Saturday 9 July 2011

An Introduction to Robotics

Let us first define the terms 'robot' and 'robotics.' According to the Robot Institute of America (1979), a robot is "A reprogrammable, multifunctional manipulator designed to move material, parts, tools, or specialized devices through various programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks" More generally it's a machine that functions in place of a living person.

Now coming to robotics, it's a multidisciplinary area which integrates intelligent control, communications, computer vision, mechatronics, sensor fusion, design and many other aspects on a single platform for a better service. This branch of technology is related to the sciences of electronics engineering, mechanics, and software.

"Robotics is a highly technical field of advanced engineering and technology. It involves practical skills backed by higher-end theory. It calls for innovative thinking, application and creativity-skills which are not found in textbooks." Explains Dr G. Venkatesh, adjunct professor, Global Academy of Technology, and managing director, Bangalore Robotics.