Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Understand what is meant by robotics
- Describe the characteristics of a robot including a mechanical structure or framework, electrical components (sensors, microprocessors and actuators) and programmability
- Explain the difference between dumb robots and smart robots
- Describe the roles that robots can perform and the advantages and disadvantages of their use
- Apply knowledge of robotics to scenarios including industry, transport, agriculture, medicine, domestic and entertainment
- Understand ethical and legal issues raised by robotics such as accountability, safety, algorithmic bias and legal liability
Key Terms
- Robotics- a branch of computer science that brings together the design, construction and operation of robots.
- Robot- a machine that carries out work by itself by following a set of programmed rules.
- Dumb robot- a robot that simply repeats the same programmed instructions over and over again, with no AI involved (e.g. car assembly line).
- Smart robot- a robot trained to learn, adapt and carry out progressively more complex tasks (e.g. a robot designed to beat a human at chess or assist surgeons).
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)- a machine or application which carries out a task that requires some degree of intelligence when carried out by a human being.
- Machine Learning- a type of AI where systems are trained to learn from data and improve over time without being explicitly programmed.
- Controller- the 'brain' of a robot that determines the action to be taken to perform a certain task, relying on data sent from sensors or cameras.
- End effector- different attachments on a robot that allow it to carry out specific tasks such as welding, spraying, cutting or lifting.
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)- a drone that is either remotely controlled or totally autonomous using embedded systems.
- LiDaR (Light Detection and Ranging)- a system used by autonomous trains and cars that uses lasers to build up a 3D image of surroundings.
- Phenotyping- the process of observing the physical characteristics of a plant in order to assess its health and growth.
- Microbots- microscopic mechanical components including a microprocessor used to localise a drug or therapy to a target site, causing less damage to surrounding tissue.
- Prosthetic limb- a mini robot (bionic skin and neural implants) that interfaces with the human nervous system to allow better control of an artificial limb.
- Independent robot- a robot with no direct human control; it is autonomous and can replace human activity totally.
- Dependent robot- a robot that has a human interfacing directly with it (via a computer or control panel); it supplements rather than replaces human activity.
- Web crawler (search engine bot)- a software robot that roams the internet scanning websites and categorising them for search purposes.
- Chatbot- a program that pops up on websites and seems to enter some form of conversation with the web user.
What is Robotics?
Roboticsis a branch of computer science that brings together thedesign, construction and operation of robots. The objective of the robotics field is to create intelligent machines that can assist humans in a variety of ways.
Arobotis a machine that carries out work by itself by following a set of programmed rules. Many robots don't possess artificial intelligence since they tend to do repetitive tasks rather than requiring adaptive human characteristics.
Robots vs. Not-Robots
The termroboticsoften gets thrown around in association with AI — butnot all robots are smart. There is a lot of hype around emerging technologies of artificial intelligence and machine learning and what they could mean for the future of robotics and automation. However, there is also a lot of confusion surrounding these terms because they are often used interchangeably.
AI is the broadest concept; machine learning is a subset of AI; robotics is the physical application.
Dumb Robots
Simply repeat the same programmed instructions over and over again —no AI involved.
Example:Car assembly line — a robot that welds the same joint on every car that passes.
Smart Robots
Trained to learn, adapt and carry outprogressively more complex tasks.
Examples:A robot designed to beat a human at chess; assisting surgeons in delicate procedures.
Ethical and Legal Issues
The development of artificial intelligence, including the increased use of machine learning and robotics, raises ethical and legal issues such as:
- Accountability— who is responsible when a robot makes a mistake?
- Safety— ensuring robots do not cause harm to humans.
- Algorithmic bias— AI systems may inherit or amplify biases present in their training data.
- Legal liability— who is legally responsible for damage caused by an autonomous system?
Activity 6.2A: Dumb or Smart?
Difficulty: Easy • Estimated time: 5 minutes
Classify each of the following as either adumb robotor asmart robot:
- A robot on a car assembly line that spray-paints every car body the same way.
- A robot that plays chess and improves its strategy over time.
- A robot vacuum cleaner that learns the layout of your home.
- A robot arm that welds the same joint on every car that passes.
- Dumb robot— it simply repeats the same programmed instructions over and over with no AI.
- Smart robot— it learns and adapts, carrying out progressively more complex tasks.
- Smart robot— it learns the layout and adapts its behaviour.
- Dumb robot— it repeats the same programmed task over and over with no AI.
Check Your Understanding: What is Robotics?
1. Define the term "robotics".
Robotics is a branch of computer science that brings together the design, construction and operation of robots. The objective is to create intelligent machines that can assist humans in a variety of ways.
2. What is a robot?
A robot is a machine that carries out work by itself by following a set of programmed rules.
3. Explain the difference between a dumb robot and a smart robot.
- Dumb robot:Simply repeats the same programmed instructions over and over again with no AI involved (e.g. car assembly line).
- Smart robot:Trained to learn, adapt and carry out progressively more complex tasks (e.g. robot designed to beat a human at chess).
4. Name two ethical or legal issues raised by the use of robotics and AI.
- Accountability— who is responsible when a robot makes a mistake?
- Safety— ensuring robots do not cause harm to humans.
- Algorithmic bias— AI systems may inherit biases from training data.
- Legal liability— who is legally responsible for damage caused by an autonomous system?
