Robotics (Cambridge International IGCSE Computer Science)
Spec point —
6.2.1· 1 Understand what is meant by robotic
Robotics
What is robotics?
- Robotics is the principle of a robot carrying out a task by following a precise set of programmed instructions
- Robots can be categorised into two groups:
| Dumb robots | Smart robots |
|---|---|
| Repeat the same programmed instructions over and over again (no AI) | Carries out more complex tasks and can adapt and learn (AI) |
| E.g. Car assembly line | E.g. Assisting surgeons in delicate procedures |
-
The development of artificial intelligence, including the increased use of machine learning and robotics raises ethical and legal issues such as:
- Accountability
- Safety
- Algorithmic bias
- Legal liability
Characteristics of a Robot
Spec point —
6.2.2· 2 Describe the characteristics of a robot
What are the characteristics of a robot?
-
Robots share three common characteristics:
- Mechanical structure
- Electrical components
- Programmable
| Mechanical structure | Electrical components | Programmable |
|---|---|---|
| A physical body that can move and interact with the environment | Sensors, microprocessors and actuators | Designed to follow a precise set of instructions |
The Role of Robots
Spec point —
6.2.3· "3 Understand the roles that robots can perform and describe the advantages and disadvantages of their use"
The Role of Robots
What is the role of robots?
- Robots play a crucial role in many areas such as:
| Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industry | Quality inspector | Advanced vision to inspect products for defects, improving quality control | May not work on defects that might require human judgement |
| Transport | Warehouse worker | Efficiency in finding, moving and packing, less reliable on manual labour | High infrastructure costs and potential safety concerns for human workers sharing the same space |
| Agriculture | Planting & seeding machine | Precise planting (optimum depths and distances) | High upfront costs, may struggle with uneven terrain and changing weather conditions |
| Medicine | Rehabilitation therapist | Personalised physical therapy exercises to aid recovery | Doesn't provide emotional support |
| Domestic | Sous chef | Assists with meal prep by doing basic duties (chopping, measuring and following basic recipes) | Limited ability and capabilities |
| Entertainment | Educational robot | Interactive learning experiences for children, increased engagement | High cost, cannot replace the guidance of human teachers |
Worked Example A company uses robots in its factory to manufacture restaurant tables and chairs
(i) One characteristic of a robot is that they contain electrical components.
State two other characteristics of a robot.
[2]
(ii) Give two advantages to company employees of using robots to manufacture tables and chairs.
[2]
(ii) Give one disadvantage to the company’s owners of using robots to manufacture table and chairs
[1]
Answers
(i)
- Mechanical structure
- Programmable
(ii)
- Employees don't need to lift heavy items
- Employees can be protected from dangerous tasks
- Employees can utilise their skills in other tasks
- Employees don’t need to perform repetitive/mundane tasks
(iii)
- Expensive to install/purchase/setup
- High ongoing costs/maintenance costs
- May deskill the workforce
- If they malfunction, production may stop
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