Week 1 Flashcards
Robot definition
What defines a robot, and how does it differ from a tool?
A robot is a machine tool that performs directed actions via energy transformation. Unlike simple tools, robots can have autonomy, interact with humans, and work in structured or unstructured environments.
What is the origin of the word ‘robot’?
The term originates from the Czech word ‘robota,’ meaning ‘forced labor’ or ‘servitude,’ indicating its historical association with human-like automated tasks.
What was the first robot used in industrial applications?
The Unimate, introduced in 1954 and first used in a General Motors factory in 1959, marked the beginning of robots in industry.
Name established and emerging sectors where robots are utilized.
Established: Manufacturing, logistics, marine energy, surgery. Emerging: Space, transport, wearables/prosthetics, agriculture, consumer products, assisted living.
What are key characteristics of robotic sensors, and name common types?
Characteristics include range, sensitivity, accuracy, and precision. Common sensors are rotation, translation (self-motion), force, range, LIDAR, and vision.
List the different types of actuation technologies and a unique advantage of each.
Hydraulic: high force. Pneumatic: smooth motion. Electric: precision. Exotic: specialized applications (e.g., soft robotics).
What distinguishes a mechatronic system from a robotic system?
A mechatronic system is electro-mechanical and controlled, while a robotic system also has autonomy, allowing it to function in unstructured environments.
What is feedback control in robotics, and why is it important?
Feedback control involves adjusting actions based on real-time sensor data to maintain desired outcomes, essential for precision and stability in robotic motion.
What is the goal of path planning in robotics?
To determine a route from the robot’s current position to a target, often using potential fields, gradient descent, or cell-based methods.
What does SLAM stand for, and why is it essential in mobile robotics?
SLAM stands for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping. It’s crucial for determining a robot’s position while mapping unknown environments, compensating for sensor and actuator noise.
How does trajectory planning differ from path planning?
Path planning focuses on spatial navigation, while trajectory planning includes time constraints (velocity, acceleration) to ensure smooth movement.
