Dinuka W. MendisHND Computing & System Development

Batch 54 – 2014 ©

What is a robot?

A machine or a device consisting of electronic, electrical, or mechanical units that capable of

performing a variety of often complex human tasks on command or by being programed by a

computer.

Robotic history

The word robot (“Drudge worker”) was introduced to the public by Czech writer Karel Capek (1890 – 1938) in his

play R.U.R (Rossum’s Universal Robots), published in

1920.

The word “robotics” , used to describe the study of

robot science, was coined accidently by American

scientist and science fiction writer, Isaac Asimov (1920

– 1992) .

Asimov is a professor in Biochemistry at Boston University. And he introduced the “Isaac Asimov’s 3 laws” (1942).

1. A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.

2. A robot must obey the orders given to it by human beings, except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.

3. A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.

Isaac Asimov’s 3 laws

What are they made of?Currently most industrial robots have at least following five parts :

• Sensors• Effectors• Actuators• Controllers• Arms (common effectors),

Many other robots have A.I (Artificial Intelligence), and effectors that helps it archive Mobility.

Sensors

A sensor is a device that detects events or changes in quantities and provides a corresponding output, generally

as an electrical or optical signal.

Effectors

In robotics, an end effector is the device at the end of a robotic arm, designed to interact with the environment.

The exact nature of this device depends on the application of the robot.

Actuators

An actuator is a type of motor that is responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or system.

It is operated by a source of energy, typically electric current, hydraulic fluid pressure, or pneumatic pressure, and

converts that energy into motion

Controllers

A controller is a device which takes one or more inputs and adjusts its outputs so a connected device functions in a

controlled manner.

AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the intelligence exhibited by machines or software. It is an academic field of study which generally studies the goal of emulating human-like intelligence.

Why we need robots?

Humans wanted a machine to rely on, because robots never get tired and help the humans by different tasks all the time.

Types of robotsThe most common types of robots are...

1. Mobile robots

Mobile robots have the capability to move around, and this kind of robots are not attached to one physical location.

2. Industrial robots

Industrial robots usually consist of a jointed arm and an end effector (Gripper) that is attached to one physical location (fixed surface).

3. Educational robot

Robots are used as educational assistants to teachers. Educational robots can help children to learn about mathematics, physics, programming and electronics.

4. Modular robots

Modular robots (new breed of robots) designed to increase the utilization of robots by modularizing their architecture. Functionality and effectiveness is easier to increase.

5.Collaborative robots

Cobot (collaborative robot) is a robot that can safely and effectively interact with humans while performing simple tasks.

Robots in society Currently Japan is the country with highest number of robots.

Robots

JapanEuropeNorth AmericaAustralasiaAfricaOther Countries

Advantages… 1. Robots produce more accurate and high quality work.2. Robots rarely make mistakes and are more precise than human workers.3. They can produce a greater quantity in a short amount of time.4. They can work at a constant speed with no breaks, days off, or holiday time.5. They can perform applications with more repeatability than humans.6. Robots save workers from performing dangerous tasks.7. They can work in hazardous conditions, such as poor lighting, toxic

chemicals, or tight spaces.8. They are capable of lifting heavy loads without injury or tiring.9. Robots increase worker safety by preventing accidents since humans are not

performing risky jobs.10. Work cells provide safety features, separating the worker from harms way.11. Robots save time by being able to produce a greater magnitude of products12. They also reduce the amount of wasted material used due to their accuracy13. Robots save companies money in the long run with quick ROIs (return on

investment), fewer worker injuries (reducing or eliminating worker’s comp), and with using less materials.

Disadvantages… 1. People can lose jobs in factories.2. It needs a supply of power .3. It needs maintenance to keep it running.4. No guarantee.5. The initial investment to integrate automated robotics is high.6. Lack of emotions.7. They have limited duties as they will only do what is programmed and

cannot this for themselves.

Thank You!