Description: A programmable robot is a mechanical device that can be configured to perform specific tasks by programming instructions. These robots are capable of carrying out a variety of functions, from simple tasks to complex processes, depending on their design and capabilities. Programming can be done through different languages and platforms, allowing users to customize the robot’s behavior according to their needs. Programmable robots are fundamental in industrial automation, education, and research, as they offer flexibility and precision in executing repetitive or hazardous tasks. Their relevance today lies in their ability to improve efficiency and reduce costs in various applications, as well as their potential to interact with other systems and technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT).
History: Programmable robots have their roots in the 1950s when George Devol and Joseph Engelberger developed the first industrial robot, Unimate, in 1961. This robot was designed to perform welding tasks in the automotive industry. Over the decades, robotics technology has evolved, incorporating advances in computing and control, allowing for the creation of more sophisticated and versatile robots. In the 1980s and 1990s, robotics expanded into other sectors, including medicine and education, due to decreasing costs and improved accessibility of technology.
Uses: Programmable robots are used in a wide variety of applications, including manufacturing, where they perform assembly, welding, and painting tasks. They are also common in education, where they are used to teach programming and robotics concepts to students of all ages. In research, these robots are employed to conduct experiments in controlled environments. Additionally, in medicine, they are used in surgical procedures and patient rehabilitation.
Examples: An example of a programmable robot is the KUKA industrial robot, which is used in factories to perform assembly and material handling tasks. In the educational field, robotics kits like LEGO Mindstorms allow students to program robots to perform various tasks. Another example is the da Vinci surgical system, which is used in robot-assisted surgery, enabling surgeons to perform procedures with greater precision.
