Robot
Robot
automatically. Robots can be guided by an external control device, or the control may be
embedded within. A robot is an autonomous or semi-autonomous machine designed to perform
tasks that would otherwise be done by human. Autonomous; existing or capable of existing
independently, undertaken or carried on without outside control. A robot can be guided by an
external control device, or the control may be embedded within.
OR
The Robot Institute of America (1969) defines robot as “…. a reprogrammable, multi-
functional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, tools or specialized devices through
various programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks”.
Robot – An electro-mechanical machine with sensors, electronics and guided by
computers.
ROBOTICS; The branch of technology that deals with the design, construction,
operation, and application of robots ,as well as computer systems for their control, sensory
feedback, and information processing .
HISTORY
Unimate was the first industrial robot,[1] which worked on a General Motors assembly
line at the Inland Fisher Guide Plant in Ewing Township, New Jersey, in 1961.[2][3][4] The machine
weighed 4000 pounds[8] and undertook the job of ( unloading the finished castings from a die-
cast press)transporting die castings from an assembly line and welding these parts on auto
bodies, a dangerous task for workers, who might be poisoned by toxic fumes or lose a limb if
they were not careful. The original Unimate consisted of a large computer-like box, joined to
another box and was connected to an arm, with systematic tasks stored in a drum memory.(
Drum memory was a magnetic data storage device .Drums were displaced as primary computer
memory by magnetic core memory, which offered a better balance of size, speed, cost, reliability
and potential for further improvements.[4] Drums were then replaced by hard disk
drives for secondary storage)
In 1966, television audiences around the world got to see the robot for the first time as
Johnny Carson welcomed the Unimate on the Tonight Show. In this live broadcast from NBC
Studios in New York City, Engelberger had the robot perform several tricks to wow viewers,
including knocking a golf ball into a cup, pouring a beer, and conducting the Tonight Show band.
General motors in 1969 had an Ohio plant installing Unimate spot welding robots. Capable of
production speed never before achieved, the robots built 110 cars per hour - more than double
the rate of any automotive plant in existence at the time. GM revolutionized the automotive
industry. The Europeans were quick to follow suit and companies like BMW, Volvo, Mercedes
Benz, British Leyland, and Fiat installed Unimate robotic arms to perform jobs that were
unpleasant and dangerous for humans, a robot benefit very important to Engelberger.
Effect of the unimate in ohio plant
In 1967, GM installed the first two spot-welding robots at its Norwood, Ohio, plant, also
without much controversy. But when the company launched a spot-welding line of 28 robots in
1970 at its Lordstown, Ohio, plant, workers protested.
The Lordstown plant is often viewed as a textbook example of factory workers revolting against
automation. The new line of robots was just part of a bigger plan to ratchet up productivity. GM
had chosen Lordstown to produce its first subcompact car, the Chevrolet Vega. In 1971, the
General Motors Assembly Division retooled the plant to increase efficiency, resulting in the
layoffs of at least 700 workers, the reassignment of hundreds more, and the elimination of 300 to
500 line jobs considered too easy for human workers. They also increased line speeds by 67
percent, from 60 cars per hour to 101 cars per hour, with the aim of producing nearly 400,000
Vegas in 1972.
in Isaac Asimov’s science-fiction story Runaround (1942) the term robot was generated
Asimov’s famous Three Laws of Robotics:
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 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 Law.
Classification of robots
By chronology
1. First generation: robot manipulators
These can pick up and move objects but they have very restricted movements. Primarily
industrial robots used for repetitive tasks in manufacturing, such as welding, painting, and
material handling.
They operated based on pre-programmed sequences and had limited flexibility.
Examples include the Unimate robot introduced by Unimation in the 1960s
Example: Uncrewed aerial vehicles: Often referred to as drones, this is an aircraft that
flies without the physical presence of a human pilot, crew, or passengers. It is also known
as a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA).
Bomb disposal robots: These teleoperated robots disable explosive devices while
remotely controlled by a human operator at a distance.IED detonater
Manufacturing machinery: These robotic devices can build automobiles, operate in a
foundry, palletize consumer goods, and more.
Semi-Autonomous Robots
These robots have some level of autonomy, but still require human intervention or supervision to
perform certain tasks.
Example: A robotic arm used in a manufacturing process, where the robot can perform pre-
programmed movements, but a human operator may need to adjust the gripper or change the
program as needed.
