Why Coding is the Heartbeat of Every Robot: How Programming Drives Robotics

From witnessing AI chatbots to being served by robot waiters, these examples are obvious to spark the curiosity among children about how robots work. As a parent, the best you can do is to encourage them to learn further. We suggest this not only to fuel their capabilities, but also owing to the extreme importance of coding in the coming era.

Coding is also fundamental for understanding the functionality of a robot and associated devices. Insights into the same can be gained at any level, be it a kid or a teenager. 

Wondering how you can introduce your child to robotics coding, or are you a kid struggling to understand the concept? We have got your back with this article, where we cover different aspects and details in a simple manner. Read on to enlighten yourself. 

What is Robotics Coding? 

Robotics coding is an exciting field of Computer Science that introduces students to STEM-based learning. It familiarises them with the following aspects: 

• Technology: Programming logic
• Engineering: Control systems
• Math: Algorithms & logic gates

Coding for robots also develops problem-solving skills, fosters creativity and innovation, prepares students for future careers and the job market, and much more. 

Now, let’s familiarise you with basic definitions before heading on to the technical part. 

Robot: It is an autonomous machine that automates tasks as per the instructions and input it receives. It depends on programming to control robot actions, from moving an arm to detecting colours. 

Coding: It is the command language that bridges the gap between humans and machines. It helps the robot to understand commands and respond accurately. 

Robotics: It refers to the process of designing and building robots. Robotics deals with the integration of necessary components like sensors and motors that offer functionality to the robot.

Hence, robotics programming uses coding technology to control and make the machines functional and useful for humans. 

Fun Fact: Sophia is the humanoid robot that was granted citizenship in Saudi Arabia in 2017. She was designed and modelled after actress Audrey Hepburn.

Applications of Robot Coding

The robot coding is transforming different sectors, such as:  

Application	Use	Example
Agriculture	AI-powered robots assist in farming tasks like crop harvesting, weed removal and precise chemical application. They also reduce labour and optimize crop health.	Ecorobotix: Identifies and sprays chemicals on weeds with high accuracy
Space exploration	Robots perform tasks that are unsafe or infeasible for humans. It includes sample collection and analysis, terrain exploration and monitoring environments.	Mars Rover (Curiosity): It collects samples and analyzes them on Mars
Security	Autonomous robots support human security by monitoring premises, detecting threats and assisting in security operations	Knightscope: AI-driven security robot assisting human guards in the United States

Simplified Working Mechanism of a Robot 

Robot behavior is dependent on how code interacts with sensors, algorithms, and actuators. When a programmer writes code, they define how the robot should sense its environment, process data, and respond following a Sense-Think-Act pattern. It is also referred to as the Sense-Plan-Act (SPA) loop. The sequence is as follows:

Sensing the Environment 

Robots first use sensors, like cameras, ultrasonic detectors, or motion sensors, to collect data from their surroundings. The code tells the robot which sensors to use and how to interpret the incoming data. 

Processing and Decision-Making

The collected data is then processed using algorithms written in the code. These can be simple rule-based instructions, such as turn if an obstacle is detected. The complexity can go high with AI models that learn and make predictions. This step allows the robot to decide what action to take next. 

Action Through Actuators 

Once a decision is made, the code sends signals to actuators, which include motors or pneumatic systems that physically move the robot. The code would translate to lifting an arm, turning a wheel, or changing direction. Feedback systems then check if the action was accurate and make adjustments if needed.

Learning Robot Coding for Kids/Students 

Gaining familiarity with robotics programming is easy. The key is to ensure a proper approach that develops fundamental clarity among the students. Hence, the introduction to coding for robots will depend on the age and level of the child. Here is what to gain familiarity with: 

• Scratch: It is a free programming language and online community available to generate coding games, interactive stories, and animations. It is well-suited for younger students to learn robot automation coding and its practical applications. 
• Python: It is a widely used and highly versatile programming language that is easy to work with. Older students can step into robotics development by learning the basics of this language. 
• Kits: There are numerous user-friendly robot kits available for children of different age groups. They make students learn robot programming through building and coding. 
• Hardware and Software: The hardware components can also be chosen to build the robots. The example includes a robot brain. The microcontroller hardware combined with open-source software is another option to choose for older or experienced students. 

Fun Time with Robot Coding 

Are you interested in getting hands-on experience and developing your own robot? Yes, it is perfectly possible. Here are the suggested activities that you can try right from your home: 

• Build a simple robot: Construct a simple wheeled robot and write code to follow a line and avoid obstacles. 
• Teach basic programs: It will include teaching the robot to move forward, turn, stop, or respond to sensors. 
• Code debugging sessions: Give students broken code and let them fix it to see the robot work correctly.

Conclusion 

Robotics coding is a fun and hands-on way for kids to learn programming, problem-solving, and STEM skills. We encourage the curious students and out-of-the-box thinkers to flourish their creativity by trying a coding course or robotics program, like: 

• RoboNinjas by Turito
• DigiNext-Coding 
• Summer Camp from Turito

Unsure about the level of your child or which programming languages for robots are the right fit? Worry not. We have demo classes available to help you explore the best course. Also, the courses are further divided into different levels to match the students’ knowledge. If still doubtful about the right choice, connect with our customer care executive for any type of assistance or query resolution. 

Frequently Asked questions