Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion from Coursera

Do you want to know how robots work? Are you interested in robotics as a career? Are you willing to invest the effort to learn fundamental mathematical modeling techniques that are used in all subfields of robotics?

If so, then the "Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control" specialization may be for you. This specialization, consisting of six short courses, is serious preparation for serious students who hope to work in the field of robotics or to undertake advanced study. It is not a sampler.

In Course 1 of the specialization, Foundations of Robot Motion, you will learn fundamental material regarding robot configurations, for both serial robot mechanisms and robots with closed chains. You will learn about configuration space (C-space), degrees of freedom, C-space topology, implicit and explicit representations of configurations, and holonomic and nonholonomic constraints. You will also learn how to represent spatial velocities and forces as twists and wrenches. This material is at the core of the study of anything that moves (e.g., robots).

This course follows the textbook "Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control" (Lynch and Park, Cambridge University Press 2017). You can purchase the book or use the free preprint pdf. You will build on a library of robotics software in the language of your choice (among Python, Mathematica, and MATLAB) and use the free cross-platform robot simulator V-REP, which allows you to work with state-of-the-art robots in the comfort of your own home and with zero financial investment.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Modern Robotics

Introduction to the specialization, the Modern Robotics code library, the CoppeliaSim robot simulator, and the lightboard video-generation tool.

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Covers foundational materials used across subfields of robotics such as robot configuration, configuration space, and spatial velocities

Develops mathematical modeling techniques applicable to robotics

Uses free, open-source software and simulators to reduce financial barriers to learning

Instructed by a recognized author of robotics textbooks

Assumes background knowledge of spatial linear algebra

Reviews summary

Rigorous foundations of robot motion

According to learners, Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion provides a rigorous and comprehensive positive introduction to the mathematical underpinnings of robotics. Many found the course content deep and foundational positive, essential for understanding robot kinematics, configuration space, and rigid-body motions. Students frequently highlighted the indispensable accompanying textbook positive and the clear explanations in lectures positive as significant aids. While praised for its academic depth positive, a notable portion of learners found the course highly challenging due to its mathematical intensity warning, recommending a strong background in linear algebra. Some also experienced initial difficulties with simulator setup warning, though recent updates have improved this. Overall, it's considered serious preparation for aspiring robotics professionals positive.

Demanding course requiring dedicated study time.

"The pace is fast, but it pushes you to learn. Be prepared to dedicate significant time outside of lectures."

"I needed to rewatch lectures and work through the textbook extensively to grasp the concepts fully."

"This course is not a sampler; it requires serious effort and a considerable time investment to truly benefit from it."

Deep dive into foundational robotics math.

"The mathematical derivations were rigorous and the explanations in the lectures were clear. I found the accompanying textbook indispensable."

"This course is very challenging but rewarding. The content is dense and requires a solid background in linear algebra and calculus."

"I struggled a lot with the math, even with the recommended prerequisites. I wished there were more intuitive explanations or simpler examples before diving into such complex topics."

Requires engagement with the course textbook.

"The accompanying textbook is indispensable for understanding the material. It truly complements the lectures."

"I found the free preprint PDF of the book incredibly useful for following along and reviewing concepts. It's a must-have companion."

"Be prepared to use the textbook extensively; I would not have understood everything without it to clarify the derivations."

Practical application through V-REP/CoppeliaSim.

"CoppeliaSim integration was smooth and very helpful for visualization of the concepts presented."

"The programming exercises were practical, though the V-REP setup initially gave me trouble; however, updated instructions really helped make it smoother."

"The V-REP setup was a real pain for some, but once working, the simulations were invaluable for reinforcing understanding."

Provides a strong theoretical base for robotics.

"Excellent foundational course! It provides a solid theoretical background that is crucial for understanding how robots work."

"A true gem for understanding robot kinematics. The instructors are exceptional, breaking down complex topics into digestible parts."

"I feel I gained a solid, comprehensive understanding of robot configurations, C-space, twists, and wrenches from this course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion with these activities:

Review the book 'Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control' by Lynch and Park

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Reading this book will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of robotics.

View Modern Robotics on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly.
Take notes on the key concepts.
Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.

Review mechanics of rigid bodies

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Reviewing the mechanics of rigid bodies will help you better understand the motion of robots.

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Review the concepts of position, velocity, and acceleration in 3D space.
Study the laws of motion and their application to rigid bodies.

Follow online tutorials on robot kinematics and dynamics

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Following online tutorials will help you learn about the kinematics and dynamics of robots.

Browse courses on Robot Kinematics

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Find online tutorials on robot kinematics and dynamics.
Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises.
Apply the concepts you learn to solve real-world problems.

