Linear One-to-Many (OTM) system

Abstract

We report on progress on the "One-To-Many" (OTM) concept that allows a single electric motor to store energy in the form of elastic potential energy to drive multiple (e.g. hundred) motor units or independently controlled mechanical degrees of freedom. Critical to this concept is the OTM architecture which utilizes light weight, high-speed, energy efficient, robust, and cost-effective clutches that provide positional feedback. Here, we address linear springs as elastic mediums for energy storage and bi-stable solenoid based clutches that require minimal energy to transition between states. We analyze the power transfer of the system, discuss current and future designs and suggest avenues for potential applications of this practical technology.