Robotics Terminology

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anthropomorphic

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An object that is humanlike in form or has human attributes.

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artificial intelligence (AI)

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The ability of a computer program to make decisions based on known information.

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automaton

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An object made by a person that moves automatically. This term was originally used for what we now consider to be a robot.

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flexible automation

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Machinery capable of performing a variety of tasks.

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hard automation

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Machinery specifically designed and built to perform particular tasks within an assembly line.

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industrial robot

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A multifunction manipulator programmed to perform various tasks.

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machine-to-machine (M2M)

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A modern robotics communications technique that allows machines to communicate with other machines through the use of sensors and the internet.

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manipulator

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The arm of the robot that moves materials, parts, tools, or special devices through various motions to provide useful work.

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manual manipulator

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A manipulator worked by a human operator.

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numerically controlled (NC) robot

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A manipulator that can perform the sequence of movement, conditions, and positions of a given task, which are communicated by means of numerical data.