Robotics is a fascinating field, a blend of engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence, is forging a future where human capabilities are extended, creating endless possibilities. 

As we stand on the cusp of a new era, industrial robots are a catalyst for change, driving technological development and even upping the quality of products. 

In this article, we’ll answer, “What is robotics?” thoroughly, and by the end, you’ll be an expert on what this ever-innovating field — and industrial robots — can do for you. 

We’ll cover:

• What is robotics, and what are robots?
• History of robotics
• Components, types, and applications of robots
• Design and development processes
• Ethical and social considerations
• Current trends and future directions
• Case studies and real-world examples
• Educational and career pathways in robotics

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What is a robot?

By definition: A robot is a programmable machine that can perform jobs. Robotics is the study and development of robot automation and robotic systems.

The word robot comes from the Czech word “robota,” which means “forced labor.” The word first appeared in the 1920s R.U.R. play and referenced the play's characters, who were mass-produced, creative-thinking beings.

Robots have come a long way in a relatively short space of time. Innovative industries have discovered that the use of robotics gives tangible results that increase productivity and safety in the workplace.

Some robots, like collaborative bots (or cobots), are designed to work alongside humans, harnessing machine learning and complex computer programming to easily assist human employees. Other types of robots, like autonomous robots, work independently with minimal human intervention. For more on cobots, explore our article about collaborative robots.

Currently, the robot-human ratio stands at 1:71, with industrial industries set to invest 25% of their capital in industrial automation within the next five years. Statista reports that the global robotics market is projected to grow by 9.49% between 2025 and 2029, bringing the market value to $73.01 billion by 2029. This growth is transforming the future as we know it.

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What is robotics?

As we mentioned, robotics is the study and development of robots and their robotic systems. Robotics is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering and science that combines various engineering disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, information, and computer science.

Robotics vs. automation

Robotics often overlaps with automation, but robot characteristics are different from mere automation.

Automation refers to systems that perform jobs automatically, often without real-time adaptability, while robotics involves machines capable of intelligent decision-making and interaction with their environment through sensors and AI.

The robotics industry deals with design and construction, bridging the gap between various engineering aspects to create machines that can replicate or surpass human actions.

Operation in robotics involves implementing and using advanced AI, machine learning, and computer science to program these devices to perform the relevant jobs.

Control systems in robotics use the latest technology in robot computing systems, such as software (e.g., computer programs) and hardware aspects (e.g., robot arms). Chatbots used in customer service are an example of software robotic programming.

Sensory feedback is a critical aspect, as engineers incorporate machine learning and AI into robotic systems, allowing robots to perceive their surroundings and make decisions based on sensory data.

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History of robotics

Early concepts of robotics date back centuries, with automatons like Leonardo da Vinci’s mechanical knight in the 1490s, designed to mimic human movements through pulleys and gears.

The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point, introducing mechanized production and steam-powered machines, laying the groundwork for modern robotics by automating repetitive jobs.

Milestones in modern robotics began in the 20th century, with George Devol’s invention of the Unimate Robot in 1954, the first programmable robot. In 1961, the Unimate was introduced to the General Motors assembly line in New Jersey, USA, laying the foundation of the modern robotics industry as we know it today.

Learn more about the history of robots here. 

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Fundamental components of robot technology 

Robots are complex machines comprising several key components, each serving a crucial function. This section delves into these robotic components and how they work together to bring a robot to life.

Components Overview

Control systems

The control system is like the robot's brain, a sophisticated network of software, like computer programs, using algorithms and programming to dictate the behavior of the robot. Hardware elements, like camera vision, process data and direct the robot's actions.

The hardware typically includes a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output interfaces. The control system receives and processes input from sensors, transmitting commands to the robot's actuators to perform jobs.

The processed data can range in complexity, from simple predefined responses to more advanced AI-driven decision-making, enabling robots to adapt to various scenarios.

Sensors

Sensors are components that give robots the ability to perceive, sense, and “feel” their surroundings. They are the primary source of external information for the robot, kind of like human hands.

The CPU uses this data to make informed decisions and map out its surroundings. There are various types of sensors that robots are installed with, such as touch, vision, auditory, and environmental sensors.

Actuators

Actuators are the “muscles” of the robot, devices that convert various forms of energy into physical motion, like walking or picking up objects. The energy conversion can be from electrical energy to mechanical energy, or from hydraulic pressure to movement.

There are various types of actuators, including electric (common in modern robotics for fine control), hydraulic (for powerful movements), and pneumatic (for quick, repetitive jobs).

Power supply

The power supply is the component that provides energy for robots to operate. It is a critical part of the robot design as it affects its size, endurance, power, and speed.

