Enumeration of Configurations and Their Kinematics for ModRED II Modular Robots

2017 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kazi M. Hossain ◽  
Carl A. Nelson ◽  
Prithviraj Dasgupta
Keyword(s):  
Graph Theory ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Modular Robots ◽  
Environmental Constraints ◽  
Modular Robotics ◽  
Kinematic Method ◽  
Connection Type ◽  
Robotic Applications

Modular robotics is a popular topic for robotic applications and design. The reason behind this popularity is the ability to use and reuse the same robot modules for accomplishing different tasks through reconfiguration. The robots are capable of self-reconfiguration based on the requirements of the task and environmental constraints. It is possible to have a large number of configuration combinations for the same set of modules. Therefore, it is important to identify unique configurations from among the full set of possible configurations and establish a kinematic strategy for each before reconfiguring the robots into a new shape. This becomes more difficult for robot units having more than one connection type and more degrees of freedom (DOF) For example, ModRED II modules have two types of connections and four DOF per module. In this paper, the set of configurations is enumerated, and determination of configuration isomorphism is accomplished for ModRED II modules using graph theory. Kinematic equations are then derived for unique configurations. The kinematic method is then demonstrated for certain example configurations using ModRED II modules.

Enumeration of Configurations and Their Kinematics for ModRED II Modular Robots

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kazi M. Hossain ◽  
Carl A. Nelson ◽  
Prithviraj Dasgupta
Keyword(s):  
Graph Theory ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Modular Robots ◽  
Environmental Constraints ◽  
Modular Robotics ◽  
Kinematic Method ◽  
Connection Type ◽  
Robotic Applications

Modular robotics is a popular topic for robotic applications and design. The reason behind this popularity is the ability to use and re-use the same robot modules for accomplishing different tasks through reconfiguration. The robots are capable of self-reconfiguration based on the requirements of the task and environmental constraints. It is possible to have a large number of configuration combinations for the same set of modules. Therefore, it is important to identify unique configurations from among the full set of possible configurations and establish a kinematic strategy for each before reconfiguring the robots into a new shape. This becomes more difficult for robot units having more than one connection type and more degrees of freedom. For example, ModRED II modules have two types of connections and four degrees of freedom per module. In this paper, the set of configurations is enumerated, and determination of configuration isomorphism is accomplished for ModRED II modules using graph theory. Kinematic equations are then derived for unique configurations. The kinematic method is then demonstrated for certain example configurations using ModRED II modules.

scholarly journals Software Sensor to Enhance Online Parametric Identification for Nonlinear Closed-Loop Systems for Robotic Applications

Sensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (11) ◽  
pp. 3653
Author(s):  
Lilia Sidhom ◽  
Ines Chihi ◽  
Ernest Nlandu Kamavuako
Keyword(s):  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Closed Loop ◽  
Sliding Mode ◽  
Robot Manipulator ◽  
Parametric Identification ◽  
Recursive Least Squares ◽  
Unknown Parameters ◽  
Closed Loop Identification ◽  
Input Variables ◽  
Robotic Applications

This paper proposes an online direct closed-loop identification method based on a new dynamic sliding mode technique for robotic applications. The estimated parameters are obtained by minimizing the prediction error with respect to the vector of unknown parameters. The estimation step requires knowledge of the actual input and output of the system, as well as the successive estimate of the output derivatives. Therefore, a special robust differentiator based on higher-order sliding modes with a dynamic gain is defined. A proof of convergence is given for the robust differentiator. The dynamic parameters are estimated using the recursive least squares algorithm by the solution of a system model that is obtained from sampled positions along the closed-loop trajectory. An experimental validation is given for a 2 Degrees Of Freedom (2-DOF) robot manipulator, where direct and cross-validations are carried out. A comparative analysis is detailed to evaluate the algorithm’s effectiveness and reliability. Its performance is demonstrated by a better-quality torque prediction compared to other differentiators recently proposed in the literature. The experimental results highlight that the differentiator design strongly influences the online parametric identification and, thus, the prediction of system input variables.

