APPLICATIONS OF ROBOTS

Following a brief historical overview of robot technology, this paper describes the three basic types of mechanical arms and their applications in industry, including the automobile industry. It then addresses the question of where we are headed with the lines of machines that we see today. Also included is a discussion on what is being done with robots in Europe and Japan. In conclusion, some points about robots that should be considered when deciding to use one are offered. Briefly these points are: keep it simple; don't pick the solution before you have identified the problem; don't get snowed by the myth that there aren't enough robots to go around; involve the people; and learn from your mistakes.