Or a Mars Exploration Rover
Autonomous Functions:
The MERs have several autonomous capabilities:
Obstacle Avoidance: They can detect obstacles in their path using onboard cameras and
adjust their routes to avoid collisions.
Solar Panel Orientation: The rovers autonomously adjust the orientation of their solar
panels to maximize energy production.
Instrument Placement: When analyzing rocks or soil, the rovers autonomously position
their scientific instruments (such as spectrometers and cameras) for data collection.
Daily Operations: They follow pre-programmed routines for daily operations, including
waking up, communicating with Earth, and performing scientific measurements.
Human Intervention:
Despite their autonomy, MERs rely on human operators for critical decisions:
Path Planning: While they can avoid obstacles, humans plan the overall path and select
specific targets.
Science Goals: Scientists on Earth decide which rocks or features to investigate.
Software Updates: Humans upload new software to enhance their capabilities or address
unforeseen challenges.
Based on Mobility
1. Stationary Robots
Example: Industrial Robotic Arms
Description: These robots are fixed in one place and operate within a defined workspace. They
typically perform repetitive tasks with high precision.
Applications: Used in manufacturing for tasks like welding, painting, assembly, and material
handling.
Specific Model: Fanuc M-2000iA, known for its high payload capacity and precision in handling
heavy objects.
2. Mobile Robots
A. Wheeled Robots
Example: Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)
Description: These robots use wheels to move around, often equipped with sensors and cameras
for navigation and obstacle avoidance.
Applications: Commonly used in warehouses for inventory management, order picking, and
transportation of goods.
Specific Model: Kiva Robots by Amazon Robotics, which efficiently navigate warehouse floors
and transport items to picking stations.
Example: Delivery Robots
Description: Small, wheeled robots designed to transport goods over short distances, such as
food or packages.
Applications: Used in urban environments for last-mile delivery services.
Specific Model: Starship Robots, which deliver groceries and packages to customers' doorsteps.
B. Legged Robots
Example: Quadrupedal Robots
Description: Robots with four legs, designed to mimic animal locomotion. They can navigate
rough terrain and perform tasks that require stability.
Applications: Used in search and rescue operations, military reconnaissance, and research.
Specific Model: Spot by Boston Dynamics, capable of traversing difficult terrain, climbing
stairs, and carrying payloads.
Example: Humanoid Robots
Description: Robots designed to resemble and move like humans, typically with two legs
(bipedal locomotion).
Applications: Used in research, entertainment, and as assistants in environments designed for
humans.
Specific Model: ASIMO by Honda, which can walk, run, climb stairs, and perform various
interactive tasks.
C. Tracked Robots
Example: Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
Description: Robots that use continuous tracks instead of wheels, providing enhanced stability
and mobility over uneven surfaces.
Applications: Used in military applications, bomb disposal, and exploration of hazardous
environments.
Specific Model: Talon by QinetiQ, used for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and
reconnaissance in dangerous areas.
Example: Rescue Robots
Description: Designed for search and rescue operations in disaster zones, these robots can
navigate rubble and other obstacles.
Applications: Used in emergency situations to locate and assist victims.
Specific Model: PackBot by iRobot, which has been used in various disaster response scenarios.
3. Hybrid Robots
Example: Transformable Robots
Description: Robots that can switch between different modes of mobility, such as walking and
rolling, to adapt to varying environments.
Applications: Used in exploration and search and rescue missions where versatile mobility is
required.
Specific Model: MorpHex by Kåre Halvorsen, which can transform from a spherical rolling
robot to a hexapod walker.
4. Aerial Robots
Example: Drones (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or UAVs)
Description: Robots capable of flight, controlled remotely or autonomously, often equipped with
cameras and sensors.
Applications: Used in aerial photography, surveillance, agriculture, and delivery services.
Specific Model: DJI Phantom, widely used for photography and videography due to its stability
and high-quality camera.
5. Underwater Robots
Example: Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
Description: Robots designed to operate underwater, capable of navigating and performing tasks
autonomously.
Applications: Used in oceanographic research, underwater inspection, and environmental
monitoring.
Specific Model: Bluefin-21 by Bluefin Robotics, used for mapping the ocean floor and
conducting underwater surveys.
1. Cartesian configuration
These robots have three linear axes (X, Y, and Z), allowing movement in a straight line in three-
dimensional space. Applications: Used for CNC machines, 3D printing, and pick-and-place
operations.
Examples:
CNC Routers: Used for precise cutting, milling, and drilling.
