Papers by Keyword: PhysX

Abstract: Soft robots are robots made of soft materials and actuators. Previously we proposed the HPN (Honeycomb PneuNets) Robot, where PneuNets were placed as actuators into honeycomb shaped elastomer. In this paper, we present some progress of this effort. A random search algorithm is applied to plan the obstacle-avoid movements of an HPN robot. We test it through several cases, and the results showed that the algorithm can work effectively. We introduce an HPN robot prototype, which is made of RTV-2 silicone rubber. Preliminary experiments showed that some good expansion rate and flexibility can be achieved. A piston and soft body simulation model of HPN robots is also presented, which can mimic the basic behaviors of the HPN robot.

Abstract: To replicate the scene of bridge collapse realistically, accurately and completely, this paper proposes a scene simulation method of bridge collapse based Finite Element (FE) analysis. On the basis of suitable scene model of bridge, 3D animation of bridge collapse is implemented by the callback of graphics engine Open Scene Graph (OSG) and special effects of bridge collapse are also created by physics engine physX. In addition, terrain and surroundings are added into the scene simulation. The collapse animation proves to be consistent with FE simulation by comparison and the scene simulation is more realistic and complete due to the special effects and the rich scene. This study provides an important reference for analysis of collapse accidents of bridges.