Course Content
There are 8 lessons in this course:
1. Types of Robots
- A Brief History of Robotics
- Types of Physical Robots
- Components of a Robot -body, drivetrain, manipulators, controls, end effectors, sensors
- Principles of Robotics
- Robotic Terminology
- Classifying Robots
- Cartesian Robots
- Cylindrica Robots
- SCARA - articulated robotic arms
- Delta Robots
- Articulated Robots
- Classifications based on mode of operation
- Classifications based on operation
- Classifications based on movement
2. Robotic Actuators
- Hydraulic Articulator
- Pneumatic Articulator
- Electrical Articulator
- Synchronous Articulator
- Mechanical Components of Robots- power supply, control system, manipulator, motors, levers, gears, pulleys, links and joints etc.
- Types of Joints
- Robot Movement - PTP movements, CP movements
3. Robotic Sensors
- Types of Sensors - light sensors, photoresistors, photovoltaic cells, sound sensors, proximity sensors.
- Temperature sensors
- Tactile Sensors
- Acceleration Sensors
- Navigation, positioning Sensors
- Distance Sensors
- Other sensors - pressure, tilt, voltage, current, humidity, gas, etc
- Devices for sensing
- Signal Processing
- Challenges - accuracy and precision, safety, digital infrastructure
4. Power Supply & Control Systems
- Power Supply - mains, batteries, hybrid systems
- Battery specifications
- Alkaline Batteries
- Lead acid batteries
- Lithium ion batteries
- Lithium polymer batteries
- Nickel- Metal hydride batteries
- Photo volaic cells, Fuel cells
- Control Systems - open loop, closed loop
- Types of Robot Control Techniques - on/off, proportional, integral, linear time variant, etc
- Control Systems Used in Robots
- Point to Point Control
- Continuous Path Control
- XYZ Control
- Positive Stop Control
5. Kinematics
- Introduction - Kinematics explained
- Forward Kinematics
- Reverse/Inverse Kinematics
- Configuration and Workspace
- Structure of Robots based on joints, topology, position
- Configurations and Configuration Space - Degrees of Freedom
- Kinematic Pairs
- Floating Bases & Virtual Linkages
- Joint Limits & Configuration Space
- Configurations for Parallel Mechanisms
- End Effectors and Reachable Workplaces
6. Cybernetics
- Robot Brain connecting biology and engineering
- Electrical & Chemical Synapses
- Neurotransmitters
- Reflex Arches
- Cybernetics explained
- Artificial Brain Cells
- Enhanced Mobility
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybernetic Applications
- Developments in Autonomy
7. Robot Maintenance
- Introduction
- Why Maintenance?
- Components of a Robot
- Electrical Components - Resistors, Capacitors, Inductors, Transformers, Diodes, Transistors, integrated circuits, Switches, Fuses, etc
- Robot Maintenance Methods
- After Breakdown Maintenance
- Preventative Maintenance
8. Applications
- Introduction
- Industrial Robots
- Logistics/Handling and Transport of Robots
- Robot Manufacturing
- Service Robots in Health care - Telepresence, surgical, rehabilitation, Bionics, health monitoring
- Sanitation and Disinfection of Robots
- Domestic Use - Vacuum Robots, pool cleaning, lawn mowing, etc
- Education Service Robots
- Defence Industry Robots, etc
Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school's tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.
Aims
Define a robot and discuss different types of robots.- Describe different types of robotic components.
- Describe a variety of sensors used in robotics.
- Describe different options for power supply, and different control systems in robots.
- Explain the application of kinematics to robotics.
- Discuss cybernetics and its application to robotics.
- Determine maintenance procedures to be applied with different types of robots.
- Explain a range of different applications for robots in different industries.
Why Study Robotics with ACS?
With automated systems replacing many tasks previously performed by humans, and with many simple devices in our daily lives now featuring such technology, having knowledge of robotics will help equip your skill set for the future.
The ACS Robotics course will help you learn about the different applications of robotic components, and how these are maintained.
With ever more human processes being replaced by automated systems, enabling increases in productivity and within finer operational tolerances, it is important to understand the range of uses and applications of robotic componentry.
Our Robotics course is studied by Distance Learning, either online or by eLearning. Our highly experienced and knowledgeable tutors will provide you with the necessary support and guidance whilst you study.
Our courses are available for you to start at any time; simply head to the "It's easy to enrol" box at the top of this page and enrol today!