INTRODUCTION TO BASIC ROBOTICS

ROBOTICS AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Robotics is a multidisciplinary field that integrates computer science, engineering, and design to
develop machines (robots) capable of performing tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously.
The word “ROBOT” comes from the old Church Slavonic word, “ROBOTA”, meaning “servitude,”
“forced labor” or “drudgery”.

APPLICATIONS OF ROBOTICS
1. Manufacturing: Robots are widely used in assembly lines for tasks like welding,
painting, and assembling parts. Industrial robots can work faster and more precisely than
humans.
2. Healthcare: Surgical robots assist in complex surgeries by providing greater precision.
Robots also help with patient care, rehabilitation, and medication distribution.
3. Exploration: Robots are deployed in hazardous environments where human presence
is not possible, such as deep-sea exploration and space missions (e.g., Mars rovers).
4. Military and Defense: Robots assist with bomb disposal, reconnaissance, and other
military applications.
5. Service Robots: Robots that interact with humans in various settings, such as robotic
vacuum cleaners (e.g., Roomba) and humanoid robots like Pepper and Sophia.
6. Agriculture: Robots perform tasks like planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops,
enhancing efficiency in agricultural processes.

ROBOTICS IN EDUCATION
Robotics in education has become increasingly popular due to its ability to engage students and
enhance learning across various subjects. Here are some key applications:
1. Hands-On Learning: Robotics provides a practical approach to understanding complex
concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students can
build and program robots, applying theoretical knowledge in a tangible way.
2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Working with robotics encourage students to
think critically and solve problems. They learn to troubleshoot issues, modify designs,
and optimize performance, fostering innovative thinking.
3. Collaboration and Teamwork: Many robotics projects require teamwork, helping
students develop communication and collaboration skills. Working in groups teaches
them to share ideas and integrate diverse perspectives.
4. Programming Skills: Robotics often involves coding, allowing students to learn
programming languages in a hands-on context. This skill is increasingly valuable in a
technology-driven world.
5. Engagement and Motivation: The interactive nature of robotics captures students’
interest and motivates them to explore engineering and technology fields. It can make
learning fun and exciting.
6. Special Needs Education: Robotics can be adapted to support students with special
needs, providing personalized learning experiences that cater to various abilities and
learning styles.
7. Competitions and Events: Robotics competitions, like FIRST Robotics or VEX
Robotics, encourage students to apply their skills in a competitive setting, promoting a
spirit of innovation and teamwork.
8. Career Exploration: Exposure to robotics can spark interest in future careers in
engineering, computer science, and related fields, helping students see the relevance of
their education.

Key Advantages of Robots:

 Precision: Robots can perform highly precise tasks that humans may find difficult or
impossible.
 Efficiency: Robots can work 24/7 without fatigue, increasing productivity.
 Safety: Robots can be used in dangerous environments, minimizing risks to human life.
 Cost-effectiveness: Although initial costs can be high, robots often reduce long-term
costs due to increased efficiency and reduced labor needs.
HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF ROBOTICS
 Early Beginnings:
o Leonardo da Vinci (1495): Designed a mechanical knight, which is considered
one of the earliest attempts at robotics.
o Jacques de Vaucanson (1738): Created an automated mechanical duck that
could simulate basic biological functions.
 The Industrial Revolution: Sparked the development of machines and automation.
o 1961: The first industrial robot, Unimate, was installed in a General Motors
assembly line, marking the birth of industrial robotics.
 Significant Milestones:
o 1970s: Advancements in AI began influencing robotics. The Stanford Arm,
developed by Victor Scheinman, was a breakthrough in robotic manipulation.
o 1996: NASA’s Mars Rover Sojourner landed on Mars, showcasing robotic
exploration capabilities.
o 2000s: The rise of humanoid robots like Honda’s ASIMO and the development of
self-driving vehicles.
o Present Day: Robots with integrated AI, machine learning, and automation play
a crucial role in various fields, from healthcare to logistics.