Characteristics of a Robot
To be correctly called a robot, machines need to have the followingthree characteristics:
Mechanical Structure
A physical body or framework that can move and interact with the environment. They are made up of many parts (motors, hydraulic pipes, actuators, circuit boards) and can make use of wheels, cogs, pistons, gears to carry out functions such as turning, twisting, moving backwards/forwards, gripping or lifting.
Electrical Components
Sensors, microprocessors and actuators. Sensors (such as light, pressure, temperature, acoustic) allow a robot to recognise its immediate environment and determine things like size, shape or weight of an object, detect if something is hot or cold. All sensor data is sent to a microprocessor or computer.
Programmability
Designed to follow a precise set of instructions. They have a 'brain' known as acontrollerthat determines the action to be taken to perform a certain task (the controller relies on data sent from sensors or cameras). Controllers are programmable to allow the robots to do certain tasks.
End Effectors
Robots can make use ofend effectors— different attachments that allow them to carry out specific tasks such as welding, spraying, cutting or lifting.
Summary Table
| Mechanical Structure | Electrical Components | Programmable |
|---|---|---|
| A physical body that can move and interact with the environment | Sensors, microprocessors and actuators | Designed to follow a precise set of instructions |
Activity 6.2B: Identifying Robot Characteristics
Difficulty: Easy • Estimated time: 5 minutes
A factory robot is designed to spray-paint car bodies. Identify which of the three characteristics of a robot are present in this example and explain your answer.
- Mechanical structure:The robot has a physical arm that can move and hold a spray gun.
- Electrical components:It uses sensors (to detect if a car is present) and a microprocessor (to control the spraying) and actuators (to move the arm).
- Programmable:It follows a precise set of instructions to spray each car body the same way.
Check Your Understanding: Characteristics of a Robot
1. Name the three characteristics that all robots share.
- A mechanical structure or framework
- Electrical components (sensors, microprocessors, actuators)
- Programmability
2. What is the role of the controller in a robot?
The controller is the 'brain' of the robot. It determines the action to be taken to perform a certain task and relies on data sent from sensors or cameras. Controllers are programmable to allow the robots to do certain tasks.
3. What are end effectors and what are they used for?
End effectors are different attachments on a robot that allow it to carry out specific tasks such as welding, spraying, cutting or lifting.
4. How do sensors help a robot?
Sensors allow a robot to recognise its immediate environment and give it the ability to determine things like size, shape or weight of an object, detect if something is hot or cold, and so on. All sensor data is sent to a microprocessor or computer.
Software Robots
Not all robots are physical machines.Software robotsare programs that carry out tasks automatically.
Search Engine Bots / Web Crawlers
These roam the internet scanning websites and categorising them for search purposes.
Chatbots
These are programs that pop up on websites and seem to enter some form of conversation with the web user.
Classification of Physical Robots
| Independent Robots | Dependent Robots |
|---|---|
| Have no direct human control. They are said to beautonomous. Can replace human activity totally (no human interaction is required for the robot to function fully). Example:Autonomous vehicle. | Have a human who is interfacing directly with the robot (human interface may be a computer or a control panel). Can supplement, rather than totally replace, human activity. Example:In a car assembly plant where both humans and robots work together to produce a car. |
Activity 6.2C: Independent or Dependent?
Difficulty: Easy • Estimated time: 5 minutes
Classify each of the following as either anindependent robotor adependent robot:
- A robot vacuum cleaner that cleans a room without any human input.
- A robot arm in a factory that is guided by a human worker when spraying an object.
- A self-driving car.
- A robot in a car assembly plant where both humans and robots work together.
- Independent robot— it is autonomous and requires no human interaction.
- Dependent robot— a human is interfacing directly with the robot.
- Independent robot— it is autonomous and can replace human activity totally.
- Dependent robot— humans and robots work together, so the robot supplements human activity.
Check Your Understanding: Software Robots
1. What is a web crawler and what does it do?
A web crawler (search engine bot) is a software robot that roams the internet scanning websites and categorising them for search purposes.
2. What is a chatbot?
A chatbot is a program that pops up on websites and seems to enter some form of conversation with the web user.
3. Explain the difference between an independent robot and a dependent robot.
- Independent robot:Has no direct human control, is autonomous, and can replace human activity totally.
- Dependent robot:Has a human interfacing directly with it (via a computer or control panel) and supplements rather than totally replaces human activity.
Robots in Industry
Robots are used extensively in industry to help automate a wide variety of tasks, from large-scale to incredibly delicate. Robots are used in industry from heavy lifting work to delicate procedures.
Examples of Industrial Robot Tasks
Heavy lifting
Vehicle bodywork
Spray-painting car bodies
Mechanical cutting, grinding & polishing
Manufacturing microchips
Automated warehouses
Inspection & quality control
Gluing and sealing
Programming Robots
Control of robots is either through embedded microprocessors or directly linked to a computer system. Programming of a robot to do a series of tasks is done in two ways:
1. Sequence of instructions:The robot is programmed with a sequence of instructions which allow it to carry out a series of tasks (e.g. spraying a car body with paint).
2. Manual guidance:A human operator manually carries out a series of tasks. This can be done in two ways:
- The robot arm is guided manually by a worker when spraying an object; each movement of the arm is stored as an instruction on the computer.
