Robotics, a branch of mechanical engineering, is a deep field. Engineers come up with new applications every day to help us do things we could not have imagined before. Different types of robots are used in various fields. A few of them are mentioned below. Choose your favourite one!
Space robots
What lies in the depths of space has always intrigued us. And so, we keep sending space missions to find out what lies out there. However, it is not always possible to send an astronaut. This is where intelligent space robots come in. The research area includes developing robots that can function in an uneven, unstructured terrain and perform multiple tasks such as collecting samples, image evaluation, terrain modelling and so on.
Underwater robots
The sea holds many mysteries — new and unique creatures, sunken ships and so many other things. Underwater robots use artificial intelligence methods to function underwater and explore its depths. This field includes development of systems for remote controlled underwater vehicles, intelligent cameras that can take pictures underwater and energy efficient methods of transport for underwater vehicles.
Search and rescue, and security robots
Earthquakes, tsunamis, building collapse…disasters cannot always be averted. They are beyond our control. At such a time, search and rescue robots play a crucial role in searching for survivors through the rubble and debris and bringing them out them safely. The robots operate in harsh conditions and are designed in such a way that they can sustain. The field also includes research in 3D mapping of unstructured environments so that people can be easily located.
Agricultural Robots
In a country such as India, which is heavily dependent on agriculture, having some technical assistance can go a long way in helping millions of people and reducing the workload of farmers. In many developed countries, the agriculture industry is already automated. In this field, robots help in tasks such as weeding, applying fertiliser, harvesting, pruning and so on. However, the technology is a bit expensive now and engineers are trying to develop more affordable options. The robots are fitted with cameras to monitor the crops and keep stray animals in check, too.
