Development of a locust-like jumping mechanism

Abstract

Jumping mechanism can be a very efficient mode of locomotion for small robots to overcome large obstacles on the ground and rough terrain. In this paper we present an underdevelopment of a locust-like jumping mechanism. The mechanism made of glass epoxy panel and spring mimics the locust's rear leg in terms of flexor and extensor. We use a spring for the extensor, and a string for the flexor. Experiments are conducted to measure the force of both flexor and extensor by using a load cell. Then we compare the relative ratio between these forces with the analysis result for motor selection in the final jumping mechanism later on.