- The worker straps sensors to their own arm and sprays the object; each movement is stored as a set of instructions on the computer. Sensors send back information such as position relative to the object and arm rotation.
Once instructions have been saved, each series of tasks can then be carried out by a robot arm automatically. Each instruction will be carried out identically every time, giving a consistent product. Robots are equipped with sensors so they can gather information about their surroundings and prevent them from doing 'stupid things' — for example, stopping a robot spraying a car if no car is present, or stopping the spraying operation if the supply of paint has run out.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Robots are capable of working in conditions that may be hazardous to humans. | Robots can find it difficult to do non-standard tasks (e.g. a windscreen being fitted to a car is cracked). |
| Robots work 24/7 without the need to stop. | Robots can lead to higher unemployment amongst manual labour tasks. |
| Robots are less expensive in the long run since there will be fewer salaries to pay. | Robots are expensive to buy and set up in the first place. |
| Robots are more productive than humans. | There is a risk of deskilling when robots take over certain tasks (e.g. welding and paint spraying). |
| Robots are more consistent (although not necessarily more accurate). | Factories can be moved anywhere in the world where operation costs are lower (leading to unemployment in some countries). |
| Robots are better suited to boring, repetitive tasks than humans (therefore less likely to make mistakes). | |
| There will be less cost in heating and lighting (robots don't need good light or warmth). |
Role of Robots in Industry — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industry | Quality inspector | Advanced vision to inspect products for defects, improving quality control. | May not work on defects that might require human judgement. |
Activity 6.2D: Advantages and Disadvantages in Industry
Difficulty: Medium • Estimated time: 8 minutes
A company uses robots in its factory to manufacture restaurant tables and chairs.
- Give two advantages to company employees of using robots to manufacture tables and chairs. [2]
- Give one disadvantage to the company's owners of using robots to manufacture tables and chairs. [1]
(i) Advantages to employees:
- Employees don't need to lift heavy items.
- Employees can be protected from dangerous tasks.
- Employees can utilise their skills in other tasks.
- Employees don't need to perform repetitive/mundane tasks.
(ii) Disadvantage to owners:
- Expensive to install/purchase/set up.
- High ongoing costs/maintenance costs.
- May deskill the workforce.
- If they malfunction, production may stop.
Check Your Understanding: Robots in Industry
1. Describe two ways in which a robot can be programmed to carry out a series of tasks.
- Sequence of instructions:The robot is programmed with a sequence of instructions which allow it to carry out a series of tasks.
- Manual guidance:A human operator manually carries out the series of tasks (either by guiding the robot arm directly or by wearing sensors that record their movements). Each movement is stored as an instruction on the computer.
2. Give two advantages of using robots in industry.
- Robots are capable of working in conditions that may be hazardous to humans.
- Robots work 24/7 without the need to stop.
- Robots are more consistent and more productive than humans.
- Robots are less expensive in the long run (fewer salaries to pay).
3. Give two disadvantages of using robots in industry.
- Robots can find it difficult to do non-standard tasks.
- Robots can lead to higher unemployment amongst manual labour tasks.
- Robots are expensive to buy and set up in the first place.
- There is a risk of deskilling when robots take over certain tasks.
4. Why might robots find it difficult to do non-standard tasks? Give an example.
Robots are programmed to follow a precise set of instructions. If a situation arises that was not programmed or considered, the robot may not know how to react. For example, if a windscreen being fitted to a car is cracked, a robot may not be able to detect this and adjust its behaviour accordingly — a human would notice and take corrective action.
Robots in Transport
Robotics is being used more and more throughout the transport industry, from partially automated parking to fully autonomous cars and trains. These systems utilise a wide range of sensors to constantly gather and process data and perform physical actions such as changing gear, applying brakes and steering.
Self-parking cars
Adaptive cruise control
Airplane autopilot & self-landing
Autonomous trains
Driverless taxis
Autonomous Cars and Buses
A self-driving car, also known as an autonomous car, driverless car, or robotic car (robo-car), is a car incorporating vehicular automation — a ground vehicle that is capable of sensing its environment and moving safely with little or no human input. Self-driving cars combine a variety of sensors to perceive their surroundings, such as thermographic cameras, radar, sensors, etc.
Autonomous cars use sensors, cameras, actuators and microprocessors to carry out their actions safely. Sensors (radar and ultrasonics) and cameras allow control systems in cars to perform critical functions by sensing dynamic conditions on a road. Microprocessors process data received from cameras and sensors and send signals to actuators to perform physical actions, such as: change gear, apply brakes, turn steering wheel.
Example: Autonomous Car at Traffic Lights
Cameras catch visual data from surroundings, while radar and ultrasonics allow the vehicle to build up a 3D image of its surroundings. Suppose an autonomous car is approaching traffic lights that are showing red.
- First, the control system in the car needs to recognise the road sign and then check its database as to what action to take.
- Since the traffic light shows red, the microprocessor sends signals to actuators to apply brakes and put the gear into 'park'.
- Constant monitoring must take place until the light changes to green.
