Robotics
The uses of robots have lagged behind expectations in unstructured or changing environments and in applications where goals or performance requirements change (e.g., in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing and elsewhere).
Abstract
Robots, machines with precise motion capabilities, repeatability, strength, and endurance, have been successfully applied in structured environments having little uncertainty, especially in manufacturing applications. Accurate motion and force sensors, advanced servo-level control systems, and programmable logic controllers (PLC) have allowed uses in processes including welding, assembly tasks, spray painting, palletizing, machine loading, and elsewhere [Groover et al. 1986]. However, the uses of robots have lagged behind expectations in unstructured or changing environments and in applications where goals or performance requirements change (e.g., in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing and elsewhere). We are now on the verge of breakthroughs that will radically increase the scope of applications of robots and other sophisticated machines.