3D Printers: Such as the Ultimaker 3, which builds objects layer by layer
2. Cylindrical Robots:
Cylindrical robots have a rotary joint (revolute joint) at the base and a prismatic
joint for vertical movement.
They form a cylindrical workspace.
Common applications include arc welding, painting, and handling cylindrical objects
These robots have at least one rotary joint at the base and at least one prismatic (linear)
joint to connect the links. The workspace is cylindrical in shape.
Applications: Used in assembly operations, handling at machine tools, and spot welding.
These robots have a spherical coordinate system, with a rotational joint around a vertical
axis, a rotational joint around a horizontal axis, and a radial joint that controls the
distance from the base.
They can cover a wide range of motion within a spherical work envelope.
4. Articulated Robots:
These robots have a jointed arm structure, similar to the human arm, with rotational joints
that allow for a high degree of flexibility and dexterity.
They typically have between 4 to 6 axes of rotation, allowing them to reach and
manipulate objects in complex ways.
Examples: Industrial robotic arms used in a wide range of applications, such as assembly,
welding, and material handling.
Components of Robot
1. Manipulator:
A robot's manipulator is similar to the human arm, consisting of multiple joints and links.
It provides flexibility and movement to the robot, allowing it to perform various tasks.
Just as the human arm can bend and reach, the manipulator's joints and links enable the
robot to reach different positions and orientations.
2. End effector:
The end effector is located at the free end of the robot's manipulator.
It serves a function similar to the human hand and fingers, allowing the robot to interact
with its environment.
The end effector performs tasks like gripping, picking up objects, or performing precise
actions.
3. Locomotion Device:
While humans rely on muscles for arm and hand movement, robots use motors for
locomotion.
These motors provide the power needed for the robot's movement, and they come in
various types, including electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic.
The choice of motor type depends on the robot's design and intended application.
4. Controller:
The controller in a robot is analogous to the human brain, directing its actions.
It consists of both hardware and software components that enable the robot to carry out
assigned tasks.
The controller coordinates and controls the movements of the manipulator, end effector,
and other components, making the robot perform specific functions.
5. Sensors:
They provide data and feedback to the robot's controller, allowing it to perceive its
environment.
Sensors measure various quantities such as position, velocity, force, torque, proximity,
temperature, and more.
This sensory input enables the robot to make informed decisions and adapt to changing
conditions while executing tasks.
Humanoid Robots
Humanoid robots are robots that resemble and act like humans. Typically engineered to imitate
authentic human expressions, interactions and movements, these robots are often outfitted with
an array of cameras, sensors and, more recently, AI and machine learning technologies.
Examples in use
Hospitality: Some humanoid robots, like Kime, are pouring and serving customer drinks and
snacks at self-contained kiosks in Spain. Some are even working as hotel concierges and in other
customer-facing roles.
Education: Humanoid Robots Nao and Pepper are working with students in educational settings,
creating content and teaching programming.
Healthcare: Other humanoid robots are providing services in healthcare settings, like
communicating patient information and measuring vital signs.
SOPHIA
Sophia is a social humanoid robot developed by the Hong Kong-based company Hanson
Robotics. In October 2017, Sophia was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship, becoming the first
robot to receive legal personhood in any country. Hanson has said that he designed Sophia to be
a suitable companion for the elderly at nursing homes, to help crowds at large events or parks, or
to serve in customer service, therapy, and educational applicationsA computer vision algorithm
processes input from cameras within Sophia's eyes, giving Sophia visual information on its
surroundings. It can follow faces, sustain eye contact, and recognize individuals. It can process
speech and have conversations using a natural language subsystemCNBC has commented on
Sophia's "lifelike" skin and its ability to emulate more than 60 facial expressions. [30] Sophia's
dialogue is generated via a decision tree, and is uniquely integrated with these outputs
START UPS
ZIPLINE
The Ministry of Health has commissioned the Zipline plant to distribute blood products and
vaccines to hospitals in Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties using drones. in February 2023.
Drones technology seeks to slash the delivery time of life-saving medical products to the
remotest places from five hours to an average of 45 minutes, thus reducing maternal deaths and
incidences of malaria-induced anaemia.