BASIC COMPONENTS OF ROBOTS

Introduction to Sensors, Actuators, and Controllers
1. Sensors: Devices that gather information from the robot’s surroundings and convert it
into data that the robot can process. They are the robot’s “eyes and ears.”
Examples:
o Ultrasonic Sensors: Measure distance using sound waves, often used for
obstacle avoidance.
o Infrared Sensors: Detect heat or motion, useful in navigation.
o Cameras: Provide vision for tasks like object recognition.
o Touch Sensors: Enable robots to detect physical contact.
2. Actuators: Components that enable the robot to move or interact with its environment.
They convert electrical signals into mechanical movement. Examples:
o Motors: Drive wheels, arms, or joints in a robot.
o Servos: Provide precise control over angular positions, common in robotic arms.
o Hydraulic and Pneumatic Actuators: Use fluid or air pressure to create motion,
often in larger robots.
3. Controllers: The “brain” of the robot, where data from sensors is processed and
decisions are made. Controllers execute the software algorithms that tell the robot what
to do. Examples:
o Microcontrollers: Small, integrated circuits (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) that
handle basic processing tasks.
o Central Processing Units (CPUs): Found in more advanced robots, where
complex tasks like AI-based decision-making are performed.

Overview of Different Types of Robots

Robots can be classified into various types based on their function and purpose:
1. Industrial Robots
o Used in manufacturing processes for tasks like assembly, welding, and painting.
o Examples: ABB’s IRB series robots, FANUC robots.
2. Service Robots
o Assist humans in everyday tasks or in specialized environments (e.g., hospitals,
hotels).
o Examples: Robotic vacuum cleaners, surgical robots, delivery robots.
3. Humanoid Robots
o Robots designed to resemble and mimic human appearance and behavior.
o Examples: ASIMO by Honda, Pepper by SoftBank Robotics. Sophia by Hanson
Robotics
 4. Autonomous Robots
o Operate independently without human intervention, making decisions based on
input from sensors and algorithms.
o Examples: Self-driving cars, drones.
5. Collaborative Robots (Cobots)
o Designed to work alongside humans safely, often in industrial environments.
o Examples: Universal Robots’ collaborative robotic arms.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF ROBOTICS

The building blocks of robotics consist of key electrical and mechanical components that allow
robots to sense, move, and think. These components are fundamental for building and
programming a functioning robot.

A. Understanding Basic Electrical Components

In robotics, electrical components play a vital role in powering the robot, controlling its
movement, and processing information. The core components include motors, batteries,
sensors, microcontrollers, and various other electronic circuits.
1. Motors
o Definition: Motors are devices that convert electrical energy into mechanical
energy, allowing the robot to move.
o Types of Motors:
 DC Motors:
 Simple and common type of motor.
 Converts direct current (DC) electrical energy into mechanical
rotation.
 Used to drive wheels, fans, or propellers in robots.
 Servo Motors:
 A specialized motor capable of precise position control.
 Commonly used in robotic arms or jointed robots where accurate
movement is necessary.
 Includes a feedback mechanism to control movement and
positioning.
 Stepper Motors:
 A motor that moves in discrete steps, allowing for precise control
over rotation.
 Widely used in CNC machines, 3D printers, and robotics
applications where accuracy is important.
o Applications:
 Wheeled Robots: DC motors can drive wheels, enabling movement.
 Robotic Arms: Servo motors are used for controlling arm positions.
 Drones: Motors power the propellers for flight.
2. Batteries
o Definition: Batteries store and supply electrical energy to the robot's
components.
o Types of Batteries:
 Lithium-Ion (Li-ion):
 High energy density, rechargeable, and lightweight.
 Often used in mobile robots, drones, and small devices.
 Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH):
 Rechargeable and widely used in consumer electronics.
 Less energy-dense compared to Li-ion but commonly found in
hobby robotics kits.
 Lead-Acid Batteries:
 Heavier and less energy-efficient but inexpensive.
 Used in large robots or systems that require more power.
o Importance of Batteries:
  Batteries provide continuous power to all robot components, from sensors
and controllers to motors.
 Proper battery management (charging and discharging) is critical for robot
longevity and efficiency.
3. Circuits and Electrical Components
o Circuits: These are pathways through which electricity flows. A robot’s electrical
circuit connects the power source (battery), motors, sensors, and controllers.
o Key Circuit Components:
 Resistors: Control the flow of electric current in the circuit, preventing
damage to components.
 Capacitors: Store and release electrical energy. Used for power supply
stabilization.
 Diodes: Ensure current flows in one direction, protecting sensitive
components.
 Transistors: Act as switches or amplifiers in the circuit, used to control
larger currents.
o Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs): In advanced robots, PCBs are used to connect
all the electronic components neatly and efficiently, ensuring reliability and
reducing wiring complexity.
4. Microcontrollers:
o Definition: A microcontroller is a small computer on a single integrated circuit
that controls the robot’s operations.
o Common Microcontrollers:
 Arduino: A popular open-source platform ideal for beginners. Arduino
microcontrollers are widely used in educational robotics projects.
 Raspberry Pi: A more powerful single-board computer that can run full
operating systems like Linux, making it ideal for more complex robotics
projects that require more processing power.
o Functions:
 Control motors and actuators based on sensor input.
 Run programs that dictate the robot’s behavior (e.g., navigation
algorithms, object recognition).
 Communicate with external devices (cameras, GPS, wireless modules).
o Example Applications:
 An Arduino-based robot can use sensors to detect and avoid obstacles.
 Raspberry Pi-based robots can run AI algorithms for facial recognition or
voice control.

