Showing papers by "Damien Chablat published in 2008"

Self-Motions of General 3-RPR Planar Parallel Robots

Abstract: We study the kinematic geometry of general 3- R PR planar parallel robots with actuated base joints. These robots, while largely overlooked, have simple direct kinematics and large singularity-free workspace. Furthermore, their kinematic geometry is the same as that of a newly developed parallel robot with SCARA-type motions. Starting from the direct and inverse kinematic model, the expressions for the singularity loci of 3- R PR planar parallel robots are determined. Then, the global behavior at all singularities is geometrically described by studying the degeneracy of the direct kinematic model. Special cases of self-motions are then examined and the degree of freedom gained in such special configurations is kinematically interpreted. Finally, a practical example is discussed and experimental validations performed on an actual robot prototype are presented.

Self-Motions of General 3-RPR Planar Parallel Robots

Abstract: This paper studies the kinematic geometry of general 3-RPR planar parallel robots with actuated base joints. These robots, while largely overlooked, have simple direct kinematics and large singularity-free workspace. Furthermore, their kinematic geometry is the same as that of a newly developed parallel robot with SCARA-type motions. Starting from the direct and inverse kinematic model, the expressions for the singularity loci of 3-RPR planar parallel robots are determined. Then, the global behaviour at all singularities is geometrically described by studying the degeneracy of the direct kinematic model. Special cases of self-motions are then examined and the degree of freedom gained in such special configurations is kinematically interpreted. Finally, a practical example is discussed and experimental validations performed on an actual robot prototype are presented.

Kinetostatic Performance of a Planar Parallel Mechanism with Variable Actuation

Abstract: This paper deals with a new planar parallel mechanism with variable actuation and its kinetostatic performance. A drawback of parallel mechanisms is the non homogeneity of kinetostatic performance within their workspace. The common approach to solve this problem is the introduction of actuation redundancy, that involves force control algorithms. Another approach, highlighted in this paper, is to select the actuated joint in each limb with regard to the pose of the end-effector. First, the architecture of the mechanism and two kinetostatic performance indices are described. Then, the actuating modes of the mechanism are compared.

Kinetostatic Performance of a Planar Parallel Mechanism with Variable Actuation

Abstract: This paper deals with a new planar parallel mechanism with variable actuation and its kinetostatic performance. A drawback of parallel mechanisms is the non-homogeneity of kinetostatic performance within their workspace. The common approach to solve this problem is the introduction of actuation redundancy, that involves force control algorithms. Another approach, highlighted in this paper, is to select the actuated joint in each limb with regard to the pose of the end-effector. First, the architecture of the mechanism and two kinetostatic performance indices are described. Then, the actuating modes of the mechanism are compared.

A vision-based computed torque control for parallel kinematic machines

Abstract: In this paper, a novel approach for parallel kinematic machine control relying on a fast exteroceptive measure is implemented and validated on the Orthoglide robot. This approach begins with rewriting the robot models as a function of the only end-effector pose. It is shown that such an operation reduces the model complexity. Then, this approach uses a classical Cartesian space computed torque control with a fast exteroceptive measure, reducing the control schemes complexity. Simulation results are given to show the expected performance improvements and experiments prove the practical feasibility of the approach.

Stiffness analysis of 3-d.o.f. overconstrained translational parallel manipulators

Abstract: The paper presents a new stiffness modelling method for overconstrained parallel manipulators, which is applied to 3-d.o.f. translational mechanisms. It is based on a multidimensional lumped-parameter model that replaces the link flexibility by localized 6-d.o.f. virtual springs. In contrast to other works, the method includes a FEA-based link stiffness evaluation and employs a new solution strategy of the kinetostatic equations, which allows computing the stiffness matrix for the overconstrained architectures and for the singular manipulator postures. The advantages of the developed technique are confirmed by application examples, which deal with comparative stiffness analysis of two translational parallel manipulators.

SINGULAB - A Graphical user Interface for the Singularity Analysis of Parallel Robots based on Grassmann-Cayley Algebra

Abstract: This paper presents SinguLab, a graphical user interface for the singularity analysis of parallel robots. The algorithm is based on Grassmann-Cayley algebra. The proposed tool is interactive and introduces the designer to the singularity analysis performed by this method, showing all the stages along the procedure and eventually showing the solution algebraically and graphically, allowing as well the singularity verification of different robot poses.

