Chapter Notes: Computers and Robots

Table of Contents
1. Computers control many devices
2. File types
3. Computers control devices
4. The Internet of Things
5. The role of robots
6. What can you do?
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Computers control many devices

• Many common household items contain embedded computers that enable advanced functionality.
• In this unit, students will explore:
  • Different types of files stored on computers.
  • How computers control various machines and devices.
  • The concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its applications.
  • The roles of robots in manufacturing processes.

File types

• Files on a computer are stored on the hard drive, similar to how paper documents are stored in named folders.
• Computer files are organized in folders with distinct names, located in various places on the hard drive.
• Each file has a unique name to facilitate easy retrieval.
• Common file types:
  • Text:
    • Files containing letters, numbers, or both, such as letters or spreadsheets.
    • Example: A letter typed by a user on a computer.
  • Audio:
    • Files storing music, sounds, or voice recordings.
    • Example: Favorite songs or a voice note from a teacher stored on a computer.
  • Image:
    • Files containing pictures, photographs, or drawings.
    • Example: Family or friend photographs stored on a computer.
  • Video:
    • Files storing movies or video recordings.
    • Example: Vacation videos stored on a computer's hard drive.
  • Games:
    • Applications or programs designed for interactive play.
    • Example: Educational games stored on a computer for learning purposes.
• Did you know?
  • The most popular audio file type is MP3.
  • The most popular video file type is MP4.

Computers control devices

• Computers can control a wide range of machines in various settings, including homes, schools, streets, and factories.
• Computer-controlled device:A machine that takes input data, processes it, and produces an output to perform a specific task.
  • The output controls the machine's actions, such as opening a door or turning on a light.
  • The computer program determines the output, and different programs can produce different outputs from the same inputs.
• Examples of computer-controlled devices:
  • Factory machines:
    • Programmed to manufacture products, with the ability to switch tasks by changing the program.
    • Example: A machine producing different parts based on programmed instructions.
  • Car park gates and barriers:
    • Controlled by computers to manage vehicle access.
  • Vending machines:
    • Programmed to dispense items, with adjustable pricing or item selection through software changes.
  • Children's toys:
    • Programmed to perform different actions based on button presses.
    • Example: A toy that moves or makes sounds when interacted with.
  • Garden sprinkler systems:
    • Controlled by computers to manage watering schedules in homes.
• Keyword:
  • Computer-controlled device: A machine that uses input data to execute a specific task, controlled by a computer program.

The Internet of Things

• The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of everyday devices connected to the internet, beyond traditional computers like tablets, laptops, and smartphones.
• Smart devices:Everyday objects with embedded computers that can send and receive data via the internet.
  • Found in homes, schools, and industries.
  • Controlled by smartphones, tablets, or computers connected to the internet.
• Examples of smart devices:
  • Refrigerators: Can reorder food when supplies run low.
  • Washing machines and drying machines: Can be programmed or monitored remotely.
  • Lightbulbs: Can be turned on/off or dimmed via internet-connected devices.
  • Mirrors: Can display information like time or weather.
  • Faucets: Can be controlled for water flow or temperature.
  • Printers: Can reorder ink when cartridges are empty.
  • Bathroom scales: Can record and send weight data to a doctor.
  • Smartwatches: Can monitor heart rate and send data to healthcare providers.
  • Cars: Can be locked/unlocked via smartphone apps or alert authorities in case of accidents.
  • Farm tags: Used to track animal locations, viewable by farmers on smartphones.
• Smart home security systems:
  • Can alert police in case of a break-in.
• Keyword:
  • Internet of Things: A network of smart devices connected to the internet, enabling data exchange and remote control.

The role of robots

• Robots are computer-controlled devices programmed to perform specific tasks, often in manufacturing settings.
• Three main roles of robots in factories:
  • Handle materials:
    • Move materials from one location to another.
    • Example: Unloading and loading boxes in a factory.
  • Build things:
    • Perform tasks to assemble products.
    • Example: In a car factory, robots use screwdrivers to connect parts or welding torches to join components.
  • Inspect:
    • Examine finished products to ensure safety and quality standards.
    • Example: Checking if a product meets required specifications before distribution.

What can you do?

• Identify different types of files (text, audio, image, video, games) that can be stored on a computer's hard drive.
• Understand how computers control other machines, such as vending machines, toys, and factory equipment.
• Name common Internet of Things devices, such as smart refrigerators, lightbulbs, and security systems.
• Describe the roles of robots in manufacturing, including handling materials, building products, and inspecting quality.