Classifications of Robots

There are several ways to classify Robots, reason for which it is not an easy task to do that. There are classifications more popular than others but sometimes we are interested in specific classifications and it is not always easy to find the one we are looking for.

In this article several classifications of Robots will be listed and eventually linked to a page in which it will be discussed that type of classification in detail.

List of Classifications of Robots

List of Classifications of Robots

Classification based on Robot’s Application:

This classification refers to the intended use or field of application of the robot. This includes but is not limited to industrial robots (used in manufacturing or assembly), medical robots (used in surgeries or patient care), domestic or household robots (used for chores, entertainment, or assistance), military robots (used for surveillance, reconnaissance, or combat), agricultural robots (used for farming tasks), space robots (used for exploration or scientific research), and many more. Each of these categories serves a unique purpose and is designed with specific capabilities to suit its intended application. Click here for further information.

Classification based on Robot’s Kinematics

This refers to the mathematical description of motion, without regard to the forces that cause that motion. In robotics, kinematic models describe the geometry of a robot or robotic system, specifically how the different parts are connected and how they move relative to one another. Robots can be classified according to their kinematic configuration such as serial (where components are arranged in a series), parallel (components are arranged in parallel), or hybrid (a combination of both). A well-known example of this classification is the distinction between Cartesian, Cylindrical, Spherical, SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm), and Articulated robots in industrial robotics. Each of these types has a unique kinematic structure that determines the robot’s motion and task capabilities.

Classification based on Robot’s Control System

Autonomous robots that operate without human intervention, semi-autonomous robots that can do certain tasks independently but require human intervention for others, and teleoperated robots that are completely controlled by humans.

Classification based on Robot’s Learning Capabilities

Some robots are pre-programmed and cannot learn new tasks or adapt to their environments. Others, typically those equipped with artificial intelligence, can learn and adapt.

Classification based on Robot’s Locomotion

Robots can be classified by their movement capabilities, such as walking, rolling, flying, swimming, climbing, etc. so we have wheeled robots, legged robots, etc. Click here for further information.

Classification based on Robot’s Environment

This could include classifying robots by where they operate such as land-based, aerial, underwater, space robots, etc.

Classification based on Robot’s Structure

This would include anthropomorphic robots that resemble humans, zoomorphic robots that resemble animals, and polymorphic robots that can change their physical shape.

Classification based on Robot’s Power Source

Robots can be classified by whether they’re powered by electricity, batteries, solar power, or other sources.

Classification based on Robot’s Size

From nanorobots, microbots to large industrial robots.

Classification based on Robot’s Interaction with Humans

Robots can be classified by the level and type of interaction they have with humans – this could range from industrial robots that work separately from humans, to collaborative robots that work alongside humans, to social robots that are designed to interact with humans in a more personal way.

Classification based on Robot’s Degrees of Freedom

This refers to the number of independent movements or positions a robot can make – for example, a robotic arm might have several degrees of freedom, allowing it to move in multiple directions and perform a variety of tasks.