Robotics (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Computer Science)
Revision Note
Written by: Robert Hampton
Reviewed by: James Woodhouse
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
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
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 defaults, 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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