Sensors Make Industrial Robots Smarter – But Can We Handle The Smart House Wars?

Industrial robots already have the knack for brainy tasks such as pick-and-place, welding and assembly, but with the help of advanced sensors, these robots are getting even smarter.

Nimble, Sensitive Fingers

Sensors are being incorporated into robotic hands and arms to give them the delicate touch of a human hand. Advanced sensors measure the force, position, and movement of their robotic fingers and arms so they can maneuver products gently and precisely.

Reading The Room

Robots can now navigate their environment with the help of vision-based sensors. These sensors help the robots recognize objects and determine the safest path ahead using 3D lasers to perceive distance and direction.

The Future

As sensors become more advanced, they give robots the ability to interact with their environment and learn on their own. Soon, these advanced robots may make humans redundant in warehouses, factories, and other areas of industrial work.

But Is it All Fun And Games?

While robots with better sensing and decision-making capabilities are exciting, they also bring with them ethical problems. Will these robots be able to operate within ethical boundaries? Are smart robots the beginning of the end for human workers? Will intelligent robots one day become so powerful that we can’t control them?

Only time will tell, but for now, it seems that smarter robots are indeed helping to make our industrial processes more efficient.

How Can YOU Use Sensors to Make Your Robot Smarter?

If you’re looking to upgrade your existing robot, start by looking into the following sensors:

• Camera Sensors help a robot “see” its environment and understand objects.
• Force Sensors allow the robot to apply precise amounts of force and pressure.
• Touch Sensors help the robot to recognize objects and detect any irregularities.
• Accelerometer helps the robot keep its balance and navigate its environment.

Getting the robotic brain up to speed takes more than just adding sensors. You’ll also need the right software and algorithms to enable your robot to make the most of its sensory capabilities.

At the end of the day, industrial robots are only as smart as the sensors, software, and humans that make up their “brains.” Smart robots may be the future, but for now, it’s up to us to ensure we can handle the “Smart House Wars”!