Methods and systems for training a broad population of learners in the field of robotics and automation technology based on physical interactions with a robotic training system are described herein. Specifically, a robotic instructor provides audio-visual instruction and physically interacts with human learners to effectively teach robotics and automation concepts and evaluate learner understanding of those concepts. In some examples, a training robot instructs and demonstrates encoder operation, feedback control, and robot motion coordination with external objects and events while physically interacting with a human learner. In some examples, interlock logic and waypoints of the training robot are programmed by the human user while the training robot physically interacts with the human learner. In a further aspect, a training robot evaluates the proficiency of a human learner with respect to particular robotic concepts. Future instruction by the training robot is determined in part by the measured proficiency.
Robotic Instructor And Demonstrator To Train Humans As Automation Specialists