An introduction to robotics is a forward-thinking study path. After all, robotics will be critical to most careers in the future, making understanding this subject critical to employability and productivity!

Our Certificate of Introductory Robotics is a professional development program that will develop your understanding of robots.

In this introduction to robotics courses, you’ll learn how robots work, types of robots, sensors, and processers, and about kinematics and cybernetics.

You’ll also learn about maintenance, from preventative measures to breakdown planning, and about the many applications of industrial and service robots.

So, if you’re looking for future-proof your career, look no further than an introduction to robotics! Upon completing this course, you’ll understand robotics, future applications of robots and the many possible uses for robots of the future.

 

Learning Outcomes

Outcomes achieved by undertaking an introduction to robotics include:

• A brief history of robotics
• Types of physical robots
• Cartesian robots, cylindrical robots, SCARA (selective compliance articulated robot arm), delta robots and articulated robots
• Basic components of a physical robot
• Key principles in robotics
• Classifying robots and key terms
• Classification of robots based on the workspace geometry, mode of operation, application (factory/manufacturing and domestic), movement (fixed and mobile)
• Hydraulic actuator
• Pneumatic actuator
• Electrical actuator
• Synchronous actuator
• Benefits and drawbacks
• Mechanical components of robots
• Robot links and joints
• Types of sensors – light, sound, temperature, tactile, acceleration, navigation, positioning and distance
• Signal processing
• Accuracy and precision
• Safety of workers working around robotic equipment
• Moving to an internet-based digital infrastructure
• Power supply
• Mains, generator systems and hybrid systems
• Battery specifications and types of batteries used in robots
• Photovoltaic cells and fuel cells
• Control systems
• Open-loop control system
• Forward kinematics
• Reverse/ inverse kinematics
• Configuration and workspace
• Structure of robots
• Based on joints, topology, and position
• Kinematic pairs
• Based on the type of contact between the elements
• Floating bases and virtual linkages
• Fundamental electrical components
• Resistors capacitors inductors transformers
• Application of robots

And more …

Who Coined the Term Robotics?

In our introduction to robotics course, you’ll learn about the history of robotics.  Interestingly, the term robotics was coined by a Russian-born American science fiction writer named Isaac Asimov.

Asimov was a prolific writer, penning more than 500 books, and was also a biochemistry professor at Boston University.

The word robotics was first used in his short story ‘Liar!’ which was published in 1941. His depiction of robots was optimistic, characterising them as helpful servants that made life easier for society.

Asimov also came up with the ‘Three Laws of Robotics’:

A robot:

1. May not injure a human being or, through interaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
2. Must obey the orders given by human beings except where such order conflict with the First Law.
3. Must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the Frist or Second Law.

What Was the First Robot?

Joseph Frederick Engelberger was an American physicist, engineer, and entrepreneur. He licenced the original patent awarded to inventor George Devol, and developed the first industrial robot called the Unimate in the 1950s.

Engelberger was an entrepreneur and vocal advocate of robotic technology in various fields, from service industries to health care, and space exploration. He is often referred to as “the father of robotics” for his contributions to the field.

The Unimate was an industrial robot which worked on a General Motors assembly line in 1961. The machine was responsible for transporting die castings from an assembly line and welding these parts onto auto-bodies. This task was dangerous for people, as there was a risk of poisoning by toxic fumes or even limb loss!

In 2003, the Ultimate was inducted into the Robot Hall of Fame!

 

5 Ways Robotics Will Change Our Future

There’s no doubt that robots have and will continue to improve human beings’ lives, from health care to transportation, education, and beyond – the future is exciting!

1. Law enforcement and public safety

Advances in artificial intelligence and surveillance systems mean that detecting and responding to crime will get faster. In fact, automatic recognition of suspicious activity is a reality for many camera-based security systems!

2. Education

Computer-based learning is changing the education space for the better, but not by replacing teachers! Instead, robots boost the ability to deliver personalised learning programs!

Pepper and NAO, humanoid robots, are already establishing bonds with students from all over the world. They are the perfect assistants for educators by facilitating content creation and customised teaching activities.  These robots help students develop problem-solving and analytical skills and have natural interaction, such as moving, listening, speaking, and connecting!

3. Autonomous cars

Perhaps one of the most exciting developments in robotics is the self-driving car. At the moment self-driving cars still require some human intervention, but we’re getting closer to the day they’ll drive themselves!

As companies continue to invest in this exciting technology, we’ll live to see a    revolution in driving and public transport in the next decade!

4. Health care

The medical field, health care workers and patients benefit from robotic technologies via facilitating medical procedures by guiding instruments, diagnostic equipment and therapy. They improve safety and overall quality of medical treatment while lowering health care cost.

5. In the home

We can already have our house vacuumed while we’re at work by a robot and have a home-cooked meal ready when we arrive home! Home-based robotic technology will only get more advanced, with robots taking over more of the monotonous chores we loathe! Can’t wait!

Careers in Robotics

There are many careers that will be impacted by robots – for better or worse – but these careers will be behind this new robotic revolution!

Robotics engineer

Engineers develop robots on paper, and their creation can take time due to research, high-technicality and sophistication of the machine. So, if patience isn’t a virtue, this may not be the career for you!

Software Developer

A software developer writes the systematic code to ensure robots perform tasks safely and precisely. Computer coding and software design are the skills are critical.

Technicians

A robotic technician repairs and maintains robots and also builds parts for robots. An electromechanical technician is part of the design process and works closely with an engineer.

 

Automation in the form of robotics will impact all kinds of work, which means we’re looking at a more comfortable future – aren’t you eager to be part of it? Study an introduction to robotics in the Certificate of Introductory Robotics!