- When this happens, the microprocessor will again instruct actuators to put the car into first gear, release brakes and operate the throttle (accelerator).
| Advantages of Autonomous Vehicles | Disadvantages of Autonomous Vehicles |
|---|---|
| Safer since human error is removed, leading to fewer accidents. | Very expensive system to set up in the first place (high technology requirements). |
| Better for the environment since vehicles will operate more efficiently. | The ever-present fear of hacking into the vehicle's control system. |
| Reduced traffic congestion (humans cause 'stop and go' traffic known as "the phantom traffic jam"; autonomous vehicles will be better at smoothing out traffic flow). | Security and safety issues (software glitches could be catastrophic; software updates would need to be carefully controlled to avoid potential disasters). |
| Increased lane capacity (research shows autonomous vehicles will increase lane capacity by 100% and increase average speeds by 20%). | The need to make sure the system is well-maintained at all times; cameras need to be kept clean; sensors could fail to function in heavy snowfall or blizzard conditions. |
| Reduced travel times, therefore less commuting time. | Driver and passenger reluctance to use the new technology. |
| Stress-free parking for motorists (the car will find car parking on its own and then self-park). | Reduction in the need for taxis could lead to unemployment. |
Autonomous Trains
Autonomous trains make use of sensors, cameras, actuators and microprocessors. They use a system calledLiDaR(Light Detection and Ranging). LiDaR uses lasers which build up a 3D image of surroundings. Sensors (proximity sensors on train doors) and infrared cameras are used to control the train and maintain safety. The control system in the train makes use ofGPS technology, which allows accurate changes in speed and direction to be calculated. Actuators play a role in controlling the train's speed, braking and opening and closing of train doors.
| Advantages of Autonomous Trains | Disadvantages of Autonomous Trains |
|---|---|
| This improves the punctuality of the trains. | The ever-present fear of hacking into the vehicle's control system. |
| Reduced running costs (fewer staff are required). | System doesn't work well with very busy services (at the moment). |
| Improves safety since human error is removed. | High capital costs and operational costs initially (buying the trains, excessive signalling and control equipment, training staff). |
| Minimises energy consumption since there is better control of speed. | Ensuring passenger behaviour is acceptable particularly during busy times. |
| It is possible to increase the frequency of trains (automated systems allow for shorter times between trains). | Passenger reluctance to use the new technology. |
| It is easier to change train scheduling (e.g. more trains during busier times). | No drivers mean there will be a need for CCTV to monitor railway stations. |
Role of Robots in Transport — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport | Warehouse worker | Efficiency in finding, moving and packing; less reliance on manual labour. | High infrastructure costs and potential safety concerns for human workers sharing the same space. |
Activity 6.2E: Autonomous Vehicles Discussion
Difficulty: Medium • Estimated time: 10 minutes
"Autonomous vehicles will make our roads safer and reduce traffic congestion, but there are still significant concerns."
Discuss this statement. In your answer, givetwo advantagesandtwo disadvantagesof autonomous vehicles.
Advantages:
- Safer since human error is removed, leading to fewer accidents.
- Reduced traffic congestion as autonomous vehicles smooth out traffic flow and reduce 'phantom traffic jams'.
- Increased lane capacity and reduced travel times.
- Stress-free parking for motorists.
Disadvantages:
- Very expensive system to set up in the first place.
- Fear of hacking into the vehicle's control system.
- Software glitches could be catastrophic.
- Cameras need to be kept clean; sensors could fail in heavy snowfall.
- Reduction in the need for taxis could lead to unemployment.
Check Your Understanding: Robots in Transport
1. What is LiDaR and how is it used in autonomous trains?
LiDaR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses lasers which build up a 3D image of surroundings. In autonomous trains, LiDaR is used alongside proximity sensors and infrared cameras to control the train and maintain safety.
2. Describe how an autonomous car reacts when approaching a red traffic light.
- The control system recognises the road sign and checks its database for the appropriate action.
- Since the traffic light shows red, the microprocessor sends signals to actuators to apply brakes and put the gear into 'park'.
- Constant monitoring takes place until the light changes to green.
- When green, the microprocessor instructs actuators to put the car into first gear, release brakes and operate the throttle.
3. Give two advantages of autonomous trains.
- Improves the punctuality of trains.
- Reduced running costs as fewer staff are required.
- Improves safety since human error is removed.
- Minimises energy consumption since there is better control of speed.
4. What is a potential disadvantage of autonomous vehicles related to weather?
Sensors could fail to function in heavy snowfall or blizzard conditions. Radar or ultrasonic signals could be deflected by heavy snow particles, and cameras need to be kept clean so they don't give false results.
Robots in Agriculture
Robots can replace slow, repetitive and dull tasks, allowing farmers to concentrate on improving production yields. There are five key areas where robotics plays a big role:
Harvesting/picking
Weed control
Phenotyping
Seed-planting
Grass cutters
1. Harvesting / Picking of Vegetables and Fruit
Robots can do labour-intensive work; they are accurate and only pick ripe fruit and are much faster at harvesting. Use of robots leads to higher yields and reduces waste. A camera in the vegetable guides an arm to remove fruit from its stalk with no damage.
2. Weed Control
Weed management robots can distinguish between a weed and a crop using AI. Examples of weed control robots are being used to remove weeds between grape vines in vineyards; this saves labour costs and improves vine growth. Weed control robots use GPS tracking to move along rows of vines and remove weeds; a weed removal blade is operated by an actuator under the control of a microprocessor in the robot. A drone (flying robot) is used first to do an aerial view of the vineyard, so that a programmed course of action can be produced, which is then sent to the weed control robot's memory.
