Introduction to Robotics

Robotics has revolutionized automation, integrating complex tasks with high efficiency. From manufacturing to healthcare, robots perform with precision and adaptability, far beyond human capabilities, operating 24/7 in various conditions without fatigue.

The first industrial robot, Unimate, was introduced in 1961, transforming the automotive industry. Today's robots exhibit advancements in AI, machine learning, and sensor technology, enabling them to learn and improve their tasks over time.

Cobots work alongside humans, enhancing safety and productivity. Equipped with sensors, they can detect human presence and adjust their actions to ensure safety, representing a growing trend in workplace automation.

Medical robotics, specifically da Vinci Surgical Systems, allow for minimally invasive surgeries with improved precision. Such robots reduce patient recovery time and the risk of infection, showcasing robots' potential to save lives.

AMRs navigate without human intervention, using sensors and maps. They're revolutionizing logistics, capable of moving materials efficiently within warehouses, reducing lead times and human workload.

While robotics in automation may displace certain jobs, they also create new opportunities in robot maintenance, programming, and supervision, leading to a shift in workforce skills and demands.

Future robotics may raise ethical questions around autonomy and decision-making. As robots become more integrated into society, determining the boundaries of robot responsibilities and human control becomes paramount.

Researchers have created robotic bees capable of pollinating flowers, potentially ensuring food security amidst declining bee populations.