Automated and emerging technologies (Paper 1) Flashcards
(35 cards)
What three components make up an automated system?
-Sensors
-Microprocessors
-Actuators
How does an automated system work?
-A sensor takes any measurements of the environment
-Microprocessors then process the information and make decisions based on the readings
-The actuators then make a physical change to the environmental
How are automated systems used in industry?
-Canned food relies on bringing contents of food to a certain temperature under pressure before they are cooled making the food safer to eat
How are automated systems used in agriculture?
-Humidity, pH and moisture sensors ensure crops are grown and stored in optimum conditions
-Microprocessors will process the readings from the sensors to turn on sprinkler systems or open vents
How are automated systems used in transport?
-Self driving cars
-Proximity sensors are used which can automatically apply the brakes if a car gets too close
-Planes also use sensors and actuators to adjust wing flaps, throttles and rudder
What are the advantages to automated systems?
-There is a greater accuracy of measurements which can be achieved
-They don’t require any salaries (Cheaper in the long run)
-Don’t require any breaks (Very efficient)
What are the disadvantages to automated systems?
-Initial costs are very high
-Makes unemployment an issue
-Equipment may require maintenance or replacement costs
What are the characteristics of a robot?
-They have a mechanical structure/framework
-They contain electrical components
-Programmable
-Contain sensors, microprocessors, actuators
What are the advantages to robots?
-Work faster
-Don’t require any breaks and can work 24/7
-Able to work in dangerous environments
-Reduces cost as no need to pay any humans to do the task
-More accurate and efficient
What are the disadvantages to robots?
-Initial cost of purchasing is high and so is the cost of maintenance and repairing
-Jobs are lost as a result of robots
-Robots may be unreliable
-Robot may not be as good at the job as a human would
-Loss of contact with real people
Define a microprocessor
An integrated circuit that can perform many functions of a CPU
Define an acutator
A mechanical part that causes another physical device or part to move
What is the initial cost of a car manufacturing industry?
-Very high as the robots need purchasing and the software development is expensive
What are the running costs of a car manufacturing industry?
-Could be high as systems need maintenance
-However it also could be low as they can do jobs more efficiently than humans and there are less employees - saving money
What is safety like in a car manufacturing industry?
-Very high as the robots can manage the environment and check for danger whereas humans can get distracted
What is precision like in car manufacturing industries?
-Very high as human errors will not be made
What is the initial cost of having robotics in science?
-Very high as the purchase of devices and development of systems are high
What is the running cost of having robotics in science?
May be lower as less people are needed but maintenance costs will be high
What is safety like when having robotics in science?
-Less risk of human error increasing safety
-Also less people are needed to work in the dangerous industries
What is precision like when having robotics in science?
-Very few errors as it is a high risk scenario
What is the initial cost of having robots in agriculture?
Very high for installation and programming
What is the running cost for having robots in agriculture?
-Small cost for electricity and maintenance
What is the safety like when having robots in agriculture?
Not relevant due to it not being a dangerous process
What is the precision like when having robots in agriculture?
May not be as important but will allow for accurate reading therefore instant changes can be made
