A sneak peek into the field of Robotics

Previously the notion of going to the space, locating new planets and galaxies, or discovering new underwater species in the deepest pits of the ocean seemed far-fetched and unrealistic. But many such things on which scientists and experts have been musing on are now possible within fraction of seconds. With technological progress, Robotics have been outperforming humans assisting them in the space as well as underwater. They have been tapering off the burden of many tasks so that engineers can work on new developments. From everyday home cleaning to serving in restaurants by replacing waiters, these robots have both software and hardware applications embedded in them.

What is Robotics?

The term Robotics is an amalgamation of both engineering and computer science, where robots (machines) are trained to perform mundane and automated tasks for humans. It involves the designing, developing and operating of robots. There are five types of robots, each given different level of mechanical and intellectual capabilities. Let’s have a look at them:

1. Pre-Programmed Robots

These robots are sturdy and designed for some specific pre-defined tasks that humans cannot perform easily e.g. handling heavy items. Such robots are hardly controlled, guided or supervised by humans. They automatically carry out the activities they are assigned with great precision and efficiency, surpassing physical labor. These machines are quicker and even do monotonous work without exhaustion or altering their behavior, unless there is a technical glitch. One example is of car assembly line where they are responsible for the fixing of a door handle in the car, welding of a bonnet as well as painting or polishing different parts. They greatly reduces the production cost and minimizes human error.

2. Autonomous Robots

These robots are designed to work independently in an open environment. They do not require interference from humans or a mechanist to look after them, rather they just adjust themselves according to their surroundings. As there are sensors lodged inside them, they perceive and make the best decision by taking the right action. One example is of Flymo robotic lawnmower that trims your overgrown lawn.

3. Humanoid Robots

They function like humans and imitate their behavior. Humanoid bots have the ability to perform activities which we do such as running, talking, carry things etc. Examples can be of Actroid and Sophia. These are female bots who mimics human’s facial expressions and gives pre written responses if you ask them something.

4. Augmenting Robots

These robots are multifunctional and very helpful for humans. The main purpose of such robots is to help or improve humans existing abilities or serve as a substitute for their lost capabilities. Such robots are also called VR robots which makes human stronger and efficient by replicating their abilities and helping them to complete their tasks quickly. Augmenting robots is useful in medical field for example if a person’s leg or arm gets amputated it can be replaced by prosthetic machines or devices also known as artificial limbs.

5. Tele operated Robots

To some extent, these robots act independently and have some level of autonomy to work remotely in dangerous terrain or in extreme geographical circumstances. Having wireless feature, engineers can control them from a safe distance. For example, in disaster struck areas such robots can help to prevent gas leakages by turning off the valves. They are monitored by humans via screens and have special cameras embedded in them to give a better picture of the site. Such robots are given instructions by humans from command centers. These robots can also work underwater to fix a leakage in pipes in the form of submarines.

Applications of Robotics

1. Logistics and manufacturing

In terms of machines and industrial work, manufacturing sector can be called the pioneer for using robots. These robots work side by side with the workforce assisting them is product testing or in the assembling of materials and equipment. Similarly, in logistics robots play a major role in moving or transporting goods and products from one place to another in warehouses. From packaging, shipping, handling products, replenishing items on shelves to keeping quality checks these robots are time saving machines and ensures maximum efficiency is achieved. Many companies are now using robots for the speedy delivery of your parcel, making sure they reach right at your door steps.

2. Household Chores Robots

The daily household activities such as washing dishes or laundry, trimming plants, watering the garden, cleaning your pool or house all is done by robots now. You can now relax and watch your favorite shows on Netflix rather than hiring household help to do your chores.

3. Healthcare and Travel Robots

There are patients that require surgeries or physical therapy and visit medical practitioners or doctors for treatments. Many such professionals now take help from robots to recover their patients from injuries and illnesses. Robots are also replacing nurses by doing tasks such as bringing medicines and cleaning rooms etc. Pharmaceutical companies use them to do tests and trials. In travel sector, robots in the form of self-driving cars and vehicles are now in demand and renowned companies such as Volkswagen and Tesla are all drudging on it.

Robots are now everywhere, flabbergasting us with their human like features. They will rule in the upcoming decades by saving our time and money, ensuring employee safety and by enhancing productivity, so people and companies must learn to live and work with them.