3. Phenotyping
Phenotyping is the process of observing the physical characteristics of a plant in order to assess its health and growth. Robots designed to do phenotyping are equipped with sensors and thermal cameras that can create a 3D image of the plant, thus allowing it to be monitored for health and growth. Machine learning is used to recognise any issues with leaves so that the robot can convey this back to the farmer. Robots are more accurate and faster at predicting problems than when done manually.
4. Seed-Planting Drones and Fertiliser Distribution
Drones (flying robots) produce aerial images of crops and land. They allow seed-planting to be done far more accurately. They allow efficient fertiliser-spreading to reduce waste and improve coverage. Drones can be used in cloud seeding where a drone can add silver iodide crystals to a cloud, forcing it to give up its rainwater. Drones use a complex camera system to target seeding and allow fertiliser spraying.
5. Grass Cutters, Weeding, Pruning and Seeding
Robots can be used for grass cutting, weeding and pruning, seeding, fertiliser distribution, harvesting and picking. These tasks are automated to reduce manual labour and increase efficiency.
Role of Robots in Agriculture — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Planting & seeding machine | Precise planting (optimum depths and distances). | High upfront costs, may struggle with uneven terrain and changing weather conditions. |
Activity 6.2F: Robotics in Agriculture
Difficulty: Medium • Estimated time: 8 minutes
Describe how robots can be used inweed controlin a vineyard. Include the role of the drone, GPS and the actuator in your answer.
- A drone (flying robot) is used first to do an aerial view of the vineyard, so that a programmed course of action can be produced.
- This course of action is sent to the weed control robot's memory.
- The weed control robot uses GPS tracking to move along rows of vines and remove weeds.
- A weed removal blade is operated by an actuator under the control of a microprocessor in the robot.
- The robot can distinguish between a weed and a crop using AI.
- This saves labour costs and improves vine growth.
Check Your Understanding: Robots in Agriculture
1. What is phenotyping and how do robots help with it?
Phenotyping is the process of observing the physical characteristics of a plant in order to assess its health and growth. Robots designed for phenotyping are equipped with sensors and thermal cameras that can create a 3D image of the plant. Machine learning is used to recognise any issues with leaves so the robot can convey this back to the farmer. Robots are more accurate and faster at predicting problems than manual methods.
2. How are drones used in agriculture?
- Produce aerial images of crops and land.
- Allow seed-planting to be done far more accurately.
- Allow efficient fertiliser-spreading to reduce waste and improve coverage.
- Can be used in cloud seeding (adding silver iodide crystals to a cloud).
- Use a complex camera system to target seeding and allow fertiliser spraying.
3. How does a robot pick ripe fruit without damaging it?
A camera in the vegetable/fruit guides an arm to remove fruit from its stalk with no damage. The robot is accurate and only picks ripe fruit.
Robots in Medicine
Technological advances have seen an explosion in the use of robots and robotic systems in medicine and medical research. Robots are used in surgical procedures which makes operations safer and makes procedures quicker and less costly.
Surgical Assistance Robots
Robots can be used from monitoring patients to doing actual minor surgery. They make operations safer and procedures quicker and less costly.
Taking Blood Samples
Robots can take blood samples from patients. This is less painful since the robot is better at determining a 'good vein'. It is safer for doctors and nurses if the patient has an infectious disease, and it frees up doctors and nurses to do more skilled work.
Microbots for Targeted Therapy
These use microscopic mechanical components including a microprocessor to localise a drug or other therapy to a specific target site, causing less damage to surrounding tissue.
Prosthetic Limbs
Prosthetic limbs are mini robots — bionic skins and neural implants that interface with the human nervous system (of the damaged limb) giving feedback to allow for better control of the prosthetic limb. Sensors and actuators are used to give human-like responses, such as grip.
Disinfecting Rooms and Operating Theatres
Disinfecting of rooms and operating theatres can be done by autonomous robots.
Streamlining Clinical Workflows
Robotic systems can help streamline clinical workflows and create safer working environments.
Role of Robots in Medicine — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Rehabilitation therapist | Personalised physical therapy exercises to aid recovery. | Doesn't provide emotional support. |
Activity 6.2G: Robots in Medicine
Difficulty: Medium • Estimated time: 8 minutes
Describethreedifferent ways robots are used in medicine. For each, explain one advantage.
- Surgical assistance robots:Make operations safer and procedures quicker and less costly. Advantage: Less invasive, leading to faster recovery times.
- Taking blood samples:Less painful to patients since the robot is better at determining a 'good vein'. Advantage: Safer for doctors and nurses if the patient has an infectious disease, and frees up staff to do more skilled work.
- Microbots for targeted therapy:Use microscopic mechanical components to localise a drug to a specific target site. Advantage: Causes less damage to surrounding tissue.
- Prosthetic limbs:Bionic skins and neural implants interface with the human nervous system. Advantage: Gives feedback to allow better control and human-like responses such as grip.
Check Your Understanding: Robots in Medicine
1. How are robots used to take blood samples and what are the advantages?
- Less painful to patients since the robot is better at determining a 'good vein'.
- Safer for doctors and nurses if the patient has an infectious disease.