There are various types of power supplies, including battery-operated (e.g., lithium-ion batteries for mobile units), solar systems (for outdoor robots), and electrical units (for stationary robots).

End effectors

End effectors are the “hands” of robots, the tools at the end of a robotic arm. They are the points of intersection between the robot and its environment and are designed for specific jobs.

Different types of end effectors available include grippers, welding torches, drilling and fastening tools, painting tools, and cameras or sensors for inspection and quality control.

Integration of components

The true power of robots lies in the seamless integration of their components. The control system acts as the brain and interprets data from several sources.

It uses this information to make informed decisions, sending instructions to the actuator “muscles” to create the desired movement. In turn, this tells the end effectors what job is required, enabling jobs from delicate surgical procedures to space exploration.

Mechanical structures and design

Mechanical structures form the skeleton of a robot, determining its shape, durability, and range of motion. Designs vary from rigid frames for industrial robots to flexible structures for soft robotics.

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Types of robots

When robots were first introduced, they were bulky and less streamlined. Now, they are sleek, sophisticated machines that are no longer “nice to haves” but “must haves,” especially in the industrial industry to stay ahead of the curve.

There are many types of robots, from simple machines with a single robotic arm to military robots, autonomous robots, and humanoid robots. These intelligent robots perform repetitive jobs and assist humans with varying degrees of automation within diverse professions. We’ve put together an overview of the different types of robots below.

‍These robotic systems optimize processes and improve safety in the workplace. Let’s explore some key types of robots and their roles in detail.

Autonomous robots

There are two types of autonomous robots: Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). These robots operate with minimal human intervention, enhancing efficiency.

Autonomous mobile robot: Description and function

AMRs, otherwise known as autonomous vehicles, operate independently: They are capable of navigating and operating in an uncontrolled environment without the need for physical guidance from humans or predetermined tracks.

They are equipped with computer vision and AI, using machine learning to navigate their surroundings. Often used in factories and warehousing, AMRs assist with material handling, inventory management, and order fulfillment.

Automated guided vehicle robot: Description and function

AGVs follow preset tracks within a designated workplace. This type of programmable robot is guided by sensors or markers along the ground.

They are commonly used in large warehouses or manufacturing plants to transport goods from one area to another. A palletizing robot is one example of an AGV.

Articulated robots

Articulated robots are multi-jointed robots, with arms meant to work in the same way as a human arm. They can have as few as two joints, or up to 10 rotary joints that allow for various degrees of motion.

They are incredibly versatile, can work in confined spaces, and complete complex jobs like assembly, welding, painting, and material handling, such as packing and sorting.

Humanoid robots

Humanoid robots are bipedal robots, designed to look and act like human beings. These robotic systems are equipped with artificial intelligence to engage with their surroundings in a human-like manner.

They feature facial expressions that express emotions and mimic human behavior, fostering interaction and connection.

In 2017, Hong Kong-based company Hanson's Robotics created Sophia — the most famous humanoid robot. Designed to study human behavior and equipped with advanced AI and visual data processing, Sophia can form genuine human relationships and is the first humanoid robot to be granted Saudi Arabian citizenship.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hanson's Robotics designed the Grace robot to assist humans in the medical industry. Grace was able to take patients' temperatures, read pulse rates, and communicate sympathetically with patients in a human-like manner.

A humanoid robot can also be used for entertainment, creating an emotional connection like laughing. An example is Disney's Na'vi Shaman robot, which welcomes guests at The World of Avatar in Animal Kingdom.

Collaborative robots

A collaborative robot — cobot for short — is a robotic system specifically designed to work alongside humans in a shared space. They are not intended to replace human employees.

Cobots are more user-friendly when compared to larger robotic systems (such as assembly line automation) and are easily programmable. This type of mechanical device has sensors and safety features to detect human presence, creating a safe working environment.

Cobots are used mostly in manufacturing settings, such as workshops, research labs, aerospace, and the health care industry. Universal Robot's UR20, launched in 2022, is one example of an industrial cobot.

Industrial robots

Industrial robots are a cornerstone of modern manufacturing. They automate repetitive, high-precision jobs, boosting productivity and safety.

Examples include robotic arms used for welding, painting, and assembly in automotive production lines. For more on their impact, see What are industrial robots? Everything you need to know.

Service and domestic robots

Service robots assist with routine jobs, such as Aethon's TUG robot, which moves items between departments in hospitals. Domestic robots, like iRobot's Roomba, automate household chores such as vacuuming.

Medical and surgical robots

Medical robots, like the da Vinci Surgical System, assist surgeons with minimally invasive procedures, improving precision and reducing recovery times. Rehabilitation robots, such as the HARO Robot Suit, aid in physical therapy.