B. Introduction to Robotics Kits

Robotics kits offer an accessible and modular way to learn about robotics, providing pre-built
components that can be assembled and programmed by students and hobbyists. These kits
include motors, sensors, microcontrollers, and building parts, simplifying the process of building
functional robots.

1. LEGO Mindstorms
o Overview: LEGO Mindstorms is one of the most popular educational robotics kits
designed to teach kids and beginners the basics of robotics and programming.
o Key Components:
 EV3 Brick: The programmable controller, which is the "brain" of the robot.
 Motors and Sensors:
 Large and Medium Motors: These drive wheels, robotic arms, or
other moving parts.
 Touch Sensor: Detects when the robot touches an object.
 Ultrasonic Sensor: Measures the distance to objects, allowing
the robot to avoid obstacles.
  Gyro Sensor: Measures the robot’s orientation, allowing precise
control of turning and balancing.
 Color Sensor: Detects colors and can be used for line-following
applications.
o Programming:
 LEGO Mindstorms uses a graphical programming language that allows
users to drag and drop blocks to create code, making it beginner-friendly.
 It can also be programmed using more advanced languages like Python
and C++.
o Applications:
 Line-following robots, obstacle avoidance, robotic arms, and more.
 Frequently used in robotics competitions and classroom projects.

2. VEX Robotics
o Overview: VEX Robotics offers more advanced kits, suitable for educational
institutions, competitions, and hobbyists. These kits are designed to teach more
complex concepts and provide a pathway to higher-level robotics competitions.
o Key Components:
 VEX Cortex Microcontroller: The brain of the VEX robot, controlling all
the motors and sensors.
 Motors: Various types of motors to control robot movement, arms, or
gripping mechanisms.
 Sensors:
 Bumper Switch: Detects collisions with objects.
 Potentiometers: Measure angular position.
 Optical Shaft Encoders: Measure the number of rotations of a
motor shaft, useful for tracking robot movement.
 Building Components: Modular pieces that allow users to create
complex robots with wheels, arms, and manipulators.
o Programming:
 RobotC: A C-based programming language used to program VEX robots,
suitable for advanced students.
 VEXcode: A simplified drag-and-drop coding interface for beginners.
o Applications:
 VEX Robotics kits are widely used in educational competitions like the
VEX Robotics Competition (VRC), which challenges students to build
and program robots to solve specific tasks in a competitive environment.
 VEX kits allow students to experiment with real-world engineering and
programming concepts, such as drivetrain designs, manipulator systems,
and sensor integration.

3. Arduino-based Kits:
o Overview: Arduino kits are a more flexible and affordable option for beginners
and hobbyists interested in building custom robots. These kits typically include an
Arduino microcontroller, motors, sensors, and breadboards for wiring.
o Key Components:
 Arduino Board: The microcontroller that runs code and controls the
robot.
 Breadboards and Jumper Wires: Used to prototype circuits and connect
components.
 Motors, Sensors, and LEDs: Basic components for creating simple
robots, such as motorized cars or light-following robots.
o Programming:
 Arduino uses a simplified version of C++ for programming. The open-
source nature of Arduino allows for a wide variety of projects and
community support.
  The Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is easy to use
and beginner-friendly.
o Applications:
 Arduino-based robots can range from simple line-following robots to more
complex designs like robotic arms, autonomous vehicles, and even
drones.
 Arduino is often used in DIY robotics projects, competitions, and
research.