Robotics Key Terms & Acronyms
This reference page is divided into two sections:
- Glossary of Robotics Terms – A collection of key robotics terms defined in clear, accessible language for students, engineers, and enthusiasts.
- Robotics Acronyms & Abbreviations – A list of common acronyms with their full forms and brief explanations of their significance in robotics.
I. Glossary of Robotics Terms
A
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Actuator
A device that converts energy into physical motion, enabling robots to move or manipulate objects. Actuators can be powered electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically. -
Algorithm
A step-by-step procedure or set of rules designed to perform a specific task in robotics. Algorithms are essential for processing sensor data, making decisions, and executing control strategies. -
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The simulation of human intelligence in machines through computational models and algorithms. In robotics, AI drives autonomous decision-making and adaptive behavior. -
Autonomy
The capability of a robot to operate and make decisions independently without human intervention. This is achieved through the integration of sensors, control systems, and intelligent algorithms.
B
- Behavior-based Robotics
An approach where robots use multiple simple behaviors that interact to produce complex actions. Each behavior addresses a specific task, contributing to overall functionality.
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Calibration
The process of adjusting sensors and actuators to ensure accurate measurements and movements. Proper calibration is critical for achieving precision in robotic operations. -
Closed-loop Control
A control system that continuously monitors its output via feedback and adjusts inputs accordingly. This approach enhances accuracy and stability during operation. -
Control System
A system that manages and regulates a robot’s behavior by processing sensor data and executing control algorithms. It ensures that the robot’s actions are precise and responsive. -
Compliance Control
A control strategy that allows a robot to adapt its motion in response to external forces or environmental uncertainties. It is vital for safe human–robot interaction and delicate task execution.
D
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Degrees of Freedom (DoF)
The number of independent movements a robot can perform. More degrees of freedom allow for more complex and versatile actions. -
Differential Drive
A locomotion method in which two independently driven wheels control a robot’s movement. By varying the speed of each wheel, the robot can turn, pivot, or move in a straight line. -
Dynamics
The study of forces and torques and their impact on the motion of robotic systems. A thorough understanding of dynamics is essential for modeling and controlling robots.
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Embedded System
A dedicated computer system integrated within a robot to control specific functions in real time. It combines hardware and software to manage operations efficiently. -
End Effector
The tool or device attached to the end of a robotic arm that interacts with the environment. Examples include grippers, welders, and cameras.
F
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Feedback Control
A mechanism that uses sensor data to continuously adjust a robot’s operation and minimize errors. This often involves a feedback loop to maintain desired performance. -
Force Feedback
Technology that transmits tactile sensations from a robot back to its operator. This feedback enhances precision and control during teleoperation. -
Force Sensor
A device that measures physical forces, such as pressure or tension. It helps robots adapt their grip and interact safely with objects. -
Forward Kinematics
The calculation of a robot’s end effector position and orientation from known joint parameters. This process is fundamental for controlling robotic configurations.
G
- Gripper
A mechanical device used by robots to grasp, hold, or manipulate objects. Grippers come in various designs, including parallel, multi-fingered, or suction-based.
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Haptic Feedback
Technology that provides tactile sensations to convey information about physical interactions. In robotics, it enhances the operator’s intuitive control during remote operations. -
Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)
The study and design of effective communication and collaboration between humans and robots. HRI aims to create systems that are safe, intuitive, and responsive. -
Humanoid
A robot designed to resemble the human body in form and function. Humanoids are often used for research in human–robot interaction and in environments built for people. -
Hydraulics
A system that uses pressurized fluids to create mechanical motion. Hydraulics is commonly employed in heavy-duty robots requiring high force and durability.
I
- Inverse Kinematics
The process of determining the joint configurations needed for a robot’s end effector to reach a desired position. It is essential for precise motion control in robotic arms.
J
- Joint
A point of connection between two or more parts of a robot that enables movement, such as rotation or translation. The type of joint (e.g., revolute, prismatic) influences the robot’s range of motion.
K
- Kinematics
The branch of mechanics that studies the geometry of motion without considering the forces involved. In robotics, kinematics is vital for planning and controlling movements.
L
- Learning-based Control
An approach that integrates machine learning techniques into a robot’s control strategy, allowing the system to adapt and improve over time.
