FAQs About Robotic Automation

Although robots might seem more science fiction than fact, robots have actually seen use in industrial and commercial enterprises for years. An industrial robot is any manipulator that is reprogrammable, automated and is movable in three axes. Since the single-arm industrial robots that manufacture cars fit this description, most cars owe their existence to robotic automation.

Q: Is robotic automation expensive?

A: Although almost any toy store has kits that allow children to build a technical robot, these obviously cannot handle the workload of industrial versions. Still, the basic operation and programming is the same. In that regard, a robot can go for less than $100.

Q: Where did the term "robotics" come from?

A: The term is originally from a Czech play. A science fiction writer named Issac Asimov popularized the term "robotics" to describe his fictional world and science. When the age came about, the term stuck.

Q: How is robotic automation used today?

A: In the auto industry, the industry most populated by robots, these devices were originally used to only manipulate objects and assist with heavy lifting. With improved technology, these industrial robots now handle everything from painting to welding, requiring only supervision and occasional maintenance.

Q: How is a robot programmed?

A: Although advanced programming is done by a professional, simple programs and basic commands are set up using a device very similar to a joystick and a video game screen. A 3D projection of the working area displays the environment, and a worker sets up a series of tasks for a robot to perform, such as welding a bolt and painting a door.