Page 174 - Toucpad robotics C11

VIVA VOCE

1. What makes a robot different from a simple machine?
Ans. Robots can be programmed and automated to perform tasks with sensors, controllers, and actuators,
unlike machines which perform only fixed mechanical work.
2. Why is the term “robot” linked with the idea of forced labor?
Ans. The word comes from the Czech term robota meaning forced labor, introduced in Karel Čapek’s play
R.U.R. in 1921.
3. Explain degrees of freedom (DOF) in robotics with an example.
Ans. DOF = independent movements possible. Example: A human arm has 7 DOF (shoulder 3, elbow 1, wrist 3).

4. How does workspace differ from payload in a robot?
Ans. Workspace is the reachable area of the end-effector; payload is the maximum weight the robot
can handle.
5. Why are omni and mecanum wheels important for mobile robots?
Ans. They allow sideways and diagonal movement without turning the chassis, enabling high mobility in
tight spaces.
6. What role do algorithms play in robotic computing?

Ans. Algorithms are step-by-step instructions that define how the robot processes input and produces
output.
7. Differentiate between microcontrollers and single-board computers.
Ans. Microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino) are for real-time sensor/actuator control, while SBCs (e.g., Raspberry
Pi) handle complex tasks, multitasking, AI.
8. Why is Boolean logic the foundation of computing in robots?
Ans. It reduces decisions to true/false outcomes using logic gates (AND, OR, NOT), enabling robots to execute
binary instructions.
9. How does PWM control motor speed?

Ans. By varying the duty cycle of voltage pulses, PWM regulates average power to motors, adjusting speed
smoothly.

10. What is the difference between open-loop and closed-loop control?
Ans. Open-loop has no feedback (e.g., toaster timer); closed-loop uses feedback sensors (e.g., AC thermostat)
for accuracy.
11. Why are servo motors suitable for robotic arms?
Ans. They provide precise angular positioning with feedback, essential for tasks like gripping or welding.

12. Give two practical applications of ultrasonic sensors in robotics.
Ans. Obstacle detection in autonomous vehicles and distance measurement in parking assistance systems.
13. Why was the Unimate robot historically significant?
Ans. It was the first industrial robot (1961) used in automobile welding, starting automation in manufacturing.

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