308 research outputs found
A hybrid dynamic model for bio-inspired soft robots - Application to a flapping-wing micro air vehicle.
International audienceThe paper deals with the dynamic modeling of bio-inspired robots with soft appendages such as flying insect-like or swimming fish-like robots. In order to model such soft systems, we propose to use the Mobile Multibody System framework introduced in [1][2][3]. In such a framework, the robot is considered as a tree-like structure of rigid bodies where the evolution of the position of the joints is governed by stress-strain laws or control torques. Based on the Newton-Euler formulation of these systems, we propose a new algorithm able to compute at each step of a time loop both the net and passive joint accelerations along with the control torques supplied by the motors. To illustrate, based on previous work [4], the proposed algorithm is applied to the simulation of the hovering flight of a soft flapping-wing insect-like robot (see the attached video)
A Hybrid Dynamic Model Of An Insect-Like MAV With Soft Wings
International audienceThis paper presents a hybrid dynamic model of a 3-D aerial insect-like robot. The soft-bodied insect wings modeling is based on a continuous version of the Newton-Euler dynamics where the leading edge is treated as a continuous Cosserat beam. These wings are connected to an insect's rigid thorax using a discrete recursive algorithm based on the Newton-Euler equations. Here we detail the inverse dynamic model algorithm. This version of the dynamic model solves the following two problems involved in any locomotion task: 1◦) it enables the net motion of a reference body to be computed from the known data of internal motions (strain fields); 2◦) it gives the internal torques required to impose these internal (strain fields) motions. The essential fluid effects have been taken into account using a simplified analytical hovering flight aerodynamic model. To facilitate the analysis of numerical results, a visualization tool is developed
How ornithopters can perch autonomously on a branch
Flapping wings are a bio-inspired method to produce lift and thrust in aerial
robots, leading to quiet and efficient motion. The advantages of this
technology are safety and maneuverability, and physical interaction with the
environment, humans, and animals. However, to enable substantial applications,
these robots must perch and land. Despite recent progress in the perching
field, flapping-wing vehicles, or ornithopters, are to this day unable to stop
their flight on a branch. In this paper, we present a novel method that defines
a process to reliably and autonomously land an ornithopter on a branch. This
method describes the joint operation of a flapping-flight controller, a
close-range correction system and a passive claw appendage. Flight is handled
by a triple pitch-yaw-altitude controller and integrated body electronics,
permitting perching at 3 m/s. The close-range correction system, with fast
optical branch sensing compensates for position misalignment when landing. This
is complemented by a passive bistable claw design can lock and hold 2 Nm of
torque, grasp within 25 ms and can re-open thanks to an integrated tendon
actuation. The perching method is supplemented by a four-step experimental
development process which optimizes for a successful design. We validate this
method with a 700 g ornithopter and demonstrate the first autonomous perching
flight of a flapping-wing robot on a branch, a result replicated with a second
robot. This work paves the way towards the application of flapping-wing robots
for long-range missions, bird observation, manipulation, and outdoor flight
Advances in Bio-Inspired Robots
This book covers three major topics, specifically Biomimetic Robot Design, Mechanical System Design from Bio-Inspiration, and Bio-Inspired Analysis on A Mechanical System. The Biomimetic Robot Design part introduces research on flexible jumping robots, snake robots, and small flying robots, while the Mechanical System Design from Bio-Inspiration part introduces Bioinspired Divide-and-Conquer Design Methodology, Modular Cable-Driven Human-Like Robotic Arm andWall-Climbing Robot. Finally, in the Bio-Inspired Analysis on A Mechanical System part, research contents on the control strategy of Surgical Assistant Robot, modeling of Underwater Thruster, and optimization of Humanoid Robot are introduced
Additive manufacturing:state of the art and potential for insect science
Additive Manufacturing has become an efficient tool to study insect-inspired biomimetic solutions. Indeed, it can build objects with intricate 3D-shapes and use materials with specific properties, such as soft materials. From biomaterials to biostructures or biosensors, Additive Manufacturing allows more possibilities in terms of design and functions. Reciprocally, insect-inspired technological solutions can be implemented to enhance Additive Manufacturing processes providing for example biocompatible structures that can successfully host living cells. We believe that, thanks to its continuous progress, Additive Manufacturing will play a growing role in the development of insect-inspired solutions.</p
Aquatic escape for micro-aerial vehicles
As our world is experiencing climate changes, we are in need of better monitoring technologies.
Most of our planet is covered with water and robots will need to move in aquatic environments.
A mobile robotic platform that possesses efficient locomotion and is capable of operating in
diverse scenarios would give us an advantage in data collection that can validate climate models,
emergency relief and experimental biological research. This field of application is the driving
vector of this robotics research which aims to understand, produce and demonstrate solutions
of aerial-aquatic autonomous vehicles.
However, small robots face major challenges in operating both in water and in air, as well as
transition between those fluids, mainly due to the difference of density of the media.
This thesis presents the developments of new aquatic locomotion strategies at small scales that
further enlarge the operational domain of conventional platforms. This comprises flight, shallow
water locomotion and the transition in-between. Their operating principles, manufacturing
methods and control methods are discussed and evaluated in detail.
I present multiple unique aerial-aquatic robots with various water escape mechanisms, spanning
over different scales. The five robotic platforms showcased share similarities that are compared.
The take-off methods are analysed carefully and the underlying physics principles put into light.
While all presented research fulfils a similar locomotion objective - i.e aerial and aquatic motion
- their relevance depends on the environmental conditions and supposed mission. As such, the
performance of each vehicle is discussed and characterised in real, relevant conditions.
A novel water-reactive fuel thruster is developed for impulsive take-off, allowing consecutive
and multiple jump-gliding from the water surface in rough conditions. At a smaller scale, the
escape of a milligram robotic bee is achieved. In addition, a new robot class is demonstrated,
that employs the same wings for flying as for passive surface sailing. This unique capability
allows the flexibility of flight to be combined with long-duration surface missions, enabling
autonomous prolonged aquatic monitoring.Open Acces
Bioinspired Soft Robotics: state of the art, challenges, and future directions
Purpose of Review: This review provides an overview of the state of the art
in bioinspired soft robotics with by examining advancements in actuation,
functionality, modeling, and control. Recent Findings: Recent research into
actuation methods, such as artificial muscles, have expanded the functionality
and potential use of bioinspired soft robots. Additionally, the application of
finite dimensional models has improved computational efficiency for modeling
soft continuum systems, and garnered interest as a basis for controller
formulation. Summary: Bioinspiration in the field of soft robotics has led to
diverse approaches to problems in a range of task spaces. In particular, new
capabilities in system simplification, miniaturization, and untethering have
each contributed to the field's growth. There is still significant room for
improvement in the streamlining of design and manufacturing for these systems,
as well as in their control
- …