M
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Mapping
The process of creating a digital representation of an environment using sensor data. Often referred to as environmental mapping, it is crucial for navigation and obstacle avoidance. -
Mechanical Design
The discipline of designing the physical components and structure of a robot. Effective mechanical design ensures durability, efficiency, and optimal performance. -
Mechatronics
An interdisciplinary field combining mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and control engineering to create intelligent robotic systems. -
Microcontroller
A compact integrated circuit that executes control functions within a robot by processing sensor inputs, running control algorithms, and managing actuators. -
Middleware
Software that facilitates communication and data exchange between different components of a robotic system. It promotes modularity and scalability. -
Mobile Robot
A robot capable of moving within its environment, typically using wheels, tracks, or legs. Mobile robots are used in applications ranging from exploration to delivery. -
Mobility
The ability of a robot to move or be repositioned within its environment. This capability is achieved through various locomotion methods. -
Motion Control
The precise regulation of a robot’s movements using specialized hardware and software. It ensures smooth and accurate operations. -
Motion Planning
The process of determining a sequence of movements that enables a robot to accomplish a task while avoiding obstacles. This focuses on generating spatial trajectories.
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Navigation
The ability of a robot to determine its position and plan a route through its environment. Navigation systems typically integrate sensor data with mapping and planning algorithms. -
Neural Networks
Computational models inspired by the human brain that are used for pattern recognition and decision-making. They are a key component of machine learning in robotics.
O
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Odometry
A technique for estimating a robot’s position over time using data from motion sensors such as wheel encoders. Odometry is essential for tracking movement during navigation. -
Open-loop Control
A control system that operates without feedback to adjust its actions. While simpler than closed-loop systems, it is less accurate because it cannot correct errors in real time. -
Onboard Computing
The integration of processing hardware and memory within a robot to handle real-time data and decision-making. This enables autonomous operation and rapid response to sensor inputs. -
Optimization
The process of fine-tuning algorithms and system parameters to enhance a robot’s performance, accuracy, and efficiency.
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Perception
A robot’s ability to interpret and make sense of sensory data from its environment. Effective perception systems integrate inputs from various sensors to form a coherent understanding. -
Planning
The process of developing a strategy or series of actions for a robot to achieve its objectives. This can include high-level task sequencing and decision-making. -
Precision
The degree of accuracy with which a robot can perform tasks such as positioning or manipulation. High precision is critical in applications that demand fine control. -
Proprioception
The internal sensing mechanism by which a robot monitors the position and movement of its own components. This capability is important for maintaining balance and coordination.
Q
- Quaternion
A mathematical representation used to describe orientations and rotations in three-dimensional space. Quaternions help avoid issues like gimbal lock during motion planning.
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Real-Time Processing
The capability of a robotic system to process data and respond within strict time constraints. This is critical for dynamic control and safety. -
Reinforcement Learning
A machine learning technique where a robot learns optimal behaviors through trial and error, using feedback from its actions. This method supports adaptive control strategies. -
Redundancy
The inclusion of extra components or degrees of freedom in a robot to enhance reliability and fault tolerance. Redundancy helps ensure continued operation in the event of a failure. -
Remote Control
The operation of a robot from a distance using wired or wireless communication. This approach is often used in hazardous or inaccessible environments. -
Remote Sensing
The process of gathering information about the environment from a distance using sensors. It is particularly useful in aerial or planetary exploration. -
Resilience
The ability of a robot to recover from errors, adapt to unexpected conditions, or continue operating after a component failure. Resilience is vital for robust performance. -
Robotics
The interdisciplinary field that focuses on the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. It integrates principles from mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and artificial intelligence.
S
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Sensor
A device that detects physical stimuli—such as light, sound, temperature, or pressure—and converts them into signals. Sensors provide the critical data that robots use to perceive their surroundings. -
Sensor Fusion
The integration of data from multiple sensors to produce a more accurate and reliable representation of the environment. This process enhances situational awareness and decision-making. -
Servomotor
A rotary actuator that provides precise control of angular position, velocity, and acceleration. Servomotors are widely used in robotic joints for accurate motion control. -
Safety Systems
Integrated mechanisms and protocols designed to prevent accidents and ensure the safe operation of robots. These systems include emergency stops, collision detection, and fault monitoring. -
Soft Robotics
A subfield of robotics focused on creating machines from highly flexible materials that can safely interact with humans and adapt to unstructured environments. -
Software Architecture
The structural design of the software components within a robotic system. A robust architecture ensures scalability, maintainability, and efficient performance. -
Simulation
The use of computer models to replicate the behavior of robots and their environments. Simulation is essential for testing and refining control strategies before real-world deployment.
T
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Teleoperation
The remote control of a robot by a human operator, often used when direct human presence is hazardous or impractical. Teleoperation enables real-time control and monitoring. -
Telerobotics
The integration of telecommunications and robotics to enable the control of machines at a distance. This approach combines remote control with autonomous functions. -
Tactile Sensing
The capability of a robot to detect and interpret touch-based interactions with its environment. Tactile sensing improves manipulation and enhances safety in human–robot interactions. -
Trajectory Planning
The process of calculating a continuous, collision-free path for a robot to follow when moving from one point to another. This planning takes into account spatial and dynamic constraints.
