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When we think about robots, we often think of metal machines from a science fiction film or book.

These imaginary robots often look and behave like humans and can think for themselves.

But real robots are very different.

A robot is a machine or device that can do a task automatically.

That means it can carry out the actions needed to complete a task without help from a person. It knows what to do because it is controlled using a computerprogram.

Most robots have a computer processor or small computer built into their machinery. This computer processor controls all the other parts of the robot.

Robots are built with inputs and outputsto help them work.

Inputs are the parts of the robot that can collect information and send it in to the computer processor.

Some inputs include:

• sensors to collect information from the outside world
• buttons to make the robot stop and start
• a remote control to control the robot from a distance

Outputs are the parts that receive information from the computer processor and help the robot to carry out its task.

Some outputs include:

• motors to make the robot move
• lights to let us know if the power is on or off
• sounds that tell us when the robot has finished its task

We give robots instructions on how to carry out tasks using a computer program. The computer program is sent to the computer processor built into the robot. The computer processor uses the program to give instructions to the different parts of the robot to make it complete the task.

When people write programs for robots, they use sequencing and repetition to make their programs efficient.

Do you remember learning about these before?

• Sequencing - putting instructions in the right order
• Repetition - repeating one small task many times

The program for this packing robot might look like this.

Can you see where the program uses sequencing and repetition?

Robotic machines are accurate and fast and can repeat the same actions thousands of times without stopping. This makes them useful for repetitive jobs that people may find boring.

Robots can also be stronger than people, so can carry out tasks that involve lifting and moving heavy things.

They don't need food, water or even air to breathe. So they can work in places that people can't go.

Engineers usually design and make robots to carry out one or two tasks really well.

Look at these examples of real robots. Do you think they are better than humans?

What jobs do you think robots will do in the future?

Did you know that we probably have some simple robots in our homes?

Devices such as microwave ovens, washing machines, central heating controllers, smoke alarms, lifts and automatic doors are able to work automatically and are controlled by a computer program. This makes them a type of robot!

We don't usually call them robots, but they work in the same way as the more complicated robot devices we've already looked at.