Understanding Robotics

Understanding Robotics is an introductory text on robotics and covers topics ranging from from the components of a robotic system, including sensors, to the industrial applications of robotics. The major factors justifying the use of robots for manufacturing are also discussed, along with the use of robots as a manufacturing tool, their impact on people, and the future of robotics. This book is comprised of eight chapters and begins with an overview of the roots of robotics and the use of robots in the manufacturing environment; advances in robot technology and typical applications of robots; reasons for using robots in the manufacturing environment; and the different manufacturing functions they perform, including visual inspection and intricate welding operations. A definition of the word ""robot"" is presented, and the impact of robots on jobs is considered. Subsequent chapters focus on the elements of a robot system, including the computer/controller, actuator power drive, and sensors; sensor applications in robotics; robotic usage by industry; economic justification of robotics; manufacturing technology and the role robotics can play in improving the United States' competitive manufacturing position; and the impact of robots on people and vice versa. The final chapter is devoted to market trends and competitiveness of the U.S. robotics industry and assesses the future prospects of robotics. This monograph should be a valuable resource for technologists and researchers interested in robots and robotics.

Preface Acknowledgments Acronyms And Abbreviations

1. Robotics Comes of Age Introduction to Robotics Why Use Robots? Robots Defined Roots of Robotics Robot Technology Typical Applications The Robot Industry Impact on Jobs Safety International Leadership Now and the Future
2. Components of a Robotic System Elements of a Robot System Manipulator System Computer/Controller Actuator Power Drive End-Effector Tooling Fixtures and Tooling Accessories Robot Sensors System Characteristics
3. Sensors for Robotic Systems Introduction to Sensors Sensor Applications in Robotics Sensor Integration General Purpose Sensors Machine Vision Sensors Summary
4. Application of Robotics Evolution of Robotic Application Robotic Usage by Industry Robot Applications Implementation Factors Systematic Approach to Robot Application
5. Justification of Robotics Background Economic Factors Economic Analysis Methods RobotJustification Analysis RobotJustification Basic Program
6. Robots—A Manufacturing Tool The Role of Manufacturing Competitive Manufacturing Historical Perspective on United States Manufacturing Current Role of the Manufacturing Function Recent Performance of United States Manufacturing Impact on the United States Economy World Class Competitiveness Competitive Robotics
7. Robots and People Impact of Robotics
8. A Glimpse of the Future Market Trends and Competitiveness Key Market Impact Issues International Interdependence Technology Trends The Future of Robotics Appendix A: Glossary of Terminology Appendix B: Points of Contact Bibliography Index