Subtopic Notes
6.2 - Robotics
6. Automated and emerging technologies
Branch of computer science that incorporates the design, construction and operation of robots.
Example: Factory Equipment, domestic robots and drones
Characteristics of robots
- Mechanical structure or framework
- Electrical components, such as sensors, microprocessors and actuators
- Programmable
Types of robot
- Dumb robots
- Do the same work repeatedly (Uses no AI)
- Example: Car assembly line
- Smart robots
- Does complex works and can learn using AI
- Example: Delivery robots
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industry | Assembly Painting Packaging Quality control | Higher productivity Consistent and accurate Reduced costs Safer | High Initial cost Unemployment Dependency on skilled labor for maintenance |
| Transport | Warehouse Worker Delivery Traffic management | Higher productivity Consistent and accurate Accessibility in remote locations | High risk in case of malfunction Legal challenges Cybersecurity risks |
| Agriculture | Crop monitoring Planting & harvesting Pest control Soil analysis | Consistent and accurate Operate in diverse weather conditions | High initial cost Not suitable for smaller farms There might be skill gap |
| Medicine | Surgical assistance Diagnostics Patient monitoring Rehabilitation | Consistent and accurate Reduced recovery time Personalized therapy | High cost Training requirements Risk of technical error No personal interaction |
| Domestic Settings | Cleaning Lawn care Companion robots | Convenient Time savings Assistance for elderly/disabled | Expensive Piracy concerns Potential for malfunction |
| Entertainment | Interactive toys Gaming Live performances | Enhances user experiences Unique interactive content | Expensive Over-reliance Ethical concerns Can’t replace human teacher |