U
- Underactuated Robot
A robot that has fewer actuators than degrees of freedom, making its control more challenging. Specialized algorithms are required to manage its complex dynamics.
V
- Vision System
An integrated set of cameras, sensors, and processing algorithms that enables a robot to interpret visual information. Vision systems are key to tasks such as object recognition, navigation, and inspection.
W
- Waypoint Navigation
A method of guiding a robot through a series of predetermined points. This approach simplifies navigation in structured environments.
II. Robotics Acronyms & Abbreviations
A
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AC – Alternating Current
An electric current that periodically reverses direction, commonly used to power motors and components in robotic systems. -
AGV – Automated Guided Vehicle
A mobile robot that follows predefined paths for tasks such as material handling in industrial settings. -
AI – Artificial Intelligence
The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, enabling autonomous decision-making and learning in robotics. -
API – Application Programming Interface
A set of protocols and routines that allow different software components to communicate, facilitating system integration. -
ARM – Advanced RISC Machine
A family of reduced instruction set computing architectures used in embedded systems powering many robotic applications. -
ASIMO – Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility
A humanoid robot developed by Honda that exemplifies advances in locomotion and balance.
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CAD – Computer-Aided Design
Software used for creating precise engineering drawings and 3D models, essential in designing and prototyping robotic components. -
CAM – Computer-Aided Manufacturing
Techniques and software that automate the production of robotic parts, ensuring efficiency and consistency. -
CS – Control System
A system that monitors and adjusts a robot’s operations through sensor feedback, ensuring accurate and stable performance. -
CNC – Computer Numerical Control
The automated control of machining tools via computer commands, widely used for manufacturing precise robotic parts.
D
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DC – Direct Current
An electric current that flows in one constant direction, often used in motors and battery-powered robotic systems. -
DFM – Design for Manufacturing
An approach that tailors a design to simplify production and reduce costs, critical in the fabrication of robotic components. -
DSP – Digital Signal Processing
The manipulation of signals using digital methods to extract useful information, vital for processing sensor data. -
DNN – Deep Neural Network
A neural network with multiple layers that excels at complex pattern recognition, used in vision and decision-making applications. -
DAQ – Data Acquisition
The process of collecting and digitizing sensor signals for analysis, essential for real-time perception and control.
E
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ECU – Electronic Control Unit
An embedded system that manages one or more electronic systems within a robot. -
E-stop – Emergency Stop
A safety mechanism designed to immediately halt all robot operations to prevent accidents. -
EKF – Extended Kalman Filter
An algorithm used to estimate the state of a nonlinear system from noisy measurements, critical for navigation and sensor fusion.
F
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FPU – Floating Point Unit
A processor component specialized in arithmetic operations on floating-point numbers, critical for complex robotic calculations. -
FPGA – Field-Programmable Gate Array
An integrated circuit that can be configured by the user after manufacturing, offering flexible, real-time processing capabilities. -
FRC – FIRST Robotics Competition
An international contest that challenges students to design and build robots, inspiring innovation and practical learning.
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GPS – Global Positioning System
A satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information, aiding in outdoor robotic navigation. -
GUI – Graphical User Interface
A visual interface that enables users to interact with robotic systems through icons and graphical elements.
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HDMI – High-Definition Multimedia Interface
A standardized connection for transmitting high-definition video and audio, used in robotic vision and monitoring systems. -
HMI – Human-Machine Interface
The medium through which humans interact with machines, ensuring safe and intuitive control of robotic systems.
I
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IMU – Inertial Measurement Unit
A sensor module that measures a robot’s acceleration, orientation, and angular velocity, essential for stabilizing motion. -
IoT – Internet of Things
A network of interconnected devices that communicate and share data, enhancing remote monitoring and coordination in robotics. -
IR – Infrared
Electromagnetic radiation used in sensors for proximity detection and short-range communication in robotic applications.
L
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LED – Light Emitting Diode
A semiconductor light source used for indicators, displays, or sensor arrays in robotic systems. -
LIDAR – Light Detection and Ranging
A sensing technology that uses laser pulses to measure distances and generate 3D maps, critical for autonomous navigation.
M
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MCU – Microcontroller Unit
A compact integrated circuit that includes a processor, memory, and peripherals to control specific functions within a robot. -
MIMO – Multiple Input Multiple Output
A communication method using multiple antennas to improve connectivity and data throughput in robotic networks. -
MPC – Model Predictive Control
An advanced control strategy that uses a mathematical model to predict future behavior and optimize control actions. -
MRPT – Mobile Robot Programming Toolkit
A collection of libraries and tools designed for developing mapping, navigation, and perception algorithms for mobile robots. -
MAV – Micro Aerial Vehicle
A small unmanned aerial robot used for surveillance, inspection, or research in confined spaces. -
ML – Machine Learning
A subset of AI that enables systems to learn from data and improve their performance over time, essential for adaptive robotic control. -
MOSFET – Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor
A transistor used for switching and amplifying electronic signals, key in managing power within robotic circuits. -
M2M – Machine-to-Machine
Direct communication between devices without human intervention, facilitating automated data exchange in robotics.
