Prototype A
Date:
April 2023
Showcase:
Linz, AUSTRIA
Sep 2023
Technically Touchable series embodies a profound exploration into the realms of touch and haptic communication, particularly within the dynamic interplay between humans and robots. Delving into the nuanced intricacies of tactile experiences, our research has dissected various forms of touch, ultimately focusing on achieving effective grasp-like motions in robotic interactions.
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Through numerous experiments with adaptive mechanisms, we have crafted a synthesis of rigid links, soft joints, and tendon cables. This system epitomizes both adaptability and efficiency, requiring only a singular force for operation, and also ensures stability—a notable improvement over fully soft mechanisms.
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Based on this foundation, Prototype A has been designed and built, through deep research on the soft joints to find the right balance of hardness and shape. Augmented with a precision-engineered pulley system, this prototype not only amplifies adaptability but also streamlines actuation, simplifying the process to a single force input. With Prototype A, we've created a system capable of seamlessly executing highly adaptive grasping motions and facilitating multifaceted interactions with its environment.
Multiple arms also meant multiple points of force to control the mechanism. In this case, the pulley system also allowed us to control the arms in groups of 2, 4 or 8, which has the potential to develop a robotic dance or melody.
video of Prototype A