With advances in semiconductor technology and the growing need for smarter, safer and more efficient systems, industrial robotics has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. At the heart of this transformation is the use of advanced embedded processors, which use a system-on-chip (SoC) architecture that integrates various components, including peripherals and hardware accelerators. These processors play a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of industrial robots, enabling them to perform tasks accurately, quickly and reliably. In this article, we will delve into the role that highly integrated embedded processors play in driving the development of industrial robots.

Introduction to industrial robots and embedded processors

Industrial robots refer to automated machines used to perform various tasks in industrial environments, such as articulated robotic arms (Figure 1). These robots perform a wide range of tasks, from simple assembly operations to complex manufacturing processes such as welding, painting and material handling.

PPD115A102 Figure 1: Automated articulated robot arm with UPC scanner

The embedded processor is used to control the movement of the robot arm and actuator, process data from various sensors and make real-time decisions based on environmental feedback. They enable robots to perform tasks more accurately, efficiently and autonomously, increasing productivity and reducing the need for human intervention in industrial processes.

The importance of highly integrated embedded processors in industrial robots

Highly integrated embedded processors such as Texas Instruments’ AM68A, AM69A, TDA4VM, and TDA4VH-Q1 typically combine various components into a single chip. These components include a central processing unit (CPU), on-chip memory, input/output (I/O) interfaces, dedicated hardware accelerators, and vision processors. These devices are designed to handle a variety of tasks, including motion control, sensor data processing, communication, and real-time decision making.

Higher integration increases the energy efficiency of embedded processors and reduces heat loss compared to discrete solutions, which is also a key factor in industrial applications. The lower power consumption of the robotic computing module means that power can be allocated to other operationally critical systems, or the overall power consumption can be reduced completely, thus improving the energy efficiency of the robot. In addition, embedded processors with advanced power management capabilities help extend the battery life of battery-powered robots.

Finally, integration helps simplify the overall system design, making it easier to install into the robot with other systems. This can shorten the data transfer time between components, which improves performance, PPD115A102 because the closer the components within the robot are, the less wiring is required, which reduces system cost and weight.

How does TI’s embedded processor shape the future of robotics?

Texas Instruments is an advanced chip supplier that provides highly integrated embedded processors for industrial robotics applications. Our product range offers a complete range of embedded processors designed to meet the demanding requirements of industrial automation. Our processors are designed to meet the performance, power and security needs of our customers’ systems in a variety of industrial environments.

When combined with open source software, available in the TI Developer zone, and an extensive ecosystem of hardware and software third-party partners, these devices help streamline the design process, driving innovation and accelerating robotics adoption in industrial Settings.

What is the future trend?

As robots become increasingly intelligent and autonomous, and able to collaborate more reliably with human operators, the use of highly integrated embedded processors in industrial robots is expected to continue to grow. Future developments in this area are likely to focus on further improving the performance, power, and safety of embedded processors, as well as integrating new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into more robot control systems.

With continued innovation and progress, highly integrated embedded processors will play a vital role in shaping the future of industrial robotics.