6: Automated Systems

Automated System

Computer system that collects information and can react and perform tasks based on the data.

The Components

It is made using three components: Sensors, Microprocessors, Actuators.

Sensors — Collects information and provides the microprocessor with it as an input.
Microprocessor — Process the infos and makes decisions based on pre-programmed rules.
Actuators — Makes physical changes based on instructions given by the microprocessor.
- Example of Physical Changes:
  - Opening / Closing a Door / Valve
  - Activating an Alarm.

Advantages and Disadvantages

General advantages and disadvantages of automated systems.

Disadvantages:

Cost — High expensive set up cost.
Security Concerns — Open and vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Limited Flexibility — Only reacts to preset programmed scenario.
Maintenance — Has to be checked and updated frequently.
Unethical — Results in major job losses.

Advantages:

Cost — Long-term cost saving.
Consistent — Results are repeatable.
Safer — Timely interventions & Keeps humans away from hazardous environments.
Efficient — Materials and Resources.

Specific advantages and disadvantages of automated system in wider scenarios.

Scenario	Disadvantages	Advantages
Industry	• High investment and startup costs
• Decreased employment opportunity	• Increased production rate
• Improved quality control
Transport	• Transportation drivers lose jobs
• Technology reliability	• Less accidents & traffic congestion
• Increased logistical efficiency
Agriculture	• High start-up costs for equipment and sensors	• Less manual labour
• Increased crop yield & resource management
Weather	• Dependence on accurate sensor data	• Accurate forecasting
• Improved early warning systems
Gaming	• Reduced creativity & problem solving for players
• Repetitive gameplay	• Personalised experience
• AI enhanced opponents add challenge
Lighting	• Lack of human control with light adjustments	• Increased energy efficiency
• Better security with motion-activated systems
Science	• High cost development and maintenance
• Potential for algorithm bias	• Faster & more precise
• Reduced risk of human error

Exam Styled Question 6.1:

A theme park has a game where a player tries to run from the start to the finish without getting wet. The autonomous system for the game uses sensors and a microprocessor to spray water at a player as they run past each sensor.

Describe how the sensors and the microprocessor are used in this system.

Contains information from:

3: Hardware

Robotics

Robots, comes from the Czech word “robota” which means forced labour.