Basic Components of a Robot

Flashcards covering the key concepts from the lecture notes on Basic Components of a Robot.

What is the Structure (Frame or Body) of a robot and what does it determine?

The physical structure that holds all components together; determines the robot’s shape, size, and range of motion; can be humanoid, wheeled, tracked, or custom-designed.

What is the Controller (Brain) of a robot and what are common examples?

The central processing unit (CPU) or microcontroller that runs software, makes decisions based on sensor inputs, and controls the actuators; examples include Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other custom embedded systems.

What are actuators and what do they do?

Motors or mechanisms that move the robot; control the robot’s joints, wheels, arms, or other moving parts; main types include electric motors (DC, servo, stepper), hydraulic actuators, and pneumatic actuators.

What are the key characteristics of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators?

Hydraulic actuators use oil to generate movement and provide large force; Pneumatic actuators use air and are common in manufacturing and indoor settings; Electric actuators use electric current and magnets, offering more control, less environmental hazards, quieter operation, and easier programming.

What is the purpose of sensors in a robot and what are some common types?

Provide data about the robot’s environment or its own state; types include light sensors, sound sensors, temperature sensors, contact sensors, proximity sensors, distance sensors, pressure sensors, and positioning sensors.

What is the role of a power supply and what forms can it take?

Provides the energy needed to operate; must be matched to the robot’s voltage and current requirements; can be batteries (Li-ion, NiMH, etc.), wired power sources, or solar power.

How do power supplies vary for stationary versus mobile robots and for probes/satellites?

Stationary robots typically receive direct power; mobile robots typically use high-capacity batteries; robotic probes and satellites are generally equipped with solar panels for energy harvesting.

What is an end effector in a robot, and what tasks can it perform?

The tool or device at the end of a robotic arm that interacts with the environment; used to perform tasks such as gripping, welding, painting, or measuring.

Name three types of grippers used as end effectors.

Mechanical grippers (fingers or jaws), vacuum grippers (suction), magnetic grippers.

What are examples of tools that can be end effectors?

Welding torches, spray guns (for painting), and screwdrivers or drills (for assembly).

What are sensors or probes used for in end effectors?

Used for inspection, measurement, or scanning tasks.

What are Custom End Effectors?

End effectors designed for specific applications (e.g., surgical tools, 3D printing nozzles).

What is a Program in robotics and why is it essential?

A robot’s program isn’t a physical component, but it provides the logic that drives behaviors by processing stimuli and feedback from the other components.

Which programming languages are listed for robotics in the notes?

Python, C/C++, Java, MATLAB, and Arduino C.

Which language is associated with embedded systems and ROS core (low-level) according to the notes?

C/C++.

Which language is specifically used for microcontroller programming (low-level) according to the notes?

Arduino C.

Which language is described as suitable for mid-level tasks such as simulations and control theory?

MATLAB.