Applications of Robotics
Robots are used across various fields due to their ability to perform repetitive, precise, or dangerous tasks efficiently:
- Manufacturing
- Assembly line tasks, welding, painting, and material handling.
- Example: Automotive industry (spot welding & assembly).
- Healthcare
- Robotic-assisted surgeries, rehabilitation, and patient care.
- Example: Da Vinci Surgical System.
- Agriculture
- Harvesting, planting, seeding, watering, and spraying fertilizers.
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Package handling, sorting, and transporting goods.
- Example: Amazon uses robots in fulfillment centers.
- Military and Defense
- Bomb disposal, surveillance drones, unmanned vehicles, and reconnaissance.
- Education and Research
- Teaching automation and programming, conducting scientific experiments.
- Entertainment
- Animatronics in theme parks, movies, and robotic performers.
- Space Exploration
- Remote exploration of planets and celestial bodies.
- Example: NASA’s Mars Rover.
- Environmental Monitoring
- Collecting data on pollution, wildlife, and weather conditions.
- Personal Assistance
- Home assistants, elder care robots, robotic vacuum cleaners.
Advantages of Robotics
✔ Improved Safety
Robots can operate in dangerous or hazardous environments (e.g., nuclear plants, deep sea, space, war zones).
✔ Increased Efficiency
Operate at constant speed without fatigue; faster production cycles.
✔ High Accuracy and Quality
Consistent product quality with minimal human error.
✔ Heavy Load Handling
Can lift and carry loads heavier than what humans can manage.
✔ Compact Operation
Capable of working in tight and restricted spaces.
✔ Reprogrammable
Flexible to use for multiple operations through reprogramming.
✔ Integratable with CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing)
Robots can be easily incorporated into smart factories and automation systems.
✔ Low Defects
Improved process control leads to fewer defective products.
Disadvantages of Robotics
High Initial Cost
Setting up robotic systems requires heavy investment in equipment and training.
Requirement of Skilled Professionals
Trained engineers, programmers, and technicians are necessary for setup and maintenance.
Limited Decision-Making
Without advanced AI, robots cannot handle unexpected or emergency situations efficiently.
High Maintenance Cost
Robot parts and components are expensive to repair or replace.