Introduction to Robotics

by Colin D. Simpson, Ray Santers (Editor), Stan Nikipierowicz (Illustrator)

The textbook, Introduction to Robotics , provides complete coverage of the concepts of industrial robots and explains how they can be used in a plant or manufacturing system. The primary focus of the book is on automated manufacturing processes as well as the role of robots and all support equipment. Areas of study include motion programming, palletizing, conveyor systems, computer networking, automated sorting systems, vision and tactile sensors, and computer integration. The book provides a unique interdisciplinary treatment of robotics, and shows the contributions of the various fields of mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering, and computer science, to robotics. It covers state-of-the-art topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics simulators such as RoboLogix, object-oriented software, communications systems, and micro- and nano-robots. Introduction to Robotics is intended for students who will install, design, repair, maintain, and develop industrial robotic systems. The level of content is suitable for colleges, universities, and technical institutions. Students using this book should have an understanding of algebra up to quadratic equations and of trigonmetry to the simple properties of triangles. Knowledge of programming languages is useful, but not essential. This well-illustrated volume, with its numerous worked-out examples and chapter-ending questions, is sure to become indispensable in bridging the gap between design, automation, and control. The material covered in Introduction to Robotics reflects the new generation robotics developments. It is a powerful educational resource for students, engineers, and managers. It provides information on designing and building robotic manufacturing cells, and explores the capabilities of today's industrial equipment as well as the latest computer and software technologies. Special attention is given to the input devices and systems that create efficient human-machine interfaces, and how they help non-technical personnel perform necessary programming, control, and supervision tasks. The book covers such topics as end effectors, safety, programming, applications, machine vision, artificial intelligence an related socio-economic considerations. Key topics in the book - Current industrial robotic equipment including manipulators, control systems, and programming environments. - Software interfaces that can be used to develop distributed industrial manufacturing cells and techniques which can be used to build interfaces between robots and computers. - Comprehensive treatment of robotic programming techniques. - Real-world applications with practical examples.

417 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008