SYSTEMS A System is a group of components working together.

We can represent it symbolically by a 3-stage flowchart or in words: Input-processing-output Some systems have more than one input or more than one output. Robots are distinguished by having several inputs, a very complicated processing stage (usually a microcontroller) which is programmable and interfaced to several outputs. INPUT STAGES: If a robot is to function properly, it needs to know what is happening in the world around it. It needs sensors. These are of 5 main types: Light sensors: Usually consist of a photodiode or phototransistor. Its input is often on a scale from 0 (dark) to 255 (maximum light). Touch sensors: this is usually a microswitch, closing the switch and sending a message (a rise or fall of voltage) to the processing stage. Sound sensors: Sensitive microphones are used. Magnetic sensors: These detect the direction of the magnetic field. They are sensitive to the Earths field and so are used to give a robot a sense of direction. Wireless link: The robot communicates with the computer using a Bluetooth radio link. Programs are written on the computer and uploaded into the Robots memory by a Bluetooth transmitter in the computer and a Bluetooth receiver in the robot. PROCESSING STAGE: Processing is usually performed by microcontroller, assisted by a block a of

memory, and operating according instructions in the form of a program. OUTPUT STAGE:

to

These are the stages which do something. We some- times call them actuators. A robot is useless without a set of actuators. This may include: Motors: These are for propulsion and providing motive power for mechanisms for a system. Loudspeaker: Logic circuits connected to the loud- speaker can be programmed to produce a variety of sounds such as musical tones, sound effects, and speech. Light display: flashing an LED can convey a meaning such as Ready to start. Some displays word messages, and other symbol. A special sensor is used for measuring a system or a physical quantity of an instrument. A mechanical sensor is a device that measures a physical quantity and mechanical property and converts it into a 'signal' which can be read by an observer or by an instrument. Examples of Mechanical Sensor: 1. Vibration and Shock Sensor A device that measures the acceleration, shock or vibration of an object or structure whenever it moves from one displacement to another. Example is the Seismograph which is used in observing earthquakes and Aftershocks. 2. Pressure Sensors - measures pressure, typically of gases or liquids. An example of this sensor is a Mercury Barometer. A mercury barometer is a device that uses the various physical properties of mercury contained in a tube to measure barometric pressure, also known as air pressure or atmospheric pressure.