I(CES)-cubes: a modular self-reconfigurable bipartite robotic system

Cem Unsal; Han Kiliccote; Pradeep K. Khosla

doi:10.1117/12.360346

26 August 1999 I(CES)-cubes: a modular self-reconfigurable bipartite robotic system

Cem Unsal, Han Kiliccote, Pradeep K. Khosla

Proceedings Volume 3839, Sensor Fusion and Decentralized Control in Robotic Systems II; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.360346
Event: Photonics East '99, 1999, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

In this manuscript, we introduce I(CES)-Cubes, a class of 3D modular robotic system that is capable of reconfiguring itself in order to adapt to its environment. This is a bipartite system, i.e. a collection of (i) active elements capable of actuation, and (ii) passive elements acting as connectors between actuated elements. Active elements, called links, are 3-DOF manipulators that are capable of attaching/detaching themselves to/from the passive elements. The cubes can then be positioned and oriented using links, which are independent mechatronic elements. Self- reconfiguration property enables the system to performed locomotion tasks over difficult terrain. For example, the system would be capable of moving over obstacles and climbing stairs. These task are performed by positing and orienting cubes and links to form a 3D network with required shape and position. This paper describes the design of the passive and active elements, the attachment mechanics, and several reconfiguration scenarios. Specifics of the hardware implementation and result of experiments with current prototypes are also given.

Citation Download Citation

Cem Unsal, Han Kiliccote, and Pradeep K. Khosla "I(CES)-cubes: a modular self-reconfigurable bipartite robotic system", Proc. SPIE 3839, Sensor Fusion and Decentralized Control in Robotic Systems II, (26 August 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.360346

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