Robotics Fundamentals

Components of Robots

Discover the essential building blocks that bring robots to life - from sensors that see the world to actuators that make them move

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Sensors

The Eyes and Ears of Robots

Sensors are the primary way robots perceive and understand their environment. They convert physical phenomena into electrical signals that the robot's brain can process.

Vision Sensors

Cameras and image sensors that allow robots to see and recognize objects

Examples:

RGB camerasDepth sensorsInfrared cameras

Applications:

Object recognition, navigation, quality inspection

Proximity Sensors

Detect objects and obstacles in the robot's vicinity

Examples:

Ultrasonic sensorsInfrared sensorsLaser rangefinders

Applications:

Obstacle avoidance, distance measurement, safety systems

Touch Sensors

Detect physical contact and pressure

Examples:

Tactile sensorsForce sensorsPressure sensors

Applications:

Grip control, safety, human-robot interaction

Motion Sensors

Measure acceleration, rotation, and orientation

Examples:

AccelerometersGyroscopesInertial Measurement Units (IMU)

Applications:

Balance control, navigation, motion tracking

🤖 How It All Works Together

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Sensors

Gather environmental data

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Controller

Process and decide

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Actuators

Execute movements

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Power

Provide energy

Data Flow

🎯 Key Takeaways

1

Sensors are the foundation

Without good sensors, robots can't perceive their environment effectively

2

Power systems limit capabilities

The choice of power source affects size, weight, and operating time

3

Controllers coordinate everything

The brain processes sensor data and controls actuators

4

Actuators bring motion to life

They convert electrical signals into physical movement