Latest Papers

ASME Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics

  • An Improved Dual Quaternion Dynamic Movement Primitives-Based Algorithm for Robot-Agnostic Learning and Execution of Throwing Tasks
    on May 9, 2025 at 12:00 am

    AbstractInspired by human nature, roboticists have conceived robots as tools meant to be flexible, capable of performing a wide variety of tasks. Learning from demonstration methods allow us to “teach” robots the way we would perform tasks, in a versatile and adaptive manner. Dynamic movement primitives (DMP) aims for learning complex behaviors in such a way, representing tasks as stable, well-understood dynamical systems. By modeling movements over the SE(3) group, modeled primitives can be generalized for any robotic manipulator capable of full end-effector 3D movement. In this article, we present a robot-agnostic formulation of discrete DMP based on the dual quaternion algebra, oriented to modeling throwing movements. We consider adapted initial and final poses and velocities, all computed from a projectile kinematic model and from the goal at which the projectile is aimed. Experimental demonstrations are carried out in both a simulated and a real environment. Results support the effectiveness of the improved method formulation.

  • Chained Timoshenko Beam Constraint Model With Applications in Large Deflection Analysis of Compliant Mechanism
    on May 9, 2025 at 12:00 am

    AbstractAccurately analyzing the large deformation behaviors of compliant mechanisms has always been a significant challenge in the design process. The classical Euler–Bernoulli beam theory serves as the primary theoretical basis for the large deformation analysis of compliant mechanisms. However, neglecting shear effects may reduce the accuracy of modeling compliant mechanisms. Inspired by the beam constraint model, this study takes a step further to develop a Timoshenko beam constraint model (TBCM) for initially curved beams to capture intermediate-range deflections under beam-end loading conditions. On this basis, the chained Timoshenko beam constraint model (CTBCM) is proposed for large deformation analysis and kinetostatic modeling of compliant mechanisms. The accuracy and feasibility of the proposed TBCM and CTBCM have been validated through modeling and analysis of curved beam mechanisms. Results indicate that TBCM and CTBCM are more accurate compared to the Euler beam constraint model (EBCM) and the chained Euler beam constraint model (CEBCM). Additionally, CTBCM has been found to offer computational advantages, as it requires fewer discrete elements to achieve convergence.

Kinetostatics of Deployable Concrete Formworks

Abstract

To reform the traditional concrete formwork, an overconstrained deployable frame is designed. It is composed of closed loop deployable units formed by scissor-form elements and orthogonal telescoping rods. Using the reciprocal screw theory, the mobility of the deployable frame is studied, and it has one degree-of-freedom (DoF). To analyze the kinematic performance of the frame in the deployment and folding processes and the static characteristics under external loads at different deployed states, a general approach to analyzing the kinematics and statics by modeling in screw form is proposed. The velocities of joints could be solved in screw coordinates, the position and acceleration of joints could be obtained via a first-order numerical integration and a first-order numerical differential interpolation, respectively. Then, the position information for each joint can be forwarded onto the static equilibrium equations. Through the static analysis at each deployed state, the inner forces in each rod and the active control forces are derived. Kinematics and statics are associated using velocities as the global variable, which allows a unified analysis of mechanisms. This method is computationally highly efficient and also fits for kinematic and static analysis of different kinds of multi-rigid-body mechanisms.

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