Designing robots or smart devices using 3D modeling with the following
specifications:
a. description of robot design
b. Name of the device
c. Parts
d. Function
e. Dimension
f. classification and type of robot
g. 4D job identification
Robot design is the process of creating a robot's physical form and functionality. It
involves mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science.
Robot design process
Identify needs: Define the tasks the robot will perform
Select materials: Choose materials that meet the robot's performance
requirements
Design hardware: Create the physical components that enable the robot to
sense, actuate, communicate, and process information
Design software: Program the robot to move and interact with its environment
Consider safety: Follow safety standards and ethical guidelines to prevent harm
to humans and other living beings
Consider power: Choose a power supply that meets the robot's needs, such as
a battery or wall outlet
Robot design is the process of creating robots by selecting materials with specific
properties to meet performance requirements, such as light and firm materials for
jumping robots to achieve higher jumps and longer distances, and materials with small
volume, light mass, and high energy density for manufacturing
What is a robot device?
A robot is a type of automated machine that can execute specific tasks with little or no
human intervention and with speed and precision. The field of robotics, which deals with
robot design, engineering and operation, has advanced remarkably in the last 50 years.
A robot typically consists of several key parts including: sensors to perceive the
environment, actuators to generate movement, a controller to process information and
command actions, a manipulator (robot arm) for reaching and interacting with objects,
an end effector (tool attached to the manipulator) to perform specific tasks, and a power
supply to provide energy; each component plays a specific role in enabling the robot to
perform its intended function, with dimensions varying based on the robot's design and
application.
Key Parts and Functions:
Sensors:
Function: Gather information about the environment through various
modalities like vision, touch, proximity, force, etc.
Examples: Cameras, ultrasonic sensors, tactile sensors, pressure
sensors.
Actuators:
Function: Convert electrical signals into physical motion by generating
force or torque.
Examples: Electric motors (DC, stepper), pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic
actuators.
Controller:
Function: Processes sensor data, calculates necessary actions, and
sends commands to actuators.
Key aspects: Programming logic, decision making algorithms
Manipulator (Robot Arm):
Function: Provides mobility and reach to interact with objects in the
environment, typically composed of multiple joints and links.
Key aspects: Degrees of freedom (DOF) determining the range of
motion
End Effector:
Function: The tool attached to the end of the manipulator, designed for
specific tasks like gripping, welding, painting, etc.
Examples: Grippers, drills, cutting tools
Dimensions of a Robot:
Reach: The maximum distance the robot arm can extend from its base to the
end effector.
Payload Capacity: The maximum weight a robot can lift and manipulate.
Joint Angles: The range of motion at each joint of the manipulator.
Work Envelope: The 3D space within which the robot can operate.
Important Considerations:
Robot Type:
Different robot types (industrial, mobile, humanoid) will have distinct designs and
components based on their intended applications.
Precision and Accuracy:
The level of precision required for a robot's movements will influence the choice of
sensors and actuators.
Safety Features:
Safety considerations like collision detection and emergency stop mechanisms are
crucial for robot design.
Robots can be classified by their complexity, mechanical structure, and intended use.
Classification by complexity
Simple: Automated machines without complex circuitry
Middle: Can perform multiple tasks, but their programming can't be changed
Complex: Can be reprogrammed, have complex circuitry, and can interact with
their environment
Classification by intended use
Industrial: Used in manufacturing to drive efficiency and improve safety
Domestic: Used in homes
Military: Used for surveillance
Drones: Used for filming and tracking
Other types of robots are: Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), Automated guided
vehicles (AGVs), Humanoids, Cobots, and Hybrids.
A "4D job" in robotics refers to a task that is considered dull, dirty, dangerous, and
difficult - meaning it's repetitive, involves exposure to unpleasant conditions, poses
safety risks, and requires high levels of precision or complex manipulation, making it
ideal for automation with robots.
Key points about 4D jobs in robotics:
Human-centric focus:
The idea is to replace tasks that are undesirable for humans with robots, allowing
people to focus on more engaging and fulfilling work.
Industrial applications:
Many manufacturing processes involve 4D tasks like assembly line operations, material
handling in harsh environments, and hazardous cleaning procedures.
Robot design considerations:
When designing robots for 4D jobs, engineers need to prioritize factors like durability,
dexterity, environmental resistance, and precise control.
Examples of 4D jobs in robotics:
Painting car parts in a spray booth: (dirty, potentially hazardous)
Sorting and stacking heavy boxes in a warehouse: (dull, physically
demanding)
Welding components in a high-heat environment: (dangerous, repetitive)
Inspecting intricate details on a circuit board: (detailed, visually demanding)