Automation |
The use of technology to perform tasks without human assistance. For example, in a factory, robots are used to automate repetitive tasks such as assembling parts. |
Sensor |
A device that detects or measures a physical quantity such as temperature, pressure, or light and converts it into a signal that can be read by an observer or by an instrument. Sensors are used in robotics to help the robot perceive its surroundings and adjust its behavior accordingly. |
Algorithm |
A set of steps or rules to follow to solve a problem or perform a task. In robotics, algorithms are used to control the robot's behavior and enable it to perform tasks such as navigation, object recognition, and path planning. |
Kinematics |
The study of motion without considering the forces that cause the motion. In robotics, kinematics is used to describe the position, velocity, and acceleration of a robot's parts based on their geometry and motion constraints. |
Mobility |
The ability to move or be moved freely and easily. In robotics, mobility refers to the ability of a robot to move its body or manipulators to perform tasks such as navigation, manipulation, and inspection. |
Artificial intelligence |
The ability of a machine to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, decision-making, and perception. In robotics, AI is used to enable the robot to adapt to its environment, learn from its experiences, and improve its performance over time. |
Control system |
A system that manages and regulates the behavior of a device, process, or system. In robotics, a control system is used to coordinate the robot's movements, control its sensors and actuators, and monitor its behavior. |
Actuator |
A device that produces a physical movement or force, such as a motor, hydraulic cylinder, or piezoelectric actuator. In robotics, actuators are used to control the robot's movements, such as rotating a joint or moving a gripper. |
Manipulator |
A robotic arm that is designed to perform tasks such as moving objects, assembling parts, or manipulating tools. Manipulators typically consist of a series of linked segments or degrees of freedom that enable them to move in different directions and orientations. |
Computer vision |
The ability of a machine to interpret and understand visual information from the world around it, such as images or videos. In robotics, computer vision is used to enable the robot to perceive and recognize objects in its environment, navigate through obstacles, and interact with humans. |
Machine learning |
A subset of artificial intelligence that involves the use of algorithms that allow machines to learn from data, make predictions, and improve their performance over time. In robotics, machine learning is used to enable the robot to adapt to new situations, learn from its experiences, and improve its behavior based on feedback. |
Haptic feedback |
The use of touch or tactile sensation to provide information or feedback to a user or operator. In robotics, haptic feedback is used to enable the robot to feel objects or surfaces and adjust its behavior accordingly. For example, a robot may use haptic feedback to determine the texture or hardness of an object it is holding, or to detect the presence of an obstacle in its path. |
Localization |
The process of determining the position or location of a device or object in relation to a reference frame or map. In robotics, localization is used to enable the robot to navigate, map its environment, or track the position of objects it is interacting with. |
Object recognition |
The ability of a machine to identify or classify objects based on their appearance, shape, color, or other visual features. In robotics, object recognition is used to enable the robot to identify and manipulate objects in its environment, such as picking up a specific type of fruit or avoiding obstacles while navigating. |
Path planning |
The process of finding an optimal path or trajectory for a robot to move from one position to another in a given environment. Path planning typically involves considering the robot's physical constraints, such as its size, shape, and mobility, as well as environmental constraints such as obstacles or terrain. |
Computer-aided design(CAD) |
The use of computer software to create, modify, or analyze designs for a product or system. In robotics, CAD is used to design and simulate robots or robot components, such as a manipulator arm or a gripper, in a virtual environment before they are built. |
Teleoperation |
The process of controlling a robot remotely from a distance using a computer or other device. Teleoperation is often used in situations where it is difficult or dangerous for a human to physically interact with an environment. For example, teleoperation is used in space exploration to control rovers on other planets, or in nuclear power plants to control robots that can go into radioactive areas. |
Feedback |
Information or signals that a system or device receives and uses to adjust its behavior or performance. In robotics, feedback is used to monitor the robot's movements, detect errors or deviations from the desired behavior, and adjust the robot's behavior accordingly. For example, a robot may use feedback from its sensors to adjust its grip on an object, or to correct its path while navigating. |
End effector |
The tool or device attached to the end of a robot's manipulator arm that is used to perform tasks such as picking up objects, manipulating tools, or performing a surgical operation. End effectors can take many forms, such as a gripper, a vacuum pump, or a laser, depending on the task requirements. |
Robotics ethics |
The study of the ethical implications of the development and use of robots and AI. Robotics ethics involves questions such as who is responsible for the actions of a robot, how to minimize the risk of harm to humans or the environment, and how to ensure that robots are used in beneficial ways. Robotics ethics is becoming increasingly important as robots and AI are used in more industries, from healthcare and transportation to manufacturing and military applications. |