- Doctors and nurses can be freed up to do more skilled work.
2. What are microbots and how are they used in medicine?
Microbots use microscopic mechanical components including a microprocessor to localise a drug or other therapy to a specific target site. This causes less damage to surrounding tissue.
3. How do prosthetic limbs work as robots?
Prosthetic limbs are mini robots that use bionic skins and neural implants which interface with the human nervous system (of the damaged limb). They give feedback to allow for better control of the prosthetic limb. Sensors and actuators are used to give human-like responses, such as grip.
Domestic Robots
Although still relatively limited, robots are starting to make their way into the household, helping to automate manual domestic tasks like vacuuming and providing emotional support in the form of social robots. Robots are used around the house to carry out household tasks.
Autonomous Vacuum Cleaners
These use proximity sensors and cameras to avoid bumping into obstacles and allow them to cover a whole room automatically. These robots have a microprocessor to control the overall operation of the device. Actuators are used to control motors which allow movement forward/backward and from side to side.
Autonomous Grass Cutters (Mowers)
These use proximity sensors and cameras to avoid bumping into obstacles. These robots have a microprocessor to control the operation of the device. Actuators are used to control motors which allow movement forward/backward and from side to side.
Ironing Robots
For example, the 'dressman' robot which can iron clothes automatically.
Pool Cleaning & Window Cleaners
Automatic pool cleaning robots and automatic window cleaners are also available.
Entertainment ('Friend' Robots)
Social robots that provide emotional support and entertainment.
Role of Robots in Domestic Settings — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic | Sous chef | Assists with meal prep by doing basic duties (chopping, measuring and following basic recipes). | Limited ability and capabilities. |
Activity 6.2H: Domestic Robots
Difficulty: Easy • Estimated time: 5 minutes
Explain how an autonomous vacuum cleaner works. Include the role of the sensors, microprocessor and actuators.
- Sensors:Proximity sensors and cameras are used to avoid bumping into obstacles and to allow the robot to cover a whole room automatically.
- Microprocessor:Controls the overall operation of the device.
- Actuators:Used to control motors which allow movement forward/backward and from side to side.
Check Your Understanding: Domestic Robots
1. What sensors does an autonomous vacuum cleaner use and why?
An autonomous vacuum cleaner uses proximity sensors and cameras to avoid bumping into obstacles and to allow it to cover a whole room automatically.
2. What is the role of actuators in a domestic robot?
Actuators are used to control motors which allow the robot to move forward/backward and from side to side.
3. Name two other domestic robots besides vacuum cleaners.
- Autonomous grass cutters (mowers)
- Ironing robots (e.g. 'dressman')
- Pool cleaning robots
- Automatic window cleaners
- Entertainment ('friend') robots
Robots in Entertainment
The use of robots in the entertainment industry is increasing. Robots are now found in areas such as:
- Theme parks:Autonomous robots are used to entertain visitors. These robots can interact with visitors to allow them to engage safely with theme park attractions and make the whole experience 'more realistic'.
- Music festivals:Much more immersive for the audience; robotic methods are used to control lighting, visual effects and animation. Visual performances can be fully synchronised with music.
- Film industry:Robotic cameras are used to replicate complex film shots many times in a row. Robots are used to control cameras — for example, keeping them steady and autofocusing when moving around a scene. Humanoid robots can perform 'stunt' action in movies by performing tasks impossible for a human to do.
- Live events, concerts and music festivals:Enhancing live events with robotic-controlled lighting and visual effects.
- Dangerous film sequences:Making dangerous, action-heavy film sequences more realistic without risking human lives.
Robots are capable of producing special effects with a precision, speed and coordination which is beyond human capabilities.
Role of Robots in Entertainment — Scenario Table
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | Educational robot | Interactive learning experiences for children, increased engagement. | High cost, cannot replace the guidance of human teachers. |
Activity 6.2I: Robots in Entertainment
Difficulty: Easy • Estimated time: 5 minutes
Describethreeways robots are used in the entertainment industry.
- Theme parks:Autonomous robots interact with visitors to make the experience more immersive and realistic.
- Music festivals and live events:Robotic methods control lighting, visual effects and animation, fully synchronised with music.
- Film industry:Robotic cameras replicate complex shots; humanoid robots perform stunts impossible for humans; cameras are kept steady and auto-focused.
Check Your Understanding: Robots in Entertainment
1. How are robots used in theme parks?
Autonomous robots are used to entertain visitors. They can interact with visitors to allow them to engage safely with theme park attractions and make the whole experience 'more realistic'.
2. How are robots used in the film industry?
- Robotic cameras replicate complex film shots many times in a row.
- Cameras are kept steady and auto-focused when moving around a scene.
- Humanoid robots can perform 'stunt' action in movies by performing tasks impossible for a human to do.
- Making dangerous, action-heavy film sequences more realistic.
3. Why are robots well-suited to entertainment special effects?
Robots are capable of producing special effects with a precision, speed and coordination which is beyond human capabilities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Robots
Advantages
- Robots can work in conditions that may be dangerous for humans.
- They are well-suited to boring, repetitive tasks, producing consistent results over time.
- Reduced running costs in terms of heating, lighting, pension, sick/holiday pay.
- Robots can operate 24/7 without breaks, lunch or sleep, vastly increasing productivity.