Zipline adopts a centralized stock approach and implements on-demand delivery meaning that
health facilities need not store blood resulting in less waste as blood spoils quickly. The firm has
partnered with the Kenya National Blood Transfusion Services and the Kisumu Regional Blood
Transfusion Center to stock and deliver the product quickly and efficiently. The National
Vaccines and Immunization Program (NVIP) approved the distribution of vaccines as well as
malaria tests and treatment kits, which underscores the importance of leveraging technology in
curbing malaria mortality rates in the LREB region. Since its inception, it has successfully made
over 6,300 commercial deliveries of life-saving medical supplies to over 400 health facilities. As
of may 24, 2024
The deliveries to these health facilities have included medicines such as oxytocin – a drug used
to control bleeding during childbirth, snake antivenom and anti-rabies vials used in emergency
cases of snake and dog bites respectively.
Further, Kisumu County Livestock Department relies on Zipline drones to deliver livestock
semen to veterinarians in distant places for use in artificial insemination to facilitate farmers’
access to improved breeds and boost animal production.
Health workers will place orders by text message or call and promptly receive their deliveries
exactly when and where they need them in approximately 30 minutes. automated drones will
deliver HIV commodities, including self-test kits, PrEP, treatment, educational materials, and
other related supplies to community distribution points frequented by young people. These areas
include night clubs, sports fields, schools, and events – allowing youth to manage their health
needs outside of a traditional clinical setting
Kenya has the third largest HIV epidemic in the world, with an estimated 1.3 to 1.7 million
people living with HIV as of 2020. The Elton John AIDS Foundation and Zipline, the global
leader in instant logistics and deliveries, and Kisumu County Government partnered to deliver
life-saving medical supplies to communities who are living with or at risk of HIV, and who live
in remote areas of the country. Once enrolled in the program, adolescents and young adults can
place orders via community health workers, and peer educators supported by the project.
A calculator is not considered a robot. While both calculators and robots involve computing and
automation to some extent, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
1. **Functionality**:
- A calculator performs mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication,
and division. Advanced calculators can handle more complex functions like trigonometry,
logarithms, and statistical calculations.
- It processes input provided by a human user and displays the result of the computation.
2. **Operation**:
- Calculators operate based on predefined algorithms and lack the ability to perform tasks
beyond their programmed functions.
- They do not interact with their physical environment or perform any form of physical
manipulation.
3. **Autonomy**:
- Calculators are not autonomous. They require direct user input to function and do not make
independent decisions or take actions based on their own assessment.
1. **Functionality**:
- Robots can perform a wide range of tasks, often involving physical actions such as moving,
lifting, manipulating objects, and interacting with their environment.
- Robots can be programmed to perform specific tasks or can use artificial intelligence to learn
and adapt their actions.
2. **Operation**:
- Robots often incorporate sensors, actuators, and control systems to perceive their
environment and execute tasks.
- They can operate autonomously or semi-autonomously, making decisions based on sensor
input and programmed instructions.
3. **Autonomy**:
- Many robots can operate with a degree of autonomy, meaning they can perform tasks without
continuous human intervention. They can process information from their environment, make
decisions, and take actions accordingly.
3. **Autonomy**:
- Calculators do not have autonomy; they require human input for each calculation.
- Robots can have varying degrees of autonomy, from remote-controlled to fully autonomous
systems capable of making decisions based on sensor data and pre-programmed algorithms.
### Conclusion
While calculators and robots both involve aspects of automation and computing, they are
fundamentally different in terms of functionality, interaction with the environment, and
autonomy. A calculator is a specialized tool for performing mathematical computations, whereas
a robot is a versatile machine designed to perform a wide range of tasks, often involving physical
actions and environmental interaction. Therefore, a calculator is not considered a robot.
Robots are distinguished from other machines by several key characteristics that involve
autonomy, interaction with the environment, programmability, and versatility. Here’s a detailed
look at what sets robots apart from other machines:
1. **Autonomy**
- **Definition**: Robots have the capability to perform tasks with varying degrees of
independence from human control.
- **Comparison**: Unlike many other machines that require continuous human intervention,
robots can operate autonomously, making decisions based on pre-programmed instructions or
real-time data.
3. **Programmability**
- **Definition**: Robots can be programmed to perform a wide variety of tasks and can be
reprogrammed for new tasks.
- **Comparison**: Many traditional machines are designed for a specific function and lack the
flexibility to be easily reprogrammed for different tasks. For instance, a toaster can only toast
bread.
### Summary
Robots are distinct from other machines primarily due to their autonomy, sensory perception,
programmability, interaction with the environment, and adaptability. These features enable
robots to perform a wide range of tasks independently, adapt to new tasks and environments, and
interact dynamically with their surroundings, making them versatile and powerful tools in
various applications. Other machines, while efficient at their specific tasks, generally lack this
level of flexibility and intelligence.