Framework for Dynamic Evaluation of Muscle Fatigue in Manual Handling Work

Abstract: Muscle fatigue is defined as the point at which the muscle is no longer able to sustain the required force or work output level. The overexertion of muscle force and muscle fatigue can induce acute pain and chronic pain in human body. When muscle fatigue is accumulated, the functional disability can be resulted as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). There are several posture exposure analysis methods useful for rating the MSD risks, but they are mainly based on static postures. Even in some fatigue evaluation methods, muscle fatigue evaluation is only available for static postures, but not suitable for dynamic working process. Meanwhile, some existing muscle fatigue models based on physiological models cannot be easily used in industrial ergonomic evaluations. The external dynamic load is definitely the most important factor resulting muscle fatigue, thus we propose a new fatigue model under a framework for evaluating fatigue in dynamic working processes. Under this framework, virtual reality system is taken to generate virtual working environment, which can be interacted with the work with haptic interfaces and optical motion capture system. The motion information and load information are collected and further processed to evaluate the overall work load of the worker based on dynamic muscle fatigue models and other work evaluation criterions and to give new information to characterize the penibility of the task in design process.

Singularity Analysis of Limited-DOF Parallel Manipulators Using Grassmann–Cayley Algebra

Abstract: This paper characterizes geometrically the singularities of limited-DOF parallel manipulators The geometric conditions associated with the dependency of six Plucker vector of lines (finite and infinite) constituting the rows of the inverse Jacobian matrix are formulated using Grassmann–Cayley algebra Manipulators under consideration do not need to have a passive spherical joint somewhere in each leg This study is illustrated with three example robots

SinguLab – A Graphical User Interface for the Singularity Analysis of Parallel Robots Based on Grassmann–Cayley Algebra

Abstract: This paper presents SinguLab, a graphical user interface for the singularity analysis of parallel robots. The algorithm is based on Grassmann-Cayley algebra. The proposed tool is interactive and introduces the designer to the singularity analysis performed by this method, showing all the stages along the procedure and eventually showing the solution algebraically and graphically, allowing as well the singularity verification of different robot poses.

Framework for dynamic evaluation of muscle fatigue in manual handling work

Abstract: Muscle fatigue is defined as the point at which the muscle is no longer able to sustain the required force or work output level. The overexertion of muscle force and muscle fatigue can induce acute pain and chronic pain in human body. When muscle fatigue is accumulated, the functional disability can be resulted as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). There are several posture exposure analysis methods useful for rating the MSD risks, but they are mainly based on static postures. Even in some fatigue evaluation methods, muscle fatigue evaluation is only available for static postures, but not suitable for dynamic working process. Meanwhile, some existing muscle fatigue models based on physiological models cannot be easily used in industrial ergonomic evaluations. The external dynamic load is definitely the most important factor resulting muscle fatigue, thus we propose a new fatigue model under a framework for evaluating fatigue in dynamic working processes. Under this framework, virtual reality system is taken to generate virtual working environment, which can be interacted with the work with haptic interfaces and optical motion capture system. The motion information and load information are collected and further processed to evaluate the overall work load of the worker based on dynamic muscle fatigue models and other work evaluation criterions and to give new information to characterize the penibility of the task in design process.

A new muscle fatigue and recovery model and its ergonomics application in human simulation

Abstract: Although automatic techniques have been employed in manufacturing industries to increase productivity and efficiency, there are still lots of manual handling jobs, especially for assembly and maintenance jobs. In these jobs, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the major health problems due to overload and cumulative physical fatigue. With combination of conventional posture analysis techniques, digital human modelling and simulation (DHM) techniques have been developed and commercialized to evaluate the potential physical exposures. However, those ergonomics analysis tools are mainly based on posture analysis techniques, and until now there is still no fatigue index available in the commercial software to evaluate the physical fatigue easily and quickly. In this paper, a new muscle fatigue and recovery model is proposed and extended to evaluate joint fatigue level in manual handling jobs. A special application case is described and analyzed by digital human simulation technique.

Non-Singular Assembly-mode Changing Motions for 3-RPR Parallel Manipulators

Abstract: When moving from one arbitrary location at another, a parallel manipulator may change its assembly-mode without crossing a singularity. Because the non-singular change of assembly-mode cannot be simply detected, the actual assembly-mode during motion is difficult to track. This paper proposes a global explanatory approach to help better understand non-singular assembly-mode changing motions for 3-RPR planar parallel manipulators. The approach consists in fixing one of the actuated joints and analyzing the configuration-space as a surface in a 3-dimensional space. Such a global description makes it possible to display all possible non-singular assembly-mode changing trajectories.

Changing Assembly Modes without Passing Parallel Singularities in Non-Cuspidal 3-RPR Planar Parallel Robots

Abstract: This paper demonstrates that any general 3-DOF three-legged planar parallel robot with extensible legs ca n change assembly modes without passing through parallel sin gu- larities (configurations where the mobile platform loses it s stiff- ness). While the results are purely theoretical, this paperques- tions the very definition of parallel singularities.

