Solid State Phenomena Vols. 166-167

Abstract: The manipulators, used to handling products or devices in industrial departments, needs to be self-balanced in order to compensate the different weight of the load in its position in the workspace. The known technical solution for self-balancing with counterweight, springs and actuators can be substituted through a band mechanism. The paper proposed a new self-balancing solution for the conco-balancer manipulator with band mechanism and presents its synthesis approach. The non-circular profile of the band mechanism permits the variation of the compensated moment in order to be easy manipulated the load by the operator.

Abstract: We are presenting a feature based mapping procedure applied on data reduction to the relevant information used for autonomous navigation. The proceeding is based on the evaluation of the environment using a SICK LD laser scanner. We assume that laser scanners have the advantage of producing reliable data with well understood characteristics for map generation. By implementing evolutive algorithms we process data into lines representing edges of the surrounding objects and create a simplified representation of the environment (feature based). Because of the dynamic generation and evolution of the map, during the movement of the autonomous vehicle we are considering of merging and fitting the data by applying a shape correlation. The goal of our project defines the capability of a fully autonomous vehicle to safely drive through the environment until reaching the standard parking lots and complete autonomous parking procedures.

Abstract: The double hexapod robot consists in two staged hexapod platforms – Stewart Gough platforms - combining in a certain measure the advantages of the robots with parallel kinematics and of the serial robots: high accuracy, high stiffness, fast response and small dimensions, having an extended operating space. Different modelling and construction aspects were described in few previous articles. Some examples of trajectories generated with this positioning system are now presented to illustrate its mobility, as well as the workspaces for one and two hexapods in order to make possible a visual comparison between the two volumes.

Abstract: Flexible grasping robots are needed for enabling automated, profitable and competitive production of small batch sizes including complex handling processes of often fragile objects. This development will create new conditions for value-adding activities in the production of the future world. The paper describes the related research work we have developed for sensor design, exploration and control for a robot gripping system, in order to analyze normal forces applied on the tactile pixels for gripping force control and generate tactile images for gripping positioning and object recognition. Section 1 gives an introduction of principles and technologies in tactile sensing for robot grippers. Section 2 presents the sensor cell (taxel) and array design and characterization. Section 3 introduces object recognition and shape analysis ideas showing a few preliminary examples, where geometrical features of small objects are identified. Slip detection in order to define optimum grasp pressure is addressed in section 4. The paper will conclude by addressing future ideas about how to judge or forecast a good grasp quality from sensory information.

Abstract: By using the finite displacements theory, this paper establishes relations of dependency between the initial and the final positions of the car batteries and the geometric and design parameters of the robot. For this, the structural kinematic scheme of the robot was used to apply gradually this theory, from the end-effector to the base of the robot. To utilize the finite displacements theory is necessary to register the two positions of the manipulated object in the same reference system. This thing can be done by using matrix relations which transforms the coordinates of the points from one system to another. These relations, along with specific relations from the finite displacements theory, lead to a matriceal algorithm suitable for computer implementation. The numerical application presented in this paper shows the final position of the car battery on the stock pallet, if the geometric parameters, the design parameters and the initial position of the battery are given.

Abstract: The paper proposes a large approach to pneumatic systems starting from the mathematical laws, written in the form of differential equations, which govern the operation of pneumatic systems and continuing with the simulation model. The concept of integrated design includes all approaches, needed for an optimal and deep system understanding, such as modeling, simulation and control. Pneumatic actuators have a nonlinear functionality because of air compressibility, the existing frictions and the valves nonlinearities. Because of these, they are used in high speed applications and simple positioning systems. Thus, the mathematical analyses of pneumatic systems have received a special attention. The differential equations were implemented in Matlab Simulink, and the model input represents the voltage on the electromagnetic valve, and the output seen on the "scope" represents the movement of the piston pneumatic axis. Some control algorithms are implemented and applied to the model and seen the basic differences.

Abstract: In this article is presented a short classification for walking robots that are based on leg locomotion and the main objectives that walking robots designers must achieve. The leg configuration of the walking robot is essential for obtaining a stable motion. Computer aided design process offers certain advantages for designers who attend to realize competitive products with fewer errors and in a short term. The aim of this article is to present the graphical results of the kinematic analysis of a new type of walking mechanism designed by Dutch physicist and sculptor Theo Jansen using Pro Engineer program and SAM, in order to compare the results.

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine the dynamic equations for a hybrid robot structure which consists of a mobile robot named PatrolBot and a 2TR robot serial structure. The motion equations will be determined on the basis of the new concepts in advanced mechanics, such as Matrix Exponentials Algorithm and Variation Principles in Analytical Mechanics, concerning the kinetic and acceleration energy part of important scientific researches deployed by the main author.

Abstract: In this paper the dynamics equations for a mobile robot, named PatrolBot, will be developed, using new concepts in advanced mechanics, based on important scientific researches of the main author, concerning the kinetic energy. In keeping the fact that the mathematical models of the mobile platforms are different besides the other robots types, due to nonholonomic constraints, these dynamic control functions, will be computed, according to these restrictions for robot motion.

Abstract: Socially Assistive Robotics is a newly emerging area of robotics where robots are used to help a human through social interaction. This paper describes an ongoing project on the use of robotics as therapeutically or educationally useful tools for treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The robotic Lego NXT platform was used to develop an economical, practical and efficient means of helping teach social behavior to individuals with ASD in school/home environments. In addition, our approach to treatment is described as an educational intervention which is a combination of Socially Assistive Robotics, the DIR/Floortime intervention model and social script/stories.