Learn About Different Types Of Robots And Their Possible Applications

The advances in automation are ever expanding. There are many distinct types of robots, each with its own set of features and benefits that are best suited to a variety of applications in various industries where robots can assist in completing computations, making judgments, and executing actions.

Course Code: BSC116

Course Duration: 100 hours of self paced studies

Robots are autonomous machines capable of sensing their environment, performing computations to make decisions, and executing actions. In this course you will develop a foundation for understanding robotics, and learn about different types and possible uses of robots. It is a great way for those who work with robotics to better understand the underlying principles of how they work, or as an introduction to those hoping to study further or work with robotics in the future.

COURSE CONTENT

There are 8 Lessons in this course:

Lesson 1. Types of Robots

• A Brief History of Robotics
• Types of Physical Robots
• Components of a Robot
• Key Principles of Robotics
• Robotics Terminology
• Classification of Robots according to Workspace Geometry - Cartesian, Cylindrical, SCARA Delta, Articulated
• Classifying Robots based on Mode of Operation - Pre programmed, Autonomous, Teleoperated, Augmenting, Humanoid
• Classification based on Application - Manufacturing, Other Industrial, Domestic, Entertainment
• Classification Based on Movement - Fixed, Mobile

Lesson 2. Robotic Actuators 

• Actuators - Hydraulic, Pneumatic Electrical, Synchronous
• Mechanical Components of Robots - Sensors, Power Supply, Actuators, Body/Frame, Control System
• Manipulators, Drivetrain, Motors, Levers, Gears, Pulleys
• Robot Links and Joints
• Robot Movement - PTF and CP movements

Lesson 3. Robotic Sensors 

• Types of Sensors
• Light Sensors - Photoresistors, Photovoltaic cells
• Sound Sensors
• Proximity Sensors
• Temperature Sensors
• Tactile Sensors
• Acceleration Sensors
• Navigation and Positioning Sensors
• Sensing Distance, Pressure, Tilt, Voltage, Current, Humidity, Gas
• Devices Used in Sensing - Gyroscope, IMU
• Signal Processing
• Challenges - accuracy, precision, safety etc.

Lesson 4. Power Supply & Control Systems

• Power Supply - Generators, Batteries, Hybrid Systems, etc
• Battery Types
• Control Systems - Open Loop, Closed Loop
• Types of Robot Control Techniques
• ON-OFF control
• Proportional control
• Integral control
• Proportional-Integral control (P-I)
• Proportional-Derivative control (P-D)
• Proportional-Integral-Derivative control (P-I-D)
• Linear Time-invariant control (LTI)

Lesson 5. Kinematics

• Forward and Reverse/Inverse Kinematics
• Configuration and Workspace
• Structure of Robots - based on joints, topology or position
• Configurations and Configuration Space
• Degrees of Freedom
• Kinematic Pairs
• Floating Bases and Virtual Linkages
• Joint Limits and Configuration Space
• Configurations for Parallel Mechanisms
• End Effectors and Reachable Workspaces

Lesson 6. Cybernetics

• Robot Brain
• Understanding the Human Brain as a Foundation
• Artificial Brain Cells
• Enhanced Mobility
• Artificial Intelligence
• A.I. Applications
• Developments in Autonomy

Lesson 7. Robot Maintenance

• Why maintenance?
• Maintaining robot components
• Preventative maintenance 
• After breakdown maintenance
• Maintenance planning

Lesson 8. Robotics Applications

• Applications for Robots - Industrial, Service
• Logistics - Loading, Piece Picking, Customising and Packing, Delivery
• Manufacturing - Casting, Painting, Welding, Mounting
• Healthcare Service Robots - Telepresence Physicians, Surgical Assistants, Rehabilitation, Bionics, Sanitation, etc
• Home Service Robots - Vacuuming, Pool Cleaning, Lawn Mowing, Personal Assistant, ets
• Other Application Types - Educational, Defence, Space, Security, etc.

Why Study This Course?

• Learn about robotic principles to enhance your understanding for your own robotics projects

• This course touches on a range of other subjects such as electronics, physics and mechanics - it can be used as a start point for further study or as part of a self designed certificate.

• Understanding robotics will be important to many future roles - take this course and get ahead of the curve

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