Asokan Thondiyath

Bio: Asokan Thondiyath is an academic researcher from Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The author has contributed to research in topic(s): Robot & Control theory. The author has an hindex of 9, co-authored 70 publication(s) receiving 226 citation(s). Previous affiliations of Asokan Thondiyath include Intuitive Surgical.

Combinational scissor-grasper tool for use in laparoscopy

Abstract: Disclosed is a four-jawed combinational scissor-grasper surgical tool for use in laparoscopy. Cutting and grasping functionalities are respectively enabled via movement of a pair of such specially contoured jaw members sliding against or splaying apart from the other pair. Also disclosed are means for achieving selectable interlocking of jaw members and mechanical linkage for their actuation by human user.

Combining Lean and Six Sigma in the context of Systems Engineering design

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a combined framework for system design using Six Sigma and Lean concepts. Systems Engineering has evolved independently and there are numerous tools and techniques available to address issues that may arise in the design of systems. In the context of systems design, the application of Six Sigma and Lean concepts results in a flexible and adaptable framework. A combined framework is presented here that allows better visualization of the system-level components and their interactions at parametric level, and it also illuminates gaps that make way for continuous improvement. The Deming’s Plan-Do-Check-Act is the basis of this framework. Three case studies are presented to evaluate the application of this framework in the context of Systems Engineering design. The paper concludes with a summary of advantages of using a combined framework, its limitations and scope for future work. Design/methodology/approach – Six Sigma, Lean and Systems Engineering approaches...

Obstacle Avoidance Using Multi-Point Potential Field Approach for an Underactuated Flat-Fish Type AUV in Dynamic Environment

Abstract: This paper presents a multi-point potential field (MPPF) method for obstacle avoidance of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) in a 2D dynamic environment. In this method, an arc of predefined radius on a semicircle in the positive x-axis around the bow of an AUV is discretized into equiangular points with centre as the current position. By determining the point at which the minimum potential exists, the vehicle can be moved towards that point in 2D space. Here the analytical gradient of the total potential function is not calculated as it is not essentially required for moving the vehicle to the next position. The proposed obstacle avoidance algorithm is interfaced with the dynamic model of an underactuated flat-fish type AUV. The obstacle avoidance algorithm generates the path elements to the trajectory planner and the vehicle tracks the trajectory. The details of the algorithm and simulation results are presented.

Design and analysis of an underwater quadrotor - AQUAD

Abstract: A new configuration of underwater robotic vehicle, named AQUAD, is presented here. It is a configuration with four thrusters in a plane which is inspired from an aerial quadrotor system. The system is designed considering the hydrodynamic challenges, and mathematically modelled using Newton-Euler approach. A PID controller is used to control the attitude of the system and implemented with the model to analyze its behavior. The system is commanded with various inputs and the performance of the model with the controller is studied. A prototype of AQUAD is being developed and the system is to be tested in real time.

Out of the Crisis

Abstract: According to W. Edwards Deming, American companies require nothing less than a transformation of management style and of governmental relations with industry. In Out of the Crisis, originally published in 1982, Deming offers a theory of management based on his famous 14 Points for Management. Management's failure to plan for the future, he claims, brings about loss of market, which brings about loss of jobs. Management must be judged not only by the quarterly dividend, but by innovative plans to stay in business, protect investment, ensure future dividends, and provide more jobs through improved product and service. In simple, direct language, he explains the principles of management transformation and how to apply them.

Guidance And Control Of Ocean Vehicles

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Surgical Instrument with Shiftable Transmission

Abstract: A surgical tool having an elongated shaft having a proximal end and distal end. A surgical end effector is located about the distal end. The surgical end effector has a plurality of effector mechanisms comprising a plurality of degree of freedoms. An effector body is located at the proximal end. The effector body includes a plurality of motor interfaces for driving the plurality of effector mechanisms. A transmission is coupled to the effector body

a Dynamical Model of Muscle Activation, Fatigue and Recovery

Abstract: A dynamical model is presented as a framework for muscle activation, fatigue, and recovery. By describing the effects of muscle fatigue and recovery in terms of two phenomenological parameters (F, R), we develop a set of dynamical equations to describe the behavior of muscles as a group of motor units activated by voluntary effort. This model provides a macroscopic view for understanding biophysical mechanisms of voluntary drive, fatigue effect, and recovery in stimulating, limiting, and modulating the force output from muscles. The model is investigated under the condition in which brain effort is assumed to be constant. Experimental validation of the model is performed by fitting force data measured from healthy human subjects during a 3-min sustained maximal voluntary handgrip contraction. The experimental results confirm a theoretical inference from the model regarding the possibility of maximal muscle force production, and suggest that only 97% of the true maximal force can be reached under maximal voluntary effort, assuming that all motor units can be recruited voluntarily. The effects of different motor unit types, time-dependent brain effort, sources of artifacts, and other factors that could affect the model are discussed. The applications of the model are also discussed.

Fish-inspired robots: design, sensing, actuation, and autonomy--a review of research.

Abstract: Underwater robot designs inspired by the behavior, physiology, and anatomy of fishes can provide enhanced maneuverability, stealth, and energy efficiency. Over the last two decades, robotics researchers have developed and reported a large variety of fish-inspired robot designs. The purpose of this review is to report different types of fish-inspired robot designs based upon their intended locomotion patterns. We present a detailed comparison of various design features like sensing, actuation, autonomy, waterproofing, and morphological structure of fish-inspired robots reported in the past decade. We believe that by studying the existing robots, future designers will be able to create new designs by adopting features from the successful robots. The review also summarizes the open research issues that need to be taken up for the further advancement of the field and also for the deployment of fish-inspired robots in practice.