A Spatial Linkage Exoskeleton for a Shape-Adaptive Mobile Robot

With the goal of developing a spatial linkage exoskeleton for a shape-adaptive mobile robot, capable of navigating obstacle-laden environments through changes in geometry, initial research focused on the nature of axis transformations, and parameters affecting linkages, such as the Denavit-Hartenberg (DH) parameters. Building on this background, angulated linkages are developed such that a series of scissor pairs, two angulated linkages connected at their midpoints, forming a closed-loop. Using the DH parameters, the geometries are considered in the development of a planar model. A kinematic model is also developed to replicate the design in future work. A linkage was designed using SolidWorks, and then imported into MATLAB’s Simscape Multibody software where a visual, analytical model was developed. The nominal planar model acts as the basis of a spatial model. Using the spatial model, initial prototypes were built to verify the virtual model. A concept for an actuation mechanism is discussed, with a prototype built to identify any limitations. Through experimentation and analysis of the prototypes, areas for improvement in the design are identified. Future work is discussed to further mature the design and development of this solution.