How does a pneumatic system work when used in robotics?
This question is meant to provide the interviewer with a picture of how well you understand the various systems used in robotics. As a robot programmer, you will be writing software that will control the electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and other systems within a robotic device. You need to have an in-depth understanding of each of these systems to write code to control them. You should anticipate many questions similar to this one throughout the interview.
Even if your experience does not include writing code to control pneumatic systems, you should still have a good understanding of them, especially if the organization uses pneumatics in its robotic devices. By researching the organization before the interview, you can determine the types of systems their products and devices employ. Once you know this, you can then update your knowledge of these or at least refresh it. This will provide you with the best opportunity for success during the interview.
"Pneumatic systems are driven using compressed gases or fluids. They combined pumps, cylinders, actuators, transmission lines, and other components to move the various parts of a robotic device when commanded to do so. Writing code for these devices is similar to creating programs for electromechanical devices. The only difference is the interface of the system."
