Commercial Robots are generally defined as machines specifically designed to replicate, assist, and substitute humans’ actions. While humanoid robots are usually showcased exaggeratedly through movies, the real robots are designed to focus on their main functions in diverse industries. Today, there are multiple types of robots developed and applied in the demanding sector. The robotic coverage would be broadened near the future following the progressive development of mechanical and intellectual aspects.

Characteristics of Robots

With the growth of technology developments and broadened industrial machines’ applications, there is disambiguation, whether it’s a plain machine or a robotic machine. 15 years ago, robots were rarely seen outside the automobile industries, but today, we can even see robots being used in medical procedures and law enforcement. Robots actually have specific characteristics that differentiate them from non-robot machines. These include

A machine can be called a robot, is built with mechanical constructions specifically designed to complete particular tasks they’re assigned in the industry. Mechanical arms for screwing or welding are considered robots, and so are robotic arms for a medical operation.

A robot would need a semi-independent and/or independent power source to operate as a battery or other part with electrical components for powering and controlling.

To some extent, a robot would have computing codes that cover its particular tasks. The codes tell the robot what it does, whether it’s gripping, moving, welding, pressing, and so forth. Programmers would insert a set of codes into the robot to know how and when to perform the assigned tasks.

Industrial robots have become enormous in terms of quantity and quality with progressive developments. Today, robots carry out risky and more complex tasks where humans can’t even perform. The implementation of artificial intelligence in robotics would be more common in the future.  

Common Types of Robots

As you might have known that robots come in diverse appearances, dimensions, and of course, functions. There are actually five common types of robots currently used in multiple industries. 

Pre-programmed Robots

Most industrial robots are pre-programmed, which means they’re assigned to complete simple and recurring tasks. Pre-programmed robots typically have one task and are designed for efficiency and endurance in assembly lines. The use of pre-programmed robots is used to replace humans in the manufacturing working area.

Autonomous Robots

Autonomous Robots refer to fully-programmed robots and operate independently. These robots are used and assigned to complete tasks where humans don’t need to supervise the operation. This type of robot has wider applications than others. You can even find autonomous robots for home uses like automatic vacuum cleaners, auto wash, autonomous vehicles, and many more. The goal of autonomous robots is to assist and support humans with their work and lifestyle.

Humanoid Robots

Have you ever seen robots that behave or act like a human? Carrying objects or running? They’re humanoid robots designed to perform activities just like a human. Some ambitious manufacturers even produce humanoid robots that mimic the appearance of real humans. These advanced humanoid robots, in fact, are getting more similar to us.

Teleoperated Robots

Unlike autonomous robots, teleoperated robots are fully controlled by humans. These mechanical bots are used typically to do tasks in extreme conditions that are too risky for humans, like rough weather, landscapes, depth, or altitudes. Teleoperated robots are used in mining, underwater plumbing, military, and even surgical procedure. Manufacturers design these mechanical bots for particular applications with strict certifications. Virtual Reality(VR) may also be applied in teleoperated robots.

Augmenting Robots

Augmenting Robots is a human-supporting robot specifically designed to enhance or replace a person’s capabilities in performing particular tasks. For example, you may find many home depot or warehouse employs robotic exoskeletons worn by their employers to help them lift heavy items while suffering their limbs and joints. Some advanced prosthetic limbs are already installed with augmenting robots that allow the wearer to grip or walk again.

Robot Implementations

As previously mentioned, robotic implementations have broadened and covered diverse industries and applications. Co-bots are now employed to help humans in the manufacturing industry side by side. Surgeons use teleoperated robots to assist them in performing surgical procedures. Some robots help to diffuse bombs, rescuing people, or fighting forest fires. There would be more restaurants and retailers that use robots for deliveries. Warehouse robotic applications are getting popular, initiated by major e-commerce platforms.

These are some common robot implementations in diverse industries. 

Manufacturing Industries

The oldest and most popular robotic implementations are in the manufacturing industries. These robots are employed alongside humans to produce diverse goods more efficiently. While the automobile industry was renowned for having this tech earlier, most manufacturers currently employ robots in their factories. Millions of robots are now employed in the manufacturing industries regardless of what products they make. 

Logistics Industries

Modern logistics currently employ robots to support vital tasks. Whether it’s a shipping company or retailer, they may apply robotic systems in their warehouse, posts, and factory area. These robots are beneficial in finding, moving, transporting, and even packaging goods more efficiently. With the support of robots in their system, logistics companies can now provide quick yet responsive service to their customers.

Home Uses

Modern households are now thanking robots for good jobs. Today, more homes are now employing robots to support and even replace household pivotal tasks. You can now sit down while your autonomous mower tidying up your backyard and autonomous vacuum suck all dirt and debris on your floor. More robotic houseware products would be available in the market soon.

Vehicles and Transportation

Today, autonomous vehicles are no longer fiction, as it has already become a reality. More automobile brands produce vehicles with a semi-autonomous or fully autonomous mode. Robotic implementation is elaborated with data science to support the progressive development of autonomous vehicles currently available in the market. In some countries like Japan and China, autonomous public transportation modes are already implemented.

Healthcare and Medical

Robots have been used in healthcare for years, even before they get more popular like nowadays. Many surgeons worldwide have been using specifically designed mechanical bots to assist them in performing critical surgeries. Today, many hospitals also employ robots to support their healthcare assistance, pharmacy, therapy, cleaning services, and so forth.