Determination of the Workspace of a Three-Degrees-of-Freedom Parallel Manipulator Using a Three-Dimensional Computer-Aided-Design Software Package and the Concept of Virtual Chains1

2015 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Johnson ◽  
Xianwen Kong ◽  
James Ritchie
Keyword(s):  
Computer Aided Design ◽  
Parallel Manipulator ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Graphical Representation ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Parallel Manipulators ◽  
Workspace Analysis ◽  
Computer Aided ◽  
Aided Design

The determination of workspace is an essential step in the development of parallel manipulators. By extending the virtual-chain (VC) approach to the type synthesis of parallel manipulators, this technical brief proposes a VC approach to the workspace analysis of parallel manipulators. This method is first outlined before being illustrated by the production of a three-dimensional (3D) computer-aided-design (CAD) model of a 3-RPS parallel manipulator and evaluating it for the workspace of the manipulator. Here, R, P and S denote revolute, prismatic and spherical joints respectively. The VC represents the motion capability of moving platform of a manipulator and is shown to be very useful in the production of a graphical representation of the workspace. Using this approach, the link interferences and certain transmission indices can be easily taken into consideration in determining the workspace of a parallel manipulator.

Investigation of Train Dynamics in Passing Through Curves Using a Full Model

Joint Rail ◽  
2004 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Durali ◽  
Mohammad Mehdi Jalili Bahabadi
Keyword(s):  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Equations Of Motion ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Full Model ◽  
Bogie Frame ◽  
Nonlinear Characteristics ◽  
Train Derailment ◽  
Train Dynamics

In this article a train model is developed for studying train derailment in passing through bends. The model is three dimensional, nonlinear, and considers 43 degrees of freedom for each wagon. All nonlinear characteristics of suspension elements as well as flexibilities of wagon body and bogie frame, and the effect of coupler forces are included in the model. The equations of motion for the train are solved numerically for different train conditions. A neural network was constructed as an element in solution loop for determination of wheel-rail contact geometry. Derailment factor was calculated for each case. The results are presented and show the major role of coupler forces on possible train derailment.

A NUCLEAR MANY-BODY THEORY AT FINITE TEMPERATURE APPLIED TO A PROTONEUTRON STAR

2002 ◽  
Vol 11 (02) ◽  
pp. 83-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
GUILHERME F. MARRANGHELLO ◽  
CESAR A. Z. VASCONCELLOS ◽  
MANFRED DILLIG ◽  
J. A. DE FREITAS PACHECO
Keyword(s):  
Phase Transition ◽  
Nuclear Matter ◽  
Finite Temperature ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Many Body ◽  
Many Body Theory ◽  
The Masses ◽  
Protoneutron Stars ◽  
Protoneutron Star

Thermodynamical properties of nuclear matter are studied in the framework of an effective many-body field theory at finite temperature, considering the Sommerfeld approximation. We perform the calculations by using the nonlinear Boguta and Bodmer model, extended by the inclusion of the fundamental baryon octet and leptonic degrees of freedom. Trapped neutrinos are also included in order to describe protoneutron star properties through the integration of the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff equations, from which we obtain, beyond the standard relations for the masses and radii of protoneutron stars as functions of the central density, new results of these quantities as functions of temperature. Our predictions include: the determination of an absolute value for the limiting mass of protoneutron stars; new structural aspects on the nuclear matter phase transition via the behavior of the specific heat and, through the inclusion of quark degrees of freedom, the properties of a hadron-quark phase transition and hybrid protoneutron stars

A Hybrid Highly Parallelizable Algorithm for the Dynamics of Rigid Body Chain Systems

1999 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shanzhong Duan ◽  
Kurt S. Anderson
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Equations Of Motion ◽  
Constraint Forces ◽  
Dynamics Of Rigid Body ◽  
A Chain ◽  
Explicit Determination ◽  
Order Algorithm

Abstract The paper presents a new hybrid parallelizable low order algorithm for modeling the dynamic behavior of multi-rigid-body chain systems. The method is based on cutting certain system interbody joints so that largely independent multibody subchain systems are formed. These subchains interact with one another through associated unknown constraint forces f¯c at the cut joints. The increased parallelism is obtainable through cutting the joints and the explicit determination of associated constraint loads combined with a sequential O(n) procedure. In other words, sequential O(n) procedures are performed to form and solve equations of motion within subchains and parallel strategies are used to form and solve constraint equations between subchains in parallel. The algorithm can easily accommodate the available number of processors while maintaining high efficiency. An O[(n+m)Np+m(1+γ)Np+mγlog2Np](0<γ<1) performance will be achieved with Np processors for a chain system with n degrees of freedom and m constraints due to cutting of interbody joints.

