Robotics & AI: Reading Material for Class IX

1. Introduction to Robotics & AI

I. Understanding Robots
 What is a Robot?

A robot is a programmable machine capable of carrying out a series of actions automatically, either
autonomously or under human control. Robots can interact with their environment through sensors,
perform tasks using actuators, and make decisions based on programming.

 Definition and Characteristics of Robots:

Robots have three primary characteristics:

A. Sensors to sense (Input Devices)

Role in a Robot: Input devices, also known as sensors, gather information from the robot's
surroundings and provide data to the robot's processor. These sensors act as the robot's "senses" (similar
to human senses) and include devices like cameras (vision), microphones (hearing), touch sensors
(touch), and temperature sensors (temperature).

Examples:

o Light Sensors: Detect the intensity of light and provide input data that can be used to
determine brightness levels or the presence of an obstacle.
o Ultrasonic Sensors: Measure distance to objects using sound waves, helping robots
navigate around obstacles.
o Touch Sensors: Detect physical contact or pressure, useful for collision detection or
recognizing when an object is held.
 B. Processors to think (Brain)

Role in a Robot: The processor is the "brain" of the robot. It reads input data from sensors, processes
it based on predefined programs, and controls outputs accordingly. The processor runs the robot's
software, which includes algorithms and logic to interpret data, make decisions, and send commands.

Types:

o Microcontroller: A compact processor designed to handle a single task at a time in robotic

systems. It is commonly used in basic robots for tasks like following a line.
o Microprocessor: A more powerful processor capable of handling complex computations
and multitasking.

C. Actuators to act (Output Devices)

Role in a Robot: Output devices, also known as actuators, perform actions in response to signals from
the processor. They allow the robot to interact with its environment by moving, producing sounds, or
displaying information.

Examples:

o Motors: Convert electrical signals into mechanical movement, enabling robots to move
their wheels, arms, or other parts.
o Speakers: Produce sound based on electrical signals, allowing robots to provide audio
feedback or communicate.
o LEDs: Light up to indicate status or provide visual signals, such as turning on a light when
a task is completed.

 Benefits of Using Robots Compared to Humans:

o Increased Quality: Robots offer high precision and consistent performance, reducing
errors in repetitive tasks.
o Increased Productivity: Robots can work continuously without breaks, enhancing
overall productivity.
o Increased Efficiency: Robots can handle complex and time-consuming tasks faster
and more efficiently than humans.
o Longer Working Span: Robots do not tire, allowing them to work for extended
periods without rest.
o Working in Hazardous Environments: Robots can be deployed in dangerous
environments (e.g., nuclear plants, underwater exploration) where human safety is at
risk.
 o Improved Workplace Safety: Robots can reduce workplace accidents by performing
dangerous or repetitive tasks.

II. Evolution of Robots

 Brief History of Robots:

o Early 1900s: The concept of robots emerged in literature and science fiction.
o 1950s-60s: Development of the first industrial robots, such as "Unimate," used in
manufacturing.
o 1970s-80s: Introduction of programmable robots in industries; growth in robotics
research.
o 1990s: Robots entered consumer markets (e.g., robot vacuums).
o 2000s-Present: Development of advanced AI, humanoid robots, drones, and
autonomous vehicles; robots are now used in various fields such as healthcare,
education, and the military.

 Definition of Robotics:

Robotics is the field that involves the design, construction, operation, and use of robots—machines that
can perform tasks automatically or semi-autonomously. Robots can vary from simple toy robots that
move in a straight line to complex robotic arms used in manufacturing or autonomous drones. Robotics
combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence
to create machines that replicate or assist human actions.

III. Three Laws of Robotics by Isaac Asimov (Statements only):

1. A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to
come to harm.
2. A robot must obey the orders given by human beings, except where such orders would
conflict with the First Law.
3. A robot must protect its existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the
First or Second Law.

IV. Classification of Robots

 Field/Terrain-Based Classification:
o Aerial Robots: Robots that operate in the air (e.g., drones, aerial surveillance robots).
o Ground Robots: Robots that operate on land (e.g., autonomous cars, robot vacuums).
o Underwater Robots: Robots that operate underwater (e.g., ROVs - Remotely
Operated Vehicles used in ocean exploration).
 Control-Based Classification:
o Manual Robots: Robots that human operators control are said to be manual robots
(e.g., remote-controlled drones).
o Automatic Robots: Robots that operate autonomously without human intervention
(e.g., self-driving cars, robotic lawnmowers).
 Bio-Inspired Robots:

Robots are designed to mimic biological organisms to perform specific tasks.

o Humanoids: Robots that resemble the human body (e.g., ASIMO by Honda).
o Birds: Robots designed to mimic bird flight for aerial surveillance (e.g., RoboBird).
o Snakes: Snake-like robots for search and rescue missions in confined spaces.
o Insects: Tiny robots inspired by insects for environmental monitoring (e.g.,
RoboBees).

V. Real-World Robots and Their Applications

 Domestic Robots: Used for household tasks like cleaning and cooking (e.g., robot vacuums
like Roomba).
 Industrial Robots: Used in factories for tasks like welding, painting, and assembly (e.g.,
robotic arms in automotive manufacturing).
 Medical Robots: Used in healthcare for surgery, diagnostics, and patient care (e.g., Da Vinci
surgical robot).
  Defense Robots: Used in military applications for surveillance, bomb disposal, and combat
(e.g., PackBot by iRobot).
 Entertainment Robots: Used for amusement, interactive displays, and shows (e.g.,
animatronics in theme parks).
 Agricultural Robots: Used in farming for planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops (e.g.,
autonomous tractors and drone sprayers).