- Improved safety because human error is largely or completely removed.
- Robots are more consistent.
Disadvantages
- Robotic systems are initially very expensive to set up.
- They have replaced a large number of manual jobs, resulting in unemployment.
- As with any computer-based technology, there is potential for cyber attacks.
- Robots tend to not cope as well with unexpected situations that require a degree of human intuition.
- Robots can find it difficult to do non-standard tasks.
Activity 6.2J: Advantages and Disadvantages
Difficulty: Medium • Estimated time: 8 minutes
A hospital is considering using robots to assist with surgical procedures. Discusstwo advantagesandtwo disadvantagesof this decision.
Advantages:
- Operations become safer and procedures quicker and less costly.
- Robots can work 24/7 without getting tired, increasing productivity.
- Improved safety because human error is largely or completely removed.
Disadvantages:
- Robotic systems are initially very expensive to set up.
- There is potential for cyber attacks.
- Robots cannot cope as well with unexpected situations that require human intuition.
- Could lead to job losses for some medical staff.
Check Your Understanding: Advantages & Disadvantages
1. State two advantages of using robots.
- Robots can work in conditions that may be dangerous for humans.
- Robots can operate 24/7 without breaks, vastly increasing productivity.
- Improved safety because human error is largely or completely removed.
- Reduced running costs (heating, lighting, pension, sick/holiday pay).
2. State two disadvantages of using robots.
- Robotic systems are initially very expensive to set up.
- They have replaced a large number of manual jobs, resulting in unemployment.
- Potential for cyber attacks.
- Robots tend not to cope as well with unexpected situations.
3. Why might a company hesitate to replace workers with robots?
- Robotic systems are initially very expensive to set up.
- Significant testing and calibration must be done before use.
- It can result in significant job losses, which may be unethical.
- Ongoing maintenance costs can be expensive.
4. Give an example of a task that a robot cannot do as well as a human.
Robots cannot cope as well with unexpected situations that require a degree of human intuition. For example, if a windscreen being fitted to a car is cracked, a robot may not be able to detect this and adjust its behaviour accordingly, whereas a human would notice and take corrective action.
Worked Example
Factory Robots for Restaurant Tables and Chairs
A company uses robots in its factory to manufacture restaurant tables and chairs.
(i) One characteristic of a robot is that they contain electrical components. Give two other characteristics of a robot. [2]
(ii) Give two advantages to company employees of using robots to manufacture tables and chairs. [2]
(iii) Give one disadvantage to the company's owners of using robots to manufacture tables and chairs. [1]
Marking Scheme
(i)Mechanical structure [1]; Programmable [1]
(ii)Employees don't need to lift heavy items [1]; Employees can be protected from dangerous tasks [1]; Employees can utilise their skills in other tasks; Employees don't need to perform repetitive/mundane tasks
(iii)Expensive to install/purchase/set up [1]; High ongoing costs/maintenance costs; May deskill the workforce; If they malfunction, production may stop
Activity 6.2K: Practice Exam Question
Difficulty: Hard • Estimated time: 12 minutes
A farm is considering using drones and robots to help with crop production. Describe how the farm could use robots and drones forseed-plantingandfertiliser distribution. Include the role of sensors, microprocessors and actuators in your answer. [6]
- Drones (flying robots) produce aerial images of crops and land using complex camera systems.
- This allows seed-planting to be done far more accurately (optimum depths and distances).
- Drones allow efficient fertiliser-spreading to reduce waste and improve coverage.
- Sensors on the drones collect data about the land and crops.
- Microprocessors process this data to determine the best course of action.
- Actuators control the release of seeds and fertiliser at the correct times and locations.
Check Your Understanding: Worked Example
1. What are the three characteristics of a robot?
- Mechanical structure or framework
- Electrical components (sensors, microprocessors, actuators)
- Programmable
2. Give two advantages to employees of using robots in manufacturing.
- Employees don't need to lift heavy items.
- Employees can be protected from dangerous tasks.
- Employees can utilise their skills in other tasks.
- Employees don't need to perform repetitive/mundane tasks.
3. Give one disadvantage to a company's owners of using robots.
- Expensive to install/purchase/set up.
- High ongoing costs/maintenance costs.
- May deskill the workforce.
- If they malfunction, production may stop.
Key Takeaways
- Robotics is a branch of computer science involving the design, construction and operation of robots.
- A robot is a machine that carries out work by itself by following a set of programmed rules.
- Dumb robots repeat the same tasks with no AI; smart robots are trained to learn, adapt and carry out more complex tasks.
- All robots share three characteristics: a mechanical structure, electrical components (sensors, microprocessors, actuators) and programmability.
- The controller is the 'brain' of a robot; end effectors are attachments for specific tasks like welding, spraying, cutting or lifting.
- Software robots include web crawlers (search engine bots) and chatbots.
- Independent robots have no direct human control; dependent robots have a human interfacing directly with them.
- Robots are used in industry (assembly lines, warehouses), transport (autonomous cars, trains), agriculture (harvesting, weed control, phenotyping, seeding), medicine (surgery, blood samples, microbots, prosthetics), domestic (vacuum cleaners, mowers) and entertainment (theme parks, film, music festivals).
- Robots can work in hazardous conditions, 24/7, are more consistent and reduce long-term costs.