A Vision-based Computed Torque Control for Parallel Kinematic Machines

Abstract: In this paper, a novel approach for parallel kinematic machine control relying on a fast exteroceptive measure is implemented and validated on the Orthoglide robot. This approach begins with rewriting the robot models as a function of the only end-effector pose. It is shown that such an operation reduces the model complexity. Then, this approach uses a classical Cartesian space computed torque control with a fast exteroceptive measure, reducing the control schemes complexity. Simulation results are given to show the expected performance improvements and experiments prove the practical feasibility of the approach.

Kinematic and Dynamic Analyses of the Orthoglide 5-axis

Abstract: This paper deals with the kinematic and dynamic analyses of the Orthoglide 5-axis, a five-degree-of-freedom manipulator. It is derived from two manipulators: i) the Orthoglide 3-axis; a three dof translational manipulator and ii) the Agile eye; a parallel spherical wrist. First, the kinematic and dynamic models of the Orthoglide 5-axis are developed. The geometric and inertial parameters of the manipulator are determined by means of a CAD software. Then, the required motors performances are evaluated for some test trajectories. Finally, the motors are selected in the catalogue from the previous results.

Kinematic Analysis of the vertebra of an eel like robot

Abstract: The kinematic analysis of a spherical wrist with parallel architecture is the object of this article. This study is part of a larger French project, which aims to design and to build an eel like robot to imitate the eel swimming. To implement direct and inverse kinematics on the control law of the prototype, we need to evaluate the workspace without any collisions between the different bodies. The tilt and torsion parameters are used to represent the workspace.

Kinematic and Dynamic Analyses of the Orthoglide 5-axis

Abstract: This paper deals with the kinematic and dynamic analyses of the Orthoglide 5-axis, a five-degree-of-freedom manipulator. It is derived from two manipulators: i) the Orthoglide 3-axis; a three dof translational manipulator and ii) the Agile eye; a parallel spherical wrist. First, the kinematic and dynamic models of the Orthoglide 5-axis are developed. The geometric and inertial parameters of the manipulator are determined by means of a CAD software. Then, the required motors performances are evaluated for some test trajectories. Finally, the motors are selected in the catalogue from the previous results.

Singularity Analysis of Limited-dof Parallel Manipulators using Grassmann-Cayley Algebra

Abstract: This paper characterizes geometrically the singularities of limited DOF parallel manipulators. The geometric conditions associated with the dependency of six Pl\"ucker vector of lines (finite and infinite) constituting the rows of the inverse Jacobian matrix are formulated using Grassmann-Cayley algebra. Manipulators under consideration do not need to have a passive spherical joint somewhere in each leg. This study is illustrated with three example robots

Analyse de la rigidité des machines outils 3 axes d'architecture parallèle hyperstatique

Abstract: The paper presents a new stiffness modelling method for overconstrained parallel manipulators, which is applied to 3-d.o.f. translational mechanisms. It is based on a multidimensional lumped-parameter model that replaces the link flexibility by localized 6-d.o.f. virtual springs. In contrast to other works, the method includes a FEA-based link stiffness evaluation and employs a new solution strategy of the kinetostatic equations, which allows computing the stiffness matrix for the overconstrained architectures and for the singular manipulator postures. The advantages of the developed technique are confirmed by application examples, which deal with comparative stiffness analysis of two translational parallel manipulators.

Analyse de la rigidit\'e des machines outils 3 axes d'architecture parall\`ele hyperstatique

Abstract: The paper presents a new stiffness modelling method for overconstrained parallel manipulators, which is applied to 3-d.o.f. translational mechanisms. It is based on a multidimensional lumped-parameter model that replaces the link flexibility by localized 6-d.o.f. virtual springs. In contrast to other works, the method includes a FEA-based link stiffness evaluation and employs a new solution strategy of the kinetostatic equations, which allows computing the stiffness matrix for the overconstrained architectures and for the singular manipulator postures. The advantages of the developed technique are confirmed by application examples, which deal with comparative stiffness analysis of two translational parallel manipulators.