VI. Artificial Intelligence (AI):

AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines programmed to think and learn. It allows
robots to make decisions based on data, learn from their environment, and improve their performance
over time. Everyday examples of AI include voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, which use natural
language processing to understand commands and provide relevant responses. AI is what gives robots
the ability to adapt and operate in dynamic environments.

2. Introduction to Electronics

I. Voltage
Voltage is the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit, driving the flow of current.
It is like the "pressure" that pushes electric charges through a circuit, similar to how water pressure
pushes water through a hose. Higher voltage means more "pressure," which can cause more current to
flow if the resistance remains constant.

II. Current
Current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, such as a wire. It is analogous to the flow of
water in a river, where the amount of water flowing through a point is like the electric current. Current
is measured in amperes (A) and is essential for powering electronic devices.

III. AC (Alternating Current)

AC is a type of electrical current that periodically reverses direction. It is commonly used in homes and
businesses for powering large appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and lights. AC can be easily
transmitted over long distances, which is why it is used in the power grid.

IV. DC (Direct Current)

DC is a type of electrical current that flows in one direction. It is commonly used in batteries, small
electronic devices, and robotics because it provides a stable and continuous flow of electricity. Most
small devices and circuits, such as those in toys and robots, operate on DC power.
 V. Unipolar vs. Bipolar Characteristics:
 Unipolar LEDs: Operate with a single positive and negative terminal (forward and reverse
bias) for current flow.
 Bipolar Lamps: Typically incandescent, current can flow in either direction without
affecting operation.

VI. Introduction to Circuits

 What are Electrical Circuits?

Electrical circuits are pathways for the flow of electricity. They consist of various components,
including power sources (like batteries), conductive paths (wires), and loads (devices that consume
electricity, like bulbs or motors).

 Open and Closed Circuits:

o Open Circuit: When the switch is in the off position, electricity cannot flow, and the
circuit is "open."
o Closed Circuit: When the switch is in position, electricity flows, and the circuit is
"closed."

VII. Connections:
Series Connection: Components are connected end-to-end, and the current flows through all
components sequentially. If one component fails, the entire circuit is interrupted.

Parallel Connection: Components are connected across the same voltage source, allowing current to
flow independently through each component. If one component fails, the rest continue to operate.
VIII. Understanding Switches
 Types of Switches:
o Push Button: A push button is a momentary switch that allows current to flow while
pressed. It is used in applications where temporary operation is needed, such as
doorbells or reset buttons on devices.
o Slide Switch: A slide switch is a switch that maintains its position (on or off) until
manually changed. It is often used in toys and small electronics for stable and
maintained connections.
o Magnetic Switch (Reed Switch): A reed switch operates using a magnetic field. When
a magnet is brought near the switch, the reed contacts close and allow current to flow.
It is commonly used in security systems to detect when doors or windows are opened
or closed.

IX. LED (Light Emitting Diode)

An LED is a unipolar device that emits light when an electric current flows through it in one direction.
LEDs are energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and are used in many applications, including indicator
lights, digital displays, and lighting. They require a resistor to limit the current and prevent them from
burning out.

X. Lamp
A lamp is a bipolar device that emits light through the heating of a filament (in incandescent bulbs) or
gas discharge (in fluorescent bulbs). Unlike LEDs, lamps often consume more power and have shorter
lifespans. They are still widely used in traditional lighting applications.

XI. LEDs vs. Lamps

 LEDs vs. Traditional Lamps:
o Function: LEDs emit light when electricity flows through them, while lamps (like
incandescent bulbs) produce light by heating a filament.
 o Efficiency: LEDs are more energy-efficient, converting more electricity into light and
less into heat, unlike traditional lamps.
o Applications: LEDs are used in electronic displays, indicators, and lighting; traditional
lamps are commonly found in older households and street lighting.

3. Introduction to Tinkercad

I. Why We Need Tinkercad

 Importance in Learning and Designing:
o Tinkercad helps visualize and simulate 3D models and electronic circuits, making it
easier to understand complex concepts.
o It is an accessible tool for beginners to learn basic electronics and 3D design.
 Applications in Education and Engineering Projects:
o Used in schools to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
concepts.
o Useful for engineers to create prototypes and models without expensive software.

II. What is Tinkercad

 Overview of Tinkercad:
o Tinkercad is an online platform that provides tools for 3D modeling, electronics design,
and coding. It allows users to create and simulate circuits virtually and design objects
in 3D.
 Main Features and Capabilities:
o Easy-to-use interface for beginners.
o Tools for building and simulating electronic circuits.
o 3D modeling tools for designing printable objects.
o Arduino integration for programming and controlling electronic projects.

III. How It Works

 Basic Navigation and User Interface:
o A straightforward drag-and-drop interface for placing components and shapes.
o Work plane for arranging 3D objects or circuit elements.
 Step-by-Step Guide for Creating 3D Models and Circuits:
o Select components from the toolbar.
o Arrange and connect components on the workspace.
o Use coding blocks or text editor for Arduino programming.
 Examples of Simple Projects:
o Creating a basic LED circuit Projects
 4. Projects

I. Building Basic Circuits with LED, Lamp, and Switches

 Objective:
 To learn how to construct simple circuits using LEDs, lamps, and switches.
 Understanding Circuit Elements:
o LEDs: Learn to connect LEDs in a circuit, including polarity considerations.
o Lamps: Understand how to connect traditional lamps and compare them with LEDs.
o Switches: Different types of switches are used to control the flow of electricity.

II. Building and Simulating an LED Blinking Circuit in Tinkercad

 Objective:
 To create an LED glowing circuit using Tinkercad's virtual components.
 Step-by-step explanations with graphical user interface: <https://www.tinkercad.com/>
NB: Please read the FIRST chapter of the Robotics and AI book thoroughly.