How Robots Work

A robotic arm produces dishwashers at an intelligent workshop on Nov. 12, in Hefei, Anhui Province of China.

Chen Sanhu/VCG via Getty Images

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The term robot originates from the Czech word robota, which translates to "forced labor." This definition aptly describes the role of most robots in today's world. Predominantly designed for heavy and repetitive manufacturing tasks, they take on responsibilities that are often difficult, dangerous, or monotonous for humans.

Structure of a Robotic Arm

The robotic arm is a staple in manufacturing environments. Typically constructed from seven metal segments connected by six joints, a computer controls the robot by rotating individual stepper motors linked to each joint. While some larger robotic arms may employ hydraulics or pneumatics, stepper motors allow for precise movements, enabling the arm to perform identical tasks repeatedly. To ensure accuracy, motion sensors are utilized to verify that the robot moves exactly the required amount.

An industrial robot with six joints closely resembles a human arm; it features a shoulder, elbow, and wrist. The shoulder is generally mounted to a stable base rather than a movable body. This design grants the robot six degrees of freedom, allowing it to pivot in various directions. In comparison, a human arm boasts seven degrees of freedom.

End Effectors and Their Applications

The primary function of your arm is to shift your hand from one location to another. In a similar vein, the robotic arm's purpose is to move an end effector. Robotic arms can be equipped with various end effectors tailored to specific applications. A common end effector is a simplified hand that can grasp and transport different objects. Many robotic hands are designed with built-in pressure sensors, which inform the computer about the grip strength, preventing the robot from dropping or damaging the objects it carries. Other types of end effectors include blowtorches, drills, and spray painters.

Industrial Robots and Their Efficiency

Industrial robots aim to perform consistent tasks, such as tightening caps on peanut butter jars along an assembly line. To train a robot for its duties, programmers guide the arm through desired movements using a handheld controller. The robot memorizes this exact sequence of actions to replicate it with each new unit on the assembly line.

Most industrial robots operate on automotive assembly lines to assemble cars. They accomplish many tasks more efficiently than humans due to their precision. Robots consistently drill in the same location and tighten bolts with the same force regardless of the hours they work. Moreover, manufacturing robots play a crucial role in the computer industry, where assembling tiny microchips requires remarkable precision.

Robots in Various Fields

Robots are increasingly found working alongside construction workers, performing wall plastering tasks accurately and more quickly than humans. They are also employed in underwater exploration, assisting surgeons with delicate procedures, and even flipping burgers in commercial kitchens. All these robots feature some form of a robotic arm.

Robotic Arms in Space Exploration

Robotic arms are vital in space exploration as well. NASA employs a seven-degree-of-freedom arm—similar to human arms—to capture equipment for repairs or to grasp asteroids. The Perseverance rover is equipped with a 7-foot (2-meter) robotic arm that utilizes various specialized tools for exploring Mars' surface. A camera enables scientists to observe and guide the arm's actions. This arm includes an abrading tool for grinding rock samples and a coring drill, which collects samples in metal tubes for potential return to Earth on future missions. A device known as PIXL (Planetary Instrument for X-ray Lithochemistry) employs a hexapod with six smaller mechanical legs that adjust the X-ray angle for optimal results.

Another instrument, known as the Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman and Luminescence for Organics & Chemicals (SHERLOC), identifies minerals based on light scattering patterns. Following this, the Wide Angle Topographic Sensor for Operations and eNgineering (WATSON) captures close-up images for Earth-based scientists, allowing them to generate a mineral map of Mars' surface.

Writing About Robots

The term robot was first coined by the Czech playwright Karel Čapek in his play "R.U.R." In this narrative, machine workers rebel against their human creators after a scientist endows them with emotions. Numerous authors and filmmakers have revisited this theme over the years. Isaac Asimov, however, took a more optimistic approach in his various novels and short stories, portraying robots as beneficial companions programmed to follow a strict nonviolence code against humans—the "Laws of Robotics."

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