Description: The ‘closed loop’ is a fundamental method in robotics that allows a robot to correct errors in its estimated trajectory. This process involves the continuous feedback of sensory data that the robot collects while moving, enabling it to adjust its behavior in real-time. Through sensors such as cameras, LIDAR, or accelerometers, the robot can compare its current position with the desired position, identifying deviations and making necessary corrections. This approach not only improves the accuracy of the robot’s movement but also enhances its ability to adapt to dynamic and changing environments. Closed loop is essential in applications where precision is critical, such as automated manufacturing, autonomous navigation, and human-robot interaction. The implementation of this method can vary from simple control systems to complex artificial intelligence algorithms, depending on the complexity of the task and the environment in which the robot operates.
History: The concept of closed loop in robotics dates back to the early days of automation and control systems. In the 1940s, automatic control systems began to be developed that used feedback to improve the accuracy of machines. With technological advancements, especially in the 1980s, closed-loop control systems became more sophisticated, integrating sensors and data processing algorithms. Modern robotics has adopted these principles, allowing robots to operate more autonomously and efficiently in complex environments.
Uses: Closed loop is used in various robotic applications, including the autonomous navigation of vehicles, where robots adjust their trajectory based on environmental information. It is also applied in industrial robotics, where robotic arms use feedback to perform assembly tasks with high precision. Additionally, in service robotics, such as cleaning robots, closed loop allows devices to adapt to different room configurations and obstacles.
Examples: A practical example of closed loop is the navigation system of autonomous vehicles, which use LIDAR and cameras to map their environment and adjust their route in real-time. Another example is the use of robotic arms in production lines, where sensors allow robots to correct their position and perform assembly tasks with millimeter precision. Additionally, delivery drones use closed loop to adjust their flight based on environmental factors and obstacles in their path.
