Key Applications of Robotics and Communication Systems
Robotics is a branch of engineering and computer science that involves the conception, design, manufacture and operation of robots. The objective of the robotics field is to create intelligent machines that can assist humans in a variety of ways. Robotic systems might transmit signals and programmed information in many ways, such as Hardwiring, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5G using communication systems.
The invention of robotics has completely revolutionized industries, leading to automation and streamlining processes, boosting productivity and economic growth. Some of the key Engineering engineering applications of robotics in trash sorting, food delivery, solar panel, pipeline, surface water wave detection, solar tracking and relay networks are presented in this book.
The chapters of this book are arranged based on these specific applications. Each application is described in detail including literature review, methodology, design & and implantation, and its performance analysis in the form of results and conclusion. Hence, this book will be very useful to researchers who are doing their research in Robotics and Communication. It will help them to enhance their research by knowing these methodologies and its their performances. This book will be an asset to Engineering students who are interested in doing their final year project in Robotics and Communication.
Cite this book as:
M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J.E. Raja, Key applications of robotics and communication systems. MMU Press.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1
Development of Vision-Based Trash Sorting Robotic System
By Mufawwaz Moayad [0009-0003-8776-2058], Md. Jakir Hossen [0000-0002-9978-7987] and Joseph Emerson Raja [0000-0002-4512-0802]
Abstract – Using YOLOv8, the material identification project is a big step forward in AI and waste control. Its goal is to set up machines that will automatically sort trash into metal, organic, and plastic parts. Custom YOLOv8 models that are very accurate on-site are one of the company’s biggest hits. This chapter lays the groundwork for smart trash sorting systems that will change the way garbage is managed. It talks about the models’ tactics, pros and cons, which can help with future AI study in environmental sustainability. Recommendations for more work look into ways that material recognition methods can be made better and more creative. In conclusion, this project shows how AI can be used to solve problems with trash management and move forward with sustainable efforts.
Cite this chapter as:
Moayad, M., Hossen, M. J. & Raja, J. E. (2025). Development of vision-based trash sorting robotic system. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.), Key applications of robotics and communication systems (pp.7−24). MMU Press.
Chapter 2
Development of Food Delivery Robot
By Nur Hasanah Ali [0000-0003-3483-4583] and Jia Jun Yaw [0009-0002-5209-4603]
Abstract– The utilization of robots as service personnel in restaurants has emerged as a prominent trend within the hospitality industry. With a shortage of human waitstaff, restaurant proprietors are increasingly turning to robotic solutions to enhance customer service. This project encompasses the conception and realization of a food delivery robot, designed to streamline the process of serving patrons. The primary objective of this endeavour is to mitigate human contact, particularly pertinent amidst the ongoing pandemic. Our robotic assistant necessitates manual oversight, with operators controlling its movements from the kitchen to the customers’ tables. Facilitating this control is a central controller linked to a Bluetooth module, enabling seamless communication between the robot and its human operators. Utilizing a smartphone application paired with the robot’s Bluetooth connectivity, restaurant staff can precisely direct its movements. Upon the completion of food preparation, orders are placed onto the robot’s tray, allowing for efficient transport. Additionally, the robot incorporates auxiliary systems such as video streaming and obstacle avoidance, augmenting its efficacy and intelligence. In summary, the implementation of a food delivery robot represents a forward-thinking solution to modernize restaurant operations and adapt to evolving service demands.
Cite this chapter as:
Ali, N. H. & Yaw, J. J. (2025). Development of food delivery robot. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.), Key applications of robotics and communication systems (pp. 25−50). MMU Press.
Chapter 3
Design and Implementation of a Dual-Axis Robotic Arm for Solar Panel
By Thangavel Bhuvaneswari [0000-0001-9022-2958], Venugopal Chitra [0000-0002-4149-0929] and Daniel Chee Chien Sim
Abstract –Solar energy, a rapidly expanding renewable energy source, relies on optimizing efficiency to enhance the power output of solar panels. Conventional fixed-tilted panels lack the ability to adjust to the sun’s shifting position during the day, resulting in low efficiency. While current solar tracking systems offer higher efficiency, their lack of mobility and portability limits their utility. Majority of the solar trackers designed falls under two categories. Sensor based solar tracking and Astronomical equations based solar tracking. In both ways the design of the tracker is essential. In 3D solar panel tracker, the frame represents the design for the dual axis solar tracker. The two degrees of freedom in panels for dual-axis tracking are azimuth (horizontal motion) and elevation (vertical movement). These movements can be aligned and allow the solar panels to accurately track the sun’s position throughout the day. The 3D printed robotic arm based solar tracker is designed and evaluated using astronomical equations for accurate solar location is presented in this paper. The mechanical drawings of parts involved in 3D printing, servomotors, of the Dual Axis Tracker are explained emphasizing reliability, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. Comprehensive simulations and experiments are carried out to evaluate the performance of the designed Dual Axis Tracker.