Military and defense robots

Military robots, like AlphaDog, assist troops by searching for explosives in hazardous conditions, enhancing safety in dangerous environments.

Exploration and space robots

Exploration robots, such as space rovers, perform jobs in extreme environments, like Mars exploration, where human presence is impractical.

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What are robotics used for? Applications 

Robots are used for tasks that enhance productivity, safety, and precision across a wide range of fields. They assemble products in factories, monitor crops on farms, assist in surgeries, streamline warehouse operations, and even perform life-saving search and rescue missions. 

The field of robotics has had a transformative impact across various sectors, enhancing efficiency and safety through automation.

Manufacturing

Robots have turned the manufacturing industry on its head by enhancing efficiency, safety, and innovation. They perform repetitive jobs like welding, painting, quality control, and assembly with ease, boosting productivity, speed, and consistency.

Agriculture

In agriculture, robots are used for planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops, helping analyze growing conditions. The use of automated drones to spray pesticides greatly reduces labor costs and increases crop yields.

Energy

In the energy sector, robots perform jobs like inspecting and maintaining infrastructure, especially in hazardous conditions. These robots inspect offshore oil rigs, drastically reducing health and safety risks.

Health care

Robotics in the health care industry ranges from surgical robots to telemedicine robots and automated laboratory systems. This type of robotic assistance enhances procedures, precision, and patient recovery times while reducing surgeon fatigue.

Shipping and delivery

Logistic robots assist humans with warehouse operations, such as transporting (loading and unloading) goods from one area to another. The use of automated warehousing systems and delivery drones reduces the risk of human error and boosts productivity.

Entertainment and education

Robots in entertainment, like Disney’s Na'vi Shaman, create immersive experiences, while educational robots, such as Dash and Dot, assist students in learning coding and robotics concepts.

Disaster response and public safety

Search and rescue robots perform dangerous jobs, scouring for survivors in unsafe environments during disasters. Examples include Elios and Kobra bots, used in missions to enhance public safety.

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Technological foundations

There are many technologies enabling robotics to operate at the staggeringly high level we see today. 

The most important are: 

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning enable robots to adapt and make decisions, improving their autonomy and efficiency in jobs like navigation and object recognition.
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• Computer vision and image processing allow robots to interpret visual data, critical for applications like autonomous navigation and quality control in manufacturing.
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• Speech recognition and natural language processing empower robots to understand and respond to voice commands, as seen in humanoid robots like Sophia.
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• Human-robot interaction focuses on designing intuitive interfaces, ensuring safe and effective collaboration, especially with collaborative robots.
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• Networking and cloud robotics enhance robots’ capabilities by enabling real-time data sharing and remote processing, improving scalability and performance.

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Design and development processes

Building a robot involves a series of critical steps to ensure functionality and reliability in real-world applications.

These are the core stages:

1. Conceptualization and requirements analysis involve defining a robot’s purpose, such as automating a specific job, and identifying necessary features like precision or mobility.
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2. Mechanical and electrical design includes creating the robot’s structure and integrating electrical systems like sensors and actuators for functionality.
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3. Prototyping and simulation allow engineers to test designs virtually, identifying issues before building physical models, saving time and resources.
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4. Programming and algorithm development provide the software backbone, enabling robots to process data, make decisions, and execute jobs efficiently.
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5. Testing, validation, and deployment mean the robot meets performance standards through rigorous trials before deployment in real-world settings.

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Ethical and social considerations

The rise of robotics brings complex challenges that impact society on multiple levels.

These are the main concerns:

• Job displacement and economic impact are important concerns, as robotics may reduce manual labor needs, although it also creates new roles in robot design and maintenance.
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• Privacy and security concerns arise with robots collecting data, necessitating robust safeguards to protect sensitive information in applications like health care.
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• Legal and regulatory frameworks are evolving to address liability, safety standards, and ethical use of robots in public and private sectors.
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• Roboethics and moral implications involve ensuring robots are designed with ethical principles, such as avoiding harm and respecting human autonomy.
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• Public perception and acceptance vary, with some embracing robots for their benefits, while others fear job loss or misuse, requiring education and transparency.

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Current trends and future directions

Robotics is evolving rapidly, with innovations opening new possibilities for automation across industries.

Here are the leading trends:

• Advancements in AI integration are improving robots’ decision-making, making them more autonomous and capable of complex jobs across industries.
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• Development of soft robotics introduces flexible, adaptable robots for delicate jobs, such as medical procedures or human interaction, expanding robotics applications.
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• Expansion of collaborative robots (cobots) continues, with user-friendly designs enabling safer human-robot collaboration in diverse settings like small workshops.
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• Growth of autonomous vehicles is accelerating, with AMRs and AGVs transforming logistics, warehousing, and even urban delivery systems.
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• Emerging applications in various industries include robotics in construction (e.g., SAM100) and disaster response, broadening the scope of automation.

