Page 46 - Toucpad robotics C11

ROBOT DYNAMICS

The term “robot” comes from the Czech word robota meaning forced labor.
Robotics is a multidisciplinary field involving mechanics, electronics, and computing.
Robots differ from ordinary machines because they can be programmed and automated.
Major robot types: manipulators, mobile robots, humanoids, social robots, and space robots.

Unimate was the first industrial robot, introduced in automobile factories.
Sensors give robots the ability to sense their environment.
Actuators are like “muscles” that enable robots to move.
Controllers act like the “brain” by processing input and sending output signals.

Robots are widely used in industries, healthcare, defense, space, and disaster response.
Robotics is a cornerstone of the future workforce and technological innovation.

RESEARCH ACTIVITY 21 st
Century #Experiential Learning
These three activities mix theory (history + sensors) with practical application Skills
(virtual robot building)—making the learning process balanced, fun, and inquiry-driven.
1. Exploring Robot "Senses"

l Task: Pick two robots you’ve seen (it could be a vacuum cleaner robot, a drone, or even a robot shown
online like Boston Dynamics’ Spot). Research what sensors they use (camera, ultrasonic, Lidar, tactile,
etc.) and explain how these sensors help them “see” or “feel.”
l Output: Create a comparison chart showing Robot A vs Robot B with their sensors, functions, and
real-world applications.

l Learning Outcome: Understand the connection between human senses and robotic sensors.
2. Mini-History of Robotics Timeline
l Task: Research 5 major milestones in robotics history (e.g., automatons of ancient Greece, Unimate, Mars
Rover, Da Vinci Surgical System, Humanoid Robots like Sophia).
l Output: Prepare a short-illustrated timeline (hand-drawn or digital) with dates, images, and short notes.
l Learning Outcome: Develop perspective on how robotics evolved from simple machines to AI-driven
systems.
3. Build Your Own Virtual Robot

l Task: Use a free simulator (like Tinkercad Circuits or VEXcode VR) to design a simple robot or robotic
arm. Program it to perform a basic task like moving forward, turning, or picking an object.

l Output: Take screenshots or a short screen-recording of your robot in action with a brief written
explanation.
l Learning Outcome: Experience hands-on how programming, sensing, and actuating come
together to make a robot functional.

44
Touchpad Robotics - XI