Cite this chapter as:
Bhuvaneswari, T., Chitra, V. & Sim, D. C. C. (2025). Design and implementation of a dual-axis robotic arm for solar panel. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.), Key applications of robotics and communication systems (pp. 51−78). MMU Press.
Chapter 4
Design of Mobile Robot for Pipeline Inspection
By Min Thu Soe [0000-0003-1681-3420], Mohamad Syazani Bin Zulkhair and Wong Wai Kit [0000-0003-1477-8449]
Abstract –The objective of this project is to develop a prototype of a pipeline inspection robot capable of efficient operation within pipes. The robot is equipped with appropriate sensors to detect if there is any obstacle blocking the movement of the robot. When an obstacle is detected, the robot will stop moving and await further instructions from the controller. The robot can communicate wirelessly with a remote controller to receive commands on whether to move forward, stop, or reverse. The robot developed in this project has a unique design and can change its body shape to adjust to different pipeline diameter. Various efficiency tests show the robot is capable to work efficiently in a straight pipe, even if the pipe is inclined to a certain degree. However, the robot failed to navigate correctly in curvy pipes with 90° angle. The robot operates at a good movement speed. The obstacle detection system installed on the robot was proven to be effective in detecting all the obstacles blocking the robot movement. The robot also has a high communication range with the remote device no matter if the robot is in a pipe or exposed. The remote controller functions via an Android application, compatible with Android mobile devices. Overall, the prototype showcases promising capabilities for pipeline inspection, emphasizing adaptability to different pipe diameters, and reliable wireless communication with a user-friendly Android interface.
Cite this chapter as:
Soe, M. T., Syazani, M.., & Wong, W. K. (2025). Design of mobile robot for pipeline inspection. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.), Key applications of robotics and communication systems (pp. 79-114). MMU Press.
Chapter 5
Development of Surface Water Wave Detector with Wave Characteristic Extraction
By Poh Wei Lui [0009-0002-8883-1310], Boon Chin Yeo [0000-0003-2306-9716], Way Soong Lim [0000-0002-2214-6997], Pee Pocherd [0009-0000-3981-1140] and Yan Feng Lai [0009-0004-8651-9096]
Abstract –Early warning systems and activities detection in water are crucial to ensure water safety. Surface water waves information is the direct signals provided from the activities that happened in the water as different activities create different water surface waves. The differences of waves can be determined by various parameters, which are amplitudes, wavelength, frequency, and direction. By further analysing the surface water waves, features can be determined to identify different activities. The objective of this project is to develop a surface water wave detector system that can extract wave direction based on wave patterns. A cylindrical floating device which implemented capacitive water level sensors has been developed. The data collected from the sensors are then processed to determine the direction of the wave source using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The mean square error and mean absolute error obtained from testing the four cardinal directions with the wave direction detection system are 38.42° and 5.85°, respectively.
Cite this chapter as:
Lui, P. W., Yeo, B. C., Lim, W. S., Pee, P. & Lai, Y. F. (2025). Development of surface water wave detector with wave characteristic extraction. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.), Key applications ofrobotics and communication systems (pp. 115-130). MMU Press.
Chapter 6
Development of a GPS-Based Dual-Axis Robotic Arm for Solar Tracking System Utilising Astronomical Equations
By Thangavel Bhuvaneswari [0000-0001-9022-2958], Venugopal Chitra [0000-0002-4149-0929] and Daniel Sim Chee Chien
Abstract – The three primary sources of energy are fossil fuels, nuclear resources, and renewable resources. The research on renewable energy (RE) is gaining heightened attention, due to its broad availability, solar energy is currently very appealing for standalone systems, particularly in rural areas of developing countries. The rising expense of traditional energy sources was the main factor behind the 1970s boom in interest in solar energy harvesting. Solar tracking is a technique employed to optimize the alignment of solar collectors, so that they will be aligned to receive maximum sun light during daytime. The goal is to maximize the collection of solar energy by ensuring the panels receive the highest possible solar irradiation consistently. In this paper, the design, implementation, and performance evaluation of a Dual Axis Solar Tracker (DAST) that uses astronomical equations for accurate solar location are presented. The tracker seeks to maximise the incident solar radiation on the modules by modifying the orientation of the solar panels. The proposed methodology is designed as a cost-effective system by using 3D printing technology. The dual axis robotic arm printed with additive manufacturing becomes the efficient tracker. The proposed system integrates celestial mechanics to precisely calculate the sun’s position with respect to the tracker location. The results are compared with the existing literature and seems to be more accurate.
Cite this chapter as:
Bhuvaneswari, T., Chitra, V., & Sim, D. C. C. (2025). Development of a GPS based dual-axis robotic arm for solar tracking system utilising astronomical equations. In M. J. Hossen, M. T. Soe, T. Bhuvaneswari & J. E. Raja (Eds.). Key applications of robotics and communication systems (pp. 131−153). MMU Press.
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