Robotics: An Introduction to Robots and the Field of Robotics

Explore the world of robotics, encompassing mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and AI. This guide defines robotics and robots, tracing their history from the first industrial robot, the Unimate, to modern advancements. Learn about the multidisciplinary nature of this fascinating field and the capabilities of programmable machines.

Robotics Interview Questions and Answers

What is Robotics?

Question 1: What is Robotics?

Robotics is a multidisciplinary field encompassing mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence. It focuses on designing, constructing, operating, and applying robots—programmable machines capable of carrying out complex tasks automatically.

What is a Robot?

Question 2: What is a Robot?

A robot is a programmable machine designed to perform tasks automatically. Robots can be designed to mimic human actions or be simple machines performing specific functions. They may be guided by internal programming or external controls.

First Industrial Robot

Question 3: First Industrial Robot

The Unimate, created by George Devol in 1950 and first used in 1954, is widely considered the first industrial robot.

Laws of Robotics

Question 4: Laws of Robotics (Asimov's Laws)

Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics are:

  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.

Asimov later added a Zeroth Law:

  1. A robot may not harm humanity, or, through inaction, allow humanity to come to harm.

Applications of Robotics

Question 5: Applications of Robotics

Robots are used across many industries:

  • Military
  • Manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Domestic use
  • Research and exploration

Humanoid Robots

Question 6: Humanoid Robots

Humanoid robots are designed to resemble the human form. Types include androids (resembling males) and gynoids (resembling females). Sophia is a well-known example of a humanoid robot.

Basic Aspects of Robotics

Question 7: Basic Aspects of Robotics

Building a robot involves:

  • Electrical/Electronic Components: Power supplies, sensors, microcontrollers.
  • Mechanical Components: The robot's physical structure.
  • Software/Programming: Instructions that control the robot's behavior.

Robot Components

Question 8: Components of a Robot

Essential components:

  • Power Supply: Provides energy (batteries, hydraulics, pneumatics).
  • Actuators: Convert energy into motion (motors).
  • Sensors: Provide feedback about the environment.
  • Controller: The "brain" of the robot; processes sensor data and controls actuators.

Industrial Use of Robots

Question 9: Why Robots in Industry?

Robots are used in industry for:

  • Increased precision and efficiency.
  • 24/7 operation (continuous production).
  • Performing hazardous tasks.
  • Cost-effectiveness.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Robotics

Question 10: AI in Robotics

AI enhances robots by enabling capabilities such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. AI allows robots to adapt to changing environments and perform more complex tasks.

Sensors in Robotics

Question 11: Types of Sensors in Robotics

Various sensors are used:

  • Light Sensors: Detect light intensity (photoresistors, photodiodes).
  • Sound Sensors: Detect sound (microphones).
  • Temperature Sensors: Measure temperature.
  • Proximity Sensors: Detect nearby objects (infrared, ultrasonic).
  • Acceleration Sensors: Measure acceleration and tilt (accelerometers).
  • Navigation Sensors: Determine location (GPS, compass).

Robot Locomotion

Question 12: Robot Locomotion

Methods of robot movement:

  • Walking
  • Running
  • Rolling
  • Flying
  • Swimming
  • Climbing
  • Hybrid locomotion

Autonomous Robots

Question 13: Autonomous Robots

Autonomous robots can operate independently without continuous human control. They use sensors and AI to make decisions and adapt to their environment.

Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)

Question 14: Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)

HRI is the study of how humans and robots interact. It involves designing robots that are safe, intuitive, and effective to work with.

Sending Sensor Data to Controllers

Question 15: Sending Sensor Data to Controllers

Sensor data is transmitted to the robot controller using electrical signals. The specific method depends on the sensor and controller types.

Pneumatic Systems

Question 16: Pneumatic Systems

Pneumatic systems use compressed air to power robot actuators. They are often used in industrial settings.

Degrees of Freedom

Question 18: Degrees of Freedom

Degrees of freedom (DOF) in robotics refers to the number of independent movements a robot can make. Each joint typically contributes one DOF. The number of degrees of freedom determines the robot's range of motion and its ability to perform tasks.

PROLOG

Question 19: PROLOG in AI

PROLOG (PROgramming in LOGic) is a declarative programming language well-suited for artificial intelligence applications due to its logical reasoning capabilities.

LISP

Question 20: LISP

LISP (LISt Processor) is a symbolic programming language used in AI, known for its ability to manipulate symbolic data and its use of list structures.

Robot Axes of Movement

Question 21: Robot Axes of Movement

Common axes of movement in robots include X-Y-Z coordinates, elbow rotation, and wrist rotation.

Numerical Control

Question 22: Numerical Control

Numerical control (NC) uses computer-generated instructions to automate machine tools, greatly increasing precision and efficiency.

Servo-Controlled Robots

Question 23: Servo-Controlled Robots

Servo-controlled robots use servo motors, providing precise control over movement and speed. They can adjust speed and position precisely throughout their movements.

Major Users of Industrial Robots

Question 24: Major Users of Industrial Robots

The automotive industry is a significant user of industrial robots.

Actuators

Question 25: Actuators

Actuators are the components that convert energy into motion, enabling robots to move. Common actuators include electric motors, hydraulic actuators, and pneumatic actuators.

Industrial Robot Motors

Question 26: Motors in Industrial Robots

Common motors used in industrial robots:

  • Servo Motors
  • Stepper Motors
  • DC (Direct Current) and AC (Alternating Current) Motors

Continuous-Path Control

Question 27: Continuous-Path Control

Continuous-path control allows a robot to follow a complex, non-linear path smoothly and precisely. This is particularly useful for tasks like welding or painting.

LISP Example

Question 28: LISP Example

Adding two numbers in LISP:

LISP Code

(+ 5 3)  ; Output: 8

LISP Function: copy-list

Question 29: `copy-list` Function in LISP

The (copy-list <list>) function in LISP creates a copy of a given list.

Future of Robotics

Question 30: Future of Robotics

The future of robotics likely involves increasing integration with AI, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), leading to more sophisticated and capable robots.

Industrial Robot Types

Question 31: Types of Industrial Robots

Various types of industrial robots exist, each suited for specific tasks:

  • Cartesian: Three linear axes of motion.
  • Cylindrical: One rotational and one linear axis.
  • Spherical (Polar): Two rotational and one linear axis.
  • SCARA: Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm; two parallel rotational axes.
  • Articulated: Multiple rotary joints, offering a wide range of motion.
  • Delta: Parallel-link robot with three arms.

Microcontrollers

Question 32: Microcontrollers in Robotics

A microcontroller is a small computer on a single integrated circuit. It acts as the "brain" of a robot, controlling its actions based on sensor input and programmed instructions.