Automation and Robotics Engineering

Automation and robotic technology have made our lives easier in more ways than we realize, be it from manufacturing machines to bringing them into life. They not only build, but also maintain, repair, and design new versions of the machinery we use.

A career in Automation and Robotics engineering is a big deal because the person would be in-charge of numerous technological things that help to make the world a better place. Reading this post will provide you with additional information about this rewarding career. Let’s explore.

What is Automation and Robotics Engineering?

Automation and robotics engineering is a branch of engineering concerned with the design and manufacture of robots. Robotic activities and processes are manipulated by use of computer technologies. These robots may be then utilized in the following applications:

• In industries to speed up manufacturing processes.
• In the field of nuclear science.
• Electrical signal servicing and transmission.
• Designing bio-medical equipment and marine exploration, among many other things.

Automation and Robotics engineers make use of their understanding of different subjects, such as electronics, bio-engineering, computer engineering, control engineering, software engineering. But, this is not all.

Control systems and information technology are also used to minimize the needs of human labour in industries, offices, and at home. Automation and robotics engineering have truly been crucial to the progress of mankind and technology, and this undoubtedly comes with serious responsibilities.

Responsibilities of an Automation and Robotics Engineer

A robot is made up of four parts: electrical, mechanical, hardware, and software. These parts, originally, may appear to be separate. However, a Robotics Engineer will be required to use all engineering fields on a regular basis. Still, the software aspect serves as the adhesive that holds everything together.

Here are some fundamental tasks:

• Designing: An Automation and Robotics Engineer, designs blueprints and plans that would be used to build robots and machines. They develop critical systems that allow robots to function properly. For example, a person may be in charge of developing software system controls utilised in manufacturing of robots. Likewise, he can be responsible for developing robotic systems that are utilised in various industries to enhance productivity and quality levels.
• Building: Assembling the machinery is a second common task. This task is performed by a robotics engineer in those cases where there is no separate assembly unit available. This is where a person can witness his designs and constructions come to life.
• Testing: A machine enters the testing stage after it has been assembled. And in many instances, a robotics engineer may be in charge of the entire procedure. He would test them to ensure that they are safe and capable of doing the tasks for which they were designed.

Few other tasks that should be performed on a regular basis include:

• Analyzing and assessing the prototypes and robotic systems developed — this is a never-ending task because technology is always evolving and developing.
• Cost estimates and design calculations must be reviewed and approved.
• Providing assistance to technical support for the robotic systems developed.
• Teaching planned pathways to robots which they have to follow.
• Conducting research on the design, operation, and performance of robotic mechanism components or systems.

Skills of an Automation and Robotics Engineer

Curiosity to learn and having an interest in design, engineering, and maths would be important because these are the qualities required to become an Automation and Robotics Engineer. Furthermore, every Automation and Robotics Engineer must possess three essential skills. These are:

1. Programming Mindset

There are over 1500 Programming Languages in the world. You do not, however, have to learn all of them. A competent Automation and Robotics Engineer will possess ‘The Programming Mindset.’ When the need arises, you should feel comfortable learning a new language.

Each language you learn improves your programming mindset and makes it easier to learn any new language when you really need it. As a newbie roboticist, you will still need to understand programming languages that will help you progress in your field.

Here are some basics: C/C++, Python, Java, C#/.NET, MATLAB, Assembly, Hardware Description Languages (HDLs), LISP, Industrial Robot Languages, BASIC / Pascal.

The most essential thing is to pick a language that feels natural to you and is compatible with the robotic hardware with which you will be working.

2. Lifelong Learning

Automation and Robotics Engineering covers a wide range of disciplines. It is nearly difficult to learn them all before starting to work on a project. Even with a 5-year undergraduate degree in robotics or other similar fields of study many people would just have begun to explore in certain areas.

Being comfortable with Lifelong Learning is a quality that will serve you well throughout your life. As a result, reading must become a habit. You will also need to adopt strategies that enable you to learn new things quickly and effectively when the need arises.

3. Systems Thinking

Robots are very complex systems. You must be skilled in mechanics, electronics, programming, and even cognition and psychology to work as an Automation and Robotics Engineer.

Systems thinking is a broad approach to analysis. It emphasises on how the elements of a system interact with one another, how they operate over time, and how they perform within the context of larger systems.

A good Automation and Robotics Engineer understands how all of the different systems interact with one another and is familiar with the theory underlying all of them. Where a mechanical engineer may feel that an electrical problem is not their responsibility, a robotic engineer must be skilled in all aspects.

Automation and Robotics Engineering is a unique field with few analogues since it requires knowledge of all other engineering disciplines. Knowledge in this field will prepare you for a variety of professions. The positions include: Mechanical engineers, process engineers, software engineers, and CAD designers.

An Automation and Robotics Engineer would be able to impact many aspects of work and homes. This is because the field has potential to effectively transform lifestyle and workplace environment, increase efficiency and safety levels, and provide enhanced levels of service.