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Case studies and real-world examples

Robotics has already proven its value through practical implementations in diverse fields.

These examples highlight its impact:

• Robotics in automotive manufacturing showcases industrial robots like those on General Motors’ assembly lines, improving speed and precision in welding and assembly. 
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• Surgical robots in health care, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, enable minimally invasive procedures, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing recovery times. 
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• Drones in agriculture automate jobs like pesticide spraying and crop monitoring, increasing efficiency and reducing labor costs for farmers. See how drones are transforming farming practices.
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• Autonomous delivery robots streamline logistics, with robots like those used in warehousing handling order fulfillment and reducing human error. Explore how autonomous robots are hyper-leveling logistics.
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• Robots in hazardous environment exploration, such as space rovers or search and rescue bots like Elios, perform jobs in extreme conditions where humans cannot safely operate. Read about robots tackling these environments. 

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Educational and career pathways in robotics

The robotics field offers a wealth of opportunities for those eager to shape the future of automation.

These are the ones to look out for: 

• Academic programs and courses in robotics span engineering, computer science, and AI, offered at universities like MIT and Stanford, preparing students for the field.
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• Skills and competencies required include programming (e.g., Python, C++), mechanical design, and problem-solving, alongside knowledge of AI and machine learning.
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• Industry certifications and training, such as those from the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), validate expertise in robot operation and programming.
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• Career opportunities and job roles range from robotic engineers to AI specialists, with demand growing in manufacturing, health care, and tech sectors.
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• Professional organizations and communities, like the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, provide networking, resources, and conferences for professionals.

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FAQs

What do robotic engineers do? 

Robotic engineers develop and create robotic systems used to perform human and non-human jobs, installing computer programs for jobs like pick-and-place, welding, or logistics. Robotic engineers design mechanical components, write software algorithms, and integrate sensors to ensure robots operate safely and efficiently. Their work also involves testing and troubleshooting systems, constantly refining the technology to meet industry demands.

What programming languages are commonly used in robotics?

Languages like Python, C++, and Robot Operating System (ROS) are widely used for their flexibility and support in robot programming. Other languages include Java, which is used in robotics for its platform independence and scalability, making it suitable for large-scale industrial automation systems. Furthermore, Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB) is widely used for mathematical computing and simulation, typically used in robotics research and development for modeling and control.

Can robots learn and adapt to new jobs? 

Yes, robots equipped with AI and machine learning can adapt by analyzing data and improving performance over time, as seen in AMRs. For instance, Boston Dynamics' Atlas robot shows advanced adaptability by performing complex tasks independently, such as moving engine covers and navigating dynamic environments without human intervention.

How does artificial intelligence enhance robotic capabilities? 

AI enables robots to process data, make decisions, and interact intelligently, improving autonomy in applications like humanoid robots. For example, in agriculture, AI-powered drones autonomously survey fields, detect crop health issues, and optimize resource use, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Similarly, in health care, robotic-assisted surgeries use AI to enhance precision, reduce risks, and improve patient recovery times. 

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Summing up

As you can see, the realm of robotics has impacted many industries across the globe and continues to do so. From their humble beginnings in the ’60s, when General Motors first introduced the Unimate Robot into assembly lines, to Standard Bots’ sophisticated RO1 collaborative robot seen today, there has been a remarkable evolution in robotics history.

The global robotics market revealed over 500,000 new installations in 2024, maintaining the pace from the year prior. These statistics show how vital robots are to the industrial industry.

With Statista’s projections of the global market reaching $73.01 billion by 2029, we can only imagine what other types of robots lie on the horizon, driven by the expanding robotics industry.

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Next steps with RO1 by Standard Bots

RO1 is more than a six-axis cobot, it’s a way to bring your shop floor into 2025 without breaking the bank.

• Affordable and flexible: Get top-tier performance for half the cost of competitors. Leasing starts at $5/hour, so automation is no longer out of reach.
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• Handles the tough jobs: With repeatability of ±0.025 mm and an 18 kg payload, RO1 can handle assembly, pick and place, CNC machine tending, TIG welding, material handling, and more.
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• AI-driven and ridiculously easy to use: RO1’s no-code programming means anyone on your team can master it. Advanced AI comparable to GPT-4 means smooth operation.
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• Safe to work with: Machine vision and collision detection let RO1 operate safely alongside your team without barriers.

Book your risk-free, 30-day onsite trial today and let RO1 take your jobs to the next level.