- Disadvantages include high set-up costs, job losses, cyber attack risks and inability to handle non-standard tasks.
- Ethical and legal issues include accountability, safety, algorithmic bias and legal liability.
Question Bank
1. Define robotics and explain what is meant by a robot. [4 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Robotics:A branch of computer science that brings together the design, construction and operation of robots. [2]
- Robot:A machine that carries out work by itself by following a set of programmed rules. [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Robotics is thefield; a robot is themachine.
- Think of robotics as the science and a robot as the product.
2. Describe the three characteristics of a robot. [6 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Mechanical structure:A physical body that can move and interact with the environment. [2]
- Electrical components:Sensors, microprocessors and actuators. [2]
- Programmable:Designed to follow a precise set of instructions. [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Think of a robot like a human body: skeleton (mechanical structure), nerves and brain (electrical components), and skills learned (programmable).
3. Explain the difference between dumb robots and smart robots, giving an example of each. [4 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Dumb robotsrepeat the same programmed instructions over and over again with no AI involved. [1] Example: Car assembly line. [1]
- Smart robotsare trained to learn, adapt and carry out progressively more complex tasks. [1] Example: A robot designed to beat a human at chess. [1]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Dumb robots are like a washing machine — they follow the same cycle every time.
- Smart robots are like a self-driving car — they adapt to different road conditions.
4. Describe how robots are used in industry, giving three specific examples. [6 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Heavy lifting, vehicle bodywork, spray-painting car bodies. [2]
- Mechanical cutting, grinding and polishing. [2]
- Manufacturing microchips, automated warehouses, inspection and quality control. [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Think about a car factory — robots lift heavy parts, weld them together, spray paint the car, and inspect the finished product.
5. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using robots in transport. [8 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Advantage:Safer since human error is removed leading to fewer accidents. [1]
- Advantage:Better for the environment since vehicles will operate more efficiently. [1]
- Advantage:Reduced traffic congestion. [1]
- Advantage:Stress-free parking for motorists. [1]
- Disadvantage:Very expensive system to set up in the first place. [1]
- Disadvantage:Fear of hacking into the vehicle's control system. [1]
- Disadvantage:Security and safety issues (software glitches could be catastrophic). [1]
- Disadvantage:Driver and passenger reluctance to use the new technology. [1]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Think about self-driving cars — safer but expensive, could be hacked, and some people don't trust them.
6. Describe how robots are used in agriculture, including at least three specific applications. [6 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Harvesting/picking:Robots accurately pick ripe fruit, leading to higher yields and reduced waste. [2]
- Weed control:Robots distinguish weeds from crops using AI and remove them. [2]
- Phenotyping:Sensors and thermal cameras create 3D images of plants to assess health and growth. [2]
- Seed-planting and fertiliser distribution:Drones produce aerial images and allow accurate seeding and fertiliser spreading. [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Robots can do the boring, repetitive jobs on a farm — picking fruit, pulling weeds, planting seeds, and checking plant health.
7. Describe how robots are used in medicine. Give three examples. [6 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Surgical assistance robots:Make operations safer and procedures quicker and less costly. [2]
- Taking blood samples:Less painful, safer for staff, frees up doctors and nurses. [2]
- Microbots for targeted therapy:Localise a drug to a specific target site, causing less damage to surrounding tissue. [2]
- Prosthetic limbs:Bionic skins and neural implants interface with the nervous system to give human-like responses. [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Robots in medicine help doctors perform surgery more precisely, take blood samples more easily, and even deliver drugs to exactly where they're needed in the body.
8. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using robots in the home. [6 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Advantage:Automate manual domestic tasks like vacuuming and lawn mowing. [1]
- Advantage:Can work without human supervision (autonomous). [1]
- Advantage:Save time and effort for homeowners. [1]
- Disadvantage:Expensive to buy and maintain. [1]
- Disadvantage:Limited ability and capabilities (e.g. sous chef robot can only do basic tasks). [1]
- Disadvantage:May not cope with unexpected situations. [1]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Robot vacuum cleaners are becoming common — they save time, but they're expensive and can get stuck.
9. Explain the ethical and legal issues raised by the development of AI and robotics. [8 marks]
Marking Scheme
- Accountability:Who is responsible when a robot makes a mistake? [2]
- Safety:Ensuring robots do not cause harm to humans. [2]
- Algorithmic bias:AI systems may inherit or amplify biases present in their training data. [2]
- Legal liability:Who is legally responsible for damage caused by an autonomous system? [2]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- If a self-driving car crashes, who is to blame? The owner? The manufacturer? The programmer? This is a legal and ethical minefield.
- AI can also be biased if it's trained on biased data — for example, facial recognition that works better on some skin tones than others.
10. A company uses robots in its factory to manufacture restaurant tables and chairs. (i) Give two other characteristics of a robot besides electrical components. (ii) Give two advantages to company employees of using robots. (iii) Give one disadvantage to the company's owners of using robots. [5 marks]
Marking Scheme
- (i)Mechanical structure [1]; Programmable [1]
- (ii)Employees don't need to lift heavy items [1]; Employees can be protected from dangerous tasks [1]
- (iii)Expensive to install/purchase/set up [1]
Additional Notes for Slow Learners
- Think about what a robot needs: a body (mechanical structure), senses and a brain (electrical components), and instructions (programmable).