Definition of Robots

One of the difficulties in dealing with the word "robot" is the wide variety of definitions. No two are exactly alike. Robots come in all shapes and sizes, but only in the most abstract sense do they resemble the mechanical men portrayed in science fiction. Some definitions permit the idea that robotic processes allow for some human intervention. This explains in part why the Japanese statistics show Japan to be so far ahead in the manufacture and use of robots. Most American definitions consider robots to be entirely automatic. Essentially all would agree that a single industrial robot, in addition to a power unit, has a computerized controller and some form of manipulator. The father of Unimation, George Devol, gives a straightforward definition of a robot as a standalone, digitally controlled piece of equipment that can pick up and position almost anything in any direction and in almost any plane and that uses information from computers and gives information to computers.

Another definition states that basically, robots are microprocessor-controlled mechanical devices that perform functions or provide an intelligent interface between machines and processes. They can be intelligent enough to make on-the-spot manufacturing decisions. They can duplicate human manipulative skills with accuracy and precision.

The Robot Institute of America has coined a definition commonly accepted by many writers. Tt states that a robot is a reprogrammable, multifunctional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, or specialized devices trough variable programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks without human intervention. Today's commercially available robots, in addition to being programmed to follow a complex sequence of instructions, can also be modified through electromechanical means without changing hardware.

Robots are of several types. Distinctions are often made between low, medium, and high technology, but basically it is the manner in which robots are controlled that serves as the basic distinction. There are the non-servo controlled robots programmed by setting up a sequence of moves or mechanical stops.

These are the familiar "pick-and-place" robots, simple to operate and easy to program and maintain. The servo-controlled robots are more complicated. The programmed moves are recorded in a memory. They have greater flexibility and can store more than one program. When linked together with electronic controls, a series of operations can be connected in a manufacturing sequence - computers linked to computers. They are even capable of replacing worn-out or broken drill bits and other implements. Managers will find an exellent glossary of terms provided by Obrzut. The newer robots are capable of imitating the human sense of sight, hearing and touch.