Robotics Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (9–1) revision
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In plain words
A robot is a machine that can be programmed to carry out tasks on its own. Robotics is the branch of computer science that deals with designing, building and operating them.
5 things to know
- Robotics is a branch of computer science that incorporates the design, construction and operation of robots. Examples: factory equipment, domestic robots and drones.
- A robot has three characteristics. It has a mechanical structure or framework. It has electrical components, such as sensors, microprocessors and actuators. And it is programmable.
- Robots are used in industry (welding and assembling), transport (self-driving vehicles), agriculture (harvesting and weeding), medicine (surgery), domestic settings (vacuum cleaners) and entertainment.
- Advantages: robots work without getting tired, are precise and consistent, and can work in conditions that are dangerous for people.
- Disadvantages: they are expensive to buy and maintain, they can replace workers, and they struggle with tasks they were not programmed for.
Worked example
A car factory replaces welders with robot arms. Give one benefit and one drawback.
- Benefit: every weld is made with the same precision, all day and night, so quality is consistent and more cars are made.
- Drawback: the robots are expensive to buy and maintain, and the welders may lose their jobs.
Tips and tricks
- The three characteristics are worth learning word for word: a mechanical structure, electrical components, and programmable.
- A robot does not have to look like a person. A drone and a robotic vacuum cleaner are both robots.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Robotics: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
What is robotics?
Design, construction and operation.
Which is a characteristic of a robot?
It also has a mechanical structure and electrical components.
Which of these is a robot?
It has a mechanical structure and electrical components, and it is programmable.
Which is an advantage of using robots in a factory?
Heat, fumes and heavy loads do not harm them.
Which is a disadvantage of using robots?
They are also expensive to buy and maintain.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 5 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Robotics
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (9–1) 0984 · 5 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
State the three characteristics of a robot.[3]
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It has a mechanical structure or framework. It has electrical components such as sensors, microprocessors and actuators. It is programmable.
Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using robots in medicine.[2]
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Advantage: a robot can make smaller and more precise movements than a surgeon's hand. Disadvantage: the equipment is very expensive.
Answers: Robotics
- 1. It has a mechanical structure or framework. It has electrical components such as sensors, microprocessors and actuators. It is programmable.
- 2. Advantage: a robot can make smaller and more precise movements than a surgeon's hand. Disadvantage: the equipment is very expensive.