Engineering: The design, creation, and maintenance of structures, machines, systems, processes, and products. Engineers use their knowledge of science and mathematics to solve practical problems.
Mechanics: A branch of physics related to the behaviour of physical objects when subjected to forces or displacements. A mechanical system is a collection of mechanical components working together to perform a task. these range from simple devices, like a windmill to complex machinery, such as an aircraft engine.
Electronics: A branch of physics and engineering that deals with the behaviour of electrons (electrically charged particles). It involves the design and creation of electronic circuits, and systems that use electric current to perform tasks. This includes simple electronic components like resistors and capacitors, complex integrated circuits (such as a CPU), and electronic systems such as computers and communication devices.
Computer: A computer is a programmable electronic device capable of receiving, processing, and storing data to perform tasks according to predefined instructions (programs). It consists of hardware components—including a central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, input/output (I/O) devices, and networking components—as well as software programs that control its operation and enable users to interact with it.
Robotics: The combination of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to design, construct, and program autonomous or semi-autonomous machines capable of carrying out tasks in the physical world. It involves the use of sensors and actuators.
Mechatronics: Mechatronics combines mechanical, electronic and software engineering to create computer controlled machines. Robotics is a subset of mechatronics, related specifically to autonomous, self-directed devices.
Motion sensors
There are several types of motion sensor, including ultrasonic, microwave and tomographic, all of which send out a signal and look for change in the return pattern, This is the same principle behind echolocation.
PIR
Motion sensors in home security and security systems generally rely on passive infrared (PIR) sensors. Humans and animals release heat which is a form of infrared energy, If the sensor detects a rapid increase in infrared energy, something is approaching the sensor.
They can be set to ignore small changes in infrared energy, so they won’t trigger an alarm if the family cat or dog walks by, or if the household temperature fluctuates slightly.
Light level sensors
Light sensors detect and measures the intensity or brightness of light. They typically use a photodiode, which converts ambient light into electrical current. The most common use of these is in automatic street lights, which turn on when the light level falls below a certain threshold. They are also used in digital devices to automatically adjust screen brightness.
Liquid level sensor
Liquid level sensors measure the level of liquid in a container. One common type is the float switch. The sensor is made of a buoyant material (such as foam or plastic) and a magnet, and floats at the top of the liquid. The magnet activates a switch at certain levels, which sends an electrical signal.
Actuator
Electrical actuator
An electrical actuator, like a motor, works by converting electrical energy into mechanical action. The motor contains magnets. When the electrical current flows through the motor, it creates electromagnetic forces that interact with the magnetic field, causing the motor’s rotor to turn. This motion can be used to perform various tasks such as moving machinery, spinning wheels, or driving pumps.
Hydraulic Actuators (Linear)
A hydraulic actuator contains a chamber filled with pressurised fluid (usually oil) and a piston. When hydraulic fluid is added, it pushes against the piston, causing it to move. This movement generates force or motion at the output end of the actuator. When the flow of hydraulic fluid is reversed, the piston returns to its original position. An electronic pump can be used to repeatedly add or remove fluid, resulting in repetitive linear motion.
End effectors
End effectors are the part of a machine that manipulate external objects. There are two main types of end effector: tools and grippers. Tools perform specific process, such as welding or spray painting. Grippers take hold of objects.
Common types of grippers
Parallel Jaw Grippers:
- Various sizes and strengths
- Precise position and force
- Known for speed and reliability
- Compliant jaws can be used for delicate work
- Particularly useful in packaging, manufacturing, and in assembly lines.
Vacuum grippers:
- Most effective for flat, smooth-surfaced items like glass, plastic, and metal sheets.
- Commonly used in industries requiring precise positioning and minimal contact, such as food packaging, printing, and electronics production.
- Various pad shapes and sizes available