Modular Robot Connection Design

1992 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert O. Ambrose ◽  
Delbert Tesar
Keyword(s):  
Product Line ◽  
Modular Robots ◽  
Modular Robotics ◽  
Modular Robot ◽  
Manufacturing Costs ◽  
Mechanical Connection ◽  
Automation Equipment ◽  
Connection Design

Abstract The ability to reconfigure automation equipment will reduce the manufacturing costs of obsolesence, training and maintenance while allowing for a faster response to changes in the product line. A modular philosophy will give the user these advantages, but only if based on a common connection standard. A mechanical connection was selected for the UT Modular Robotics Testbed and used in the designs of four robot joint modules and nine robot link modules. The standard was also used for assecories, such as the testand, loading fixtures and endeffectors. Three years of experiments with this connection standard are reviewed, and used as the basis for new connection designs. Experiments using multiple modules assembled as dextrous robots, as well as experiments focusing on the connection itself, will be described. Goals for future connection standards include designs with upward compatibility, combinations of both mechanical and electrical fittings, and robot triendly constraints that allow for automated or remote assembly of modular robots.

Controlling Modular Reconfigurable Robots With Handheld Smart Devices

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Ko ◽  
Nalaka Kahawatte ◽  
Harry H. Cheng
Keyword(s):  
Graphical User Interface ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Robotic Systems ◽  
Effective Control ◽  
Smart Devices ◽  
Modular Robots ◽  
Reconfigurable Robots ◽  
Processing Power ◽  
Static Data ◽  
Remote Controller

Highly reconfigurable modular robots face unique teleoperation challenges due to their geometry, configurability, high number of degrees of freedom and complexity. Current methodology for controlling reconfigurable modular robots typically use gait tables to control the modules. Gait tables are static data structures and do not readily support realtime teleoperation. Teleoperation techniques for traditional wheeled, flying, or submerged robots typically use a set of joysticks to control the robots. However, these traditional methods of robot teleoperation are not suitable for reconfigurable modular robotic systems which may have dozens of controllable degrees of freedom. This research shows that modern cell phones serve as highly effective control platforms for modular robots because of their programmability, flexibility, wireless communication capabilities, and increased processing power. As a result of this research, a versatile Graphical User Interface, a set of libraries and tools have been developed which even a novice robotics enthusiast can use to easily program their mobile phones to control their hobby project. These libraries will be beneficial in any situation where it is effective for the operator to use an off-the-shelf, relatively inexpensive, hand-held mobile phone as a remote controller rather than a considerably heavy and bulky remote controllers which are popular today. Several usage examples and experiments are presented which demonstrate the controller’s ability to effectively control a modular robot to perform a series of complex gaits and poses, as well as navigating a module through an obstacle course.

Maximum load determination of nonholonomic mobile manipulator using hierarchical optimal control

Robotica ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 53-65 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. H. Korayem ◽  
V. Azimirad ◽  
H. Vatanjou ◽  
A. H. Korayem
Keyword(s):  
Optimal Control ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Maximum Load ◽  
Mobile Manipulator ◽  
Interaction Terms ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Interaction Variables ◽  
Maximum Allowable Dynamic Load

SUMMARYThis paper presents a new method using hierarchical optimal control for path planning and calculating maximum allowable dynamic load (MADL) of wheeled mobile manipulator (WMM). This method is useful for high degrees of freedom WMMs. First, the overall system is decoupled to a set of subsystems, and then, hierarchical optimal control is applied on them. The presented algorithm is a two-level hierarchical algorithm. In the first level, interaction terms between subsystems are fixed, and in the second level, the optimization problem for subsystems is solved. The results of second level are used for calculating new estimations of interaction variables in the first level. For calculating MADL, the load on the end effector is increased until actuators get into saturation. Given a large-scale robot, we show how the presenting in distributed hierarchy in optimal control helps to find MADL fast. Also, it enables us to treat with complicated cost functions that are generated by obstacle avoidance terms. The effectiveness of this approach on simulation case studies for different types of WMMs as well as an experiment for a mobile manipulator called Scout is shown.

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