Robot programming methods: which of the following methods can be used to tell a robot what actions it must perform?

Introduction / Context:
Industrial robots can be programmed in several ways, each suiting different applications and skill levels. Two widely used approaches are lead-through (physically guiding the robot) and software-based methods (teach pendant steps or offline programming in a workstation environment).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Walk-through/lead-through captures positions by physically moving the robot through desired paths.
• Software programming defines motions, I/O, and logic using pendant languages or offline tools.
• Mechanical stops only define limits; they do not encode full tasks.

Concept / Approach:
Teach methods reduce setup time for path-intensive applications (e.g., spray, weld) by capturing trajectories directly. Software programming offers precision, logic control, and reuse, supporting parameterized routines, branching, and integration with sensors and PLCs. Together, these cover the majority of robot programming needs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate each method for its ability to encode task sequences.Confirm that walk-through captures positions while software programming defines and automates tasks.Recognize mechanical stops as safety/limit devices, not task programming.Select “(a) and (c).”

Verification / Alternative check:
Robot vendor manuals categorize programming into teach pendant, lead-through, and offline programming; mechanical stops appear in safety sections, not programming.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B limits motion ranges but cannot specify sequences. “None of the above” is false as (a) and (c) are valid programming approaches.

Common Pitfalls:
Relying solely on walk-through for precise applications where software constraints and digital I/O logic are necessary.

Final Answer:
(a) and (c).