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Page 18 - Toucpad robotics C11
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    How Robots Operate: The Core Components

                  To understand how a robot works, it’s helpful to break it down into its main functional parts, much like understanding the
                  different systems in the human body.

                  Mechanical Structure (The Body)

                                                                     Manipulator: This is similar to a human
                                                                     arm that has different joints and flexibility

                                                                     End-effector: The end-effector represents the palm and
                                                                     fingers of a human, meaning  it  can firmly grasp and
                                                                     manipulate objects in the more advanced robotic arms

                                                                     The Locomotor: In a human, muscles control the movement.
                                                                     In  a Robotic  arm, motors  control the  movement  with
                                                                     Electric, either Hydraulic or Pneumatic energy resources

                                                            Actuator

                  This refers to the physical build of the robot, enabling it to move and interact with the physical world.
                      Manipulators and Actuators: These are the moving parts that enable the robot to perform actions.
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                         Actuators are the “muscles” of the robot, converting energy (usually electrical) into mechanical motion. Common
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                         actuators include:
                         �   Electric Motors: Used in most robots for rotational movement (e.g., wheels, robotic arm joints).
                         �   Hydraulic Systems: Use pressurised fluid for powerful, heavy-duty movements (e.g., large industrial robots,
                             construction machinery).
                         �   Pneumatic Systems: Use compressed air for quick, lightweight movements (e.g., pick-and-place robots).
                         Manipulators are the arms or limbs of the robot, built from segments connected by joints, allowing a range
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                         of motion.
                      End-Effectors: These are the specialised “hands” or tools attached to the end of a robot’s manipulator, designed for
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                      specific tasks.
                         Grippers: For picking up and holding objects (e.g., in assembly lines).
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                         Welders: For joining metal parts (e.g., in car manufacturing).
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                         Sprayers: For painting or coating.
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                         Drills, cutters, cameras, sensors: And many more, depending on the application.
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                  Touchpad Robotics - XI

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