strokes, etc.
6. Underwater Exploration
Robots are a great option for exploring places that humans cannot reach easily,
like the depths of the ocean! There is a lot of water pressure deep in the ocean
which means humans cannot go that down and machines such as submarines can
only go to a certain depth as well.
A deep underwater is a mysterious place that can finally be explored using
specially designed robots. These robots are remote-controlled, and they can go
into the depths of the ocean to collect data and images about aquatic plant and
animal life.
7. Food Preparation
Don’t want to cook? Don’t worry, some robots can even cook and create complete
meals for you! This can be a top application of robotics for people who don’t like
to cook. These robot chefs can create food using hundreds of different
recipes. Moley Robotics is one such robotics company that has created a robotic
kitchen with a robot that can cook like a master chef! So no worries if you can’t
cook food. Because now a robot can!
8. Manufacturing
One of the top applications of robotics in the manufacturing industry
is automating repetitive tasks. Many repetitive and common tasks in the
manufacturing industry don’t require any usage of the mind like welding,
assembly, packing, etc. These tasks can be easily done by robots while leaving
the mentally challenging and creative tasks to humans. These robots can be
trained to perform these repetitive and monotonous tasks with precision under
the guidance and supervision of a human. This option is also best for
manufacturing processes that are dangerous and may be harmful to humans.
9. Military
Applications of Robotics in the military can be vast. They can be used as drones
to keep surveillance on the enemy, they can also be used as armed systems to
attack the opposing forces or as Medicare agents to help friendly forces.
Some of the popular robots used in the Military sector include MAARS (Modular
Advanced Armed Robotic System) which looks like a tank and contains tear gas
and lasers to confuse enemies and even a grenade launcher for desperate
situations. DOGO is also a tactical combat robot that has a camera for spying on
the activities of the enemy and a 9-millimeter pistol for emergencies!
10. Customer Service
Some robots are developed to look exactly like humans for cosmetic purposes.
These robots are primarily used in the field of customer service in high-visibility
areas to promote robotics.
One such example is Nadine, a humanoid robot in Singapore that can recognize
people from previous visits, make eye contact, shake hands, continue chatting
based on previous meetings, etc. Another customer service robot is Junko
Chihira in Japan, a humanoid robot working at the tourist information center in
Aqua City Odaiba, a shopping center on Tokyo’s waterfront.
Conclusion
Now you have seen the various applications of robots in different industries.
Robots can do all the physically demanding tasks that are difficult or impossible
for humans, and they are even becoming smarter and smarter with the advances
in artificial intelligence. All in all, robots can be the perfect helper for humans and
solve many problems in different industries.