Kinematic Analysis of the Vertebra of an Eel Like Robot

Abstract: The kinematic analysis of a spherical wrist with parallel architecture is the object of this article. This study is part of a larger French project, which aims to design and to build an eel like robot to imitate the eel swimming. To implement direct and inverse kinematics on the control law of the prototype, we need to evaluate the workspace without any collisions between the different bodies. The tilt and torsion parameters are used to represent the workspace.Copyright © 2008 by ASME

Path Planner for Objects, Robots and Mannequins by Multi-Agents Systems or Motion Captures

Abstract: In order to optimise the costs and time of design of the new products while improving their quality, concurrent engineering is based on the digital model of these products. However, in order to be able to avoid definitively physical model without loss of information, new tools must be available. Especially, a tool making it possible to check simply and quickly the maintainability of complex mechanical sets using the numerical model is necessary. Since one decade, the MCM team of IRCCyN works on the creation of tools for the generation and the analysis of trajectories of virtual mannequins. The simulation of human tasks can be carried out either by robot-like simulation or by simulation by motion capture. This paper presents some results on the both two methods. The first method is based on a multi-agent system and on a digital mock-up technology, to assess an efficient path planner for a manikin or a robot for access and visibility task taking into account ergonomic constraints or joint limits. The human operator is integrated in the process optimisation to contribute to a global perception of the environment. This operator cooperates, in real-time, with several automatic local elementary agents. In the second method, we worked with the CEA and EADS/CCR to solve the constraints related to the evolution of human virtual in its environment on the basis of data resulting from motion capture system. An approach using of the virtual guides was developed to allow to the user the realization of precise trajectory in absence of force feedback.

Stiffness Analysis of 3-d.o.f. Overconstrained Translational Parallel Manipulators

Abstract: The paper presents a new stiffness modelling method for overconstrained parallel manipulators, which is applied to 3-d.o.f. translational mechanisms. It is based on a multidimensional lumped-parameter model that replaces the link flexibility by localized 6-d.o.f. virtual springs. In contrast to other works, the method includes a FEA-based link stiffness evaluation and employs a new solution strategy of the kinetostatic equations, which allows computing the stiffness matrix for the overconstrained architectures and for the singular manipulator postures. The advantages of the developed technique are confirmed by application examples, which deal with comparative stiffness analysis of two translational parallel manipulators.

Path planner for objects, robots and mannequins by multi-agents systems or motion captures

Abstract: In order to optimise the costs and time of design of the new products while improving their quality, concurrent engineering is based on the digital model of these products. However, in order to be able to avoid definitively physical model without loss of information, new tools must be available. Especially, a tool making it possible to check simply and quickly the maintainability of complex mechanical sets using the numerical model is necessary. Since one decade, the MCM team of IRCCyN works on the creation of tools for the generation and the analysis of trajectories of virtual mannequins. The simulation of human tasks can be carried out either by robot-like simulation or by simulation by motion capture. This paper presents some results on the both two methods. The first method is based on a multi-agent system and on a digital mock-up technology, to assess an efficient path planner for a manikin or a robot for access and visibility task taking into account ergonomic constraints or joint limits. The human operator is integrated in the process optimisation to contribute to a global perception of the environment. This operator cooperates, in real-time, with several automatic local elementary agents. In the second method, we worked with the CEA and EADS/CCR to solve the constraints related to the evolution of human virtual in its environment on the basis of data resulting from motion capture system. An approach using of the virtual guides was developed to allow to the user the realization of precise trajectory in absence of force feedback.

Changing Assembly Modes without Passing Parallel Singularities in Non-Cuspidal 3-R\underline{P}R Planar Parallel Robots

Abstract: This paper demonstrates that any general 3-DOF three-legged planar parallel robot with extensible legs can change assembly modes without passing through parallel singularities (configurations where the mobile platform loses its stiffness). While the results are purely theoretical, this paper questions the very definition of parallel singularities.

Changing Assembly Modes without Passing Parallel Singularities in Non-Cuspidal 3-R\underline{P}R Planar Parallel Robots

Abstract: This paper demonstrates that any general 3-DOF three-legged planar parallel robot with extensible legs can change assembly modes without passing through parallel singularities (configurations where the mobile platform loses its stiffness). While the results are purely theoretical, this paper questions the very definition of parallel singularities.

Calibration of 3-d.o.f. Translational Parallel Manipulators Using Leg Observations

Abstract: The paper proposes a novel approach for the geometrical model calibration of quasi-isotropic parallel kinematic mechanisms of the Orthoglide family. It is based on the observations of the manipulator leg parallelism during motions between the specific test postures and employs a low-cost measuring system composed of standard comparator indicators attached to the universal magnetic stands. They are sequentially used for measuring the deviation of the relevant leg location while the manipulator moves the TCP along the Cartesian axes. Using the measured differences, the developed algorithm estimates the joint offsets and the leg lengths that are treated as the most essential parameters. Validity of the proposed calibration technique is confirmed by the experimental results.