N
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NLP – Natural Language Processing
A branch of AI that enables machines to understand and process human language, used in voice-controlled robotic systems. -
NSF – National Science Foundation
A U.S. agency that funds research and development, including advancements in robotics and related technologies.
O
- OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer
A company that produces components or complete robotic systems which may be rebranded or integrated by other companies.
P
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PID – Proportional-Integral-Derivative
A control algorithm that continuously calculates error values and applies corrective actions, widely used in motor control. -
PLC – Programmable Logic Controller
An industrial digital computer used to automate electromechanical processes in robotics, especially in manufacturing environments. -
POMDP – Partially Observable Markov Decision Process
A mathematical framework for decision-making in environments with incomplete information, applicable to uncertain robotic scenarios. -
PWM – Pulse Width Modulation
A technique for controlling power delivered to devices by varying the pulse width in a pulse train, used to regulate motor speeds and LED brightness. -
PCB – Printed Circuit Board
A board that mechanically supports and electrically connects electronic components, forming the backbone of a robot’s circuitry.
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R&D – Research and Development
The systematic process of innovation and improvement, critical for advancing robotics technology. -
ROS – Robot Operating System
A flexible framework of tools and libraries for building, managing, and simulating robot software, fostering community-driven development. -
RTOS – Real-Time Operating System
An operating system designed to process data and respond to events within strict time constraints, ensuring reliable robotic performance. -
RANSAC – Random Sample Consensus
An iterative algorithm for robust parameter estimation in the presence of outliers, used in vision and mapping applications. -
RBF – Radial Basis Function
A function used in neural networks for pattern recognition and interpolation, aiding in data classification. -
RISC – Reduced Instruction Set Computer
A microprocessor architecture that uses a simplified set of instructions for increased efficiency, valued for its speed and low power consumption in robotics. -
RTC – Real-Time Clock
A clock that maintains accurate time even when the system is powered off, used for scheduling tasks and synchronizing operations.
S
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SaaS – Software as a Service
A software distribution model where applications are hosted remotely and accessed via the internet, enabling scalable robotic system management. -
SCADA – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
A control system architecture that uses computers and networked data communications to monitor and control industrial processes, including robotics. -
SLAM – Simultaneous Localization and Mapping
A process by which a robot builds a map of an unknown environment while tracking its own location, critical for autonomous navigation. -
SMT – Surface-Mount Technology
A method for mounting electronic components directly onto the surface of circuit boards, commonly used in robotics electronics. -
SOC – System on Chip
An integrated circuit that consolidates multiple components of a computer onto a single chip, enabling compact robotic designs. -
SOM – System on Module
A compact board that includes essential computing components, which can be integrated into robotic systems for rapid development. -
SRS – Software Requirements Specification
A document outlining the functional and non-functional requirements of robotic software, serving as a blueprint for development and testing. -
SQL – Structured Query Language
A programming language designed for managing and querying relational databases, used to organize and analyze data collected by robots. -
SONAR – Sound Navigation and Ranging
A technique that uses sound propagation to detect objects and measure distances, often used in underwater robotics. -
SPI – Serial Peripheral Interface
A synchronous serial communication protocol for short-distance data exchange between devices in robotic systems.
U
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UAV – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
An aircraft that operates without a human pilot onboard, used in robotics for aerial surveillance, mapping, and research. -
USB – Universal Serial Bus
A standard interface for connecting peripherals to computers or robotic systems, facilitating data transfer and power supply. -
UTM – Unmanned Traffic Management
Systems designed to manage and coordinate the operation of unmanned vehicles in shared airspace, enhancing safety and efficiency. -
UGV – Unmanned Ground Vehicle
A ground-based robot designed for tasks such as exploration, surveillance, or hazardous material handling.
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V2X – Vehicle-to-Everything
Communication technology that enables vehicles—including autonomous robots—to exchange information with other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians. -
VLSI – Very Large Scale Integration
The process of integrating thousands or millions of transistors onto a single chip, critical for designing compact, high-performance robotic electronics. -
XML – eXtensible Markup Language
A flexible markup language used to structure, store, and transport data, often utilized in robotics for configuration files and data exchange. -
VR – Virtual Reality
A simulated digital environment used in robotics for simulation, operator training, and the development of intuitive control interfaces.