Six other activities

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Explore Homogeneous Transformation Matrices

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Further understanding of homogeneous transformation matrices can help you with analytical kinematics.

Browse courses on Transformation Matrices

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Search for and watch a video tutorial on homogeneous transformation matrices
Go through the examples and exercises provided in the tutorial
Try implementing a simple robotics application using homogeneous transformation matrices

Solve practice problems on rigid-body motion

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Solving practice problems will help you apply the concepts of rigid-body motion to real-world problems.

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Find the position, velocity, and acceleration of a rigid body given its initial conditions and external forces.
Analyze the motion of a rigid body using Newton's laws of motion.
Determine the forces and moments acting on a rigid body in equilibrium.

Join a study group or online forum to discuss robotics concepts with other students

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Discussing robotics concepts with other students will help you learn from different perspectives and reinforce your understanding.

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Find a study group or online forum for robotics students.
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Help other students with their questions.

Build a simple robot using a microcontroller and sensors

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Building a simple robot will help you apply the concepts you learn in this course to a real-world project.

Browse courses on Robotics

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Choose a simple robot design.
Gather the necessary materials and components.
Assemble the robot.
Program the robot to perform a specific task.
Test the robot and make any necessary adjustments.

Attend a robotics workshop or conference

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Attending a robotics workshop or conference will expose you to new ideas and technologies in the field.

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Find a robotics workshop or conference that is relevant to your interests.
Register for the event.
Attend the event and participate in the activities.

Create a video tutorial on a topic in rigid-body motion

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Creating a video tutorial will help you deepen your understanding of a topic in rigid-body motion and share your knowledge with others.

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Choose a topic in rigid-body motion that you are interested in.
Research the topic and gather information from reliable sources.
Write a script for your video tutorial.
Record your video tutorial using a screencasting software.
Edit your video tutorial and add any necessary visuals or audio.

Career center

Learners who complete Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineers design, build, and maintain robots, using their knowledge of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and defense. This course may be useful for Robotics Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Robotics Engineers to design and build robots that are more efficient and effective.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Mechatronics Engineer

Mechatronics Engineers design, build, and maintain systems that integrate mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Mechatronics Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Mechatronics Engineers to design and build systems that are more efficient and effective.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineers design and implement control systems for a variety of applications, including robotics, manufacturing, and transportation. They work to ensure that systems are stable, efficient, and responsive. This course may be useful for Control Systems Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Control Systems Engineers to design and implement control systems that are more effective and efficient.

See salaries and explore the career path for Control Systems Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design and build mechanical systems, including robots, machines, and vehicles. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Mechanical Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Mechanical Engineers to design and build robots and machines that are more efficient and effective.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design and build electrical systems, including robots, computers, and power systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Electrical Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Electrical Engineers to design and build robots and electrical systems that are more efficient and effective.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Computer Engineer

Computer Engineers design and build computer systems, including robots, computers, and networks. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Computer Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Computer Engineers to design and build robots and computer systems that are more efficient and effective.

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Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers design and build aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, defense, and transportation. This course may be useful for Aerospace Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Aerospace Engineers to design and build aircraft and spacecraft that are more efficient and effective.

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Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers design and build medical devices and systems, including robots, prosthetics, and implants. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and research. This course may be useful for Biomedical Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Biomedical Engineers to design and build medical devices and systems that are more efficient and effective.

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Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers design and build chemical plants and processes. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and energy. This course may be useful for Chemical Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Chemical Engineers to design and build chemical plants and processes that are more efficient and effective.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, transportation, and planning. This course may be useful for Civil Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Civil Engineers to design and build infrastructure that is more efficient and effective.

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Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers design and improve manufacturing and production systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Industrial Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Industrial Engineers to design and improve manufacturing and production systems that are more efficient and effective.

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Materials Engineer

Materials Engineers design and develop new materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, and defense. This course may be useful for Materials Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Materials Engineers to design and develop new materials that are more efficient and effective.

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Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design and build nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. They work in a variety of industries, including energy, manufacturing, and defense. This course may be useful for Nuclear Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Nuclear Engineers to design and build nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities that are more efficient and effective.

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Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design and build oil and gas wells. They work in a variety of industries, including energy, manufacturing, and transportation. This course may be useful for Petroleum Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Petroleum Engineers to design and build oil and gas wells that are more efficient and effective.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design and build software systems. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. This course may be useful for Software Engineers as it provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of robot motion, including configuration space, degrees of freedom, and constraints. This knowledge can help Software Engineers to design and build software systems that are more efficient and effective.

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