Synthetic Fiber Capstan Drives for Highly Efficient, Torque Controlled, Robotic Applications

Journal Article · Thu Jan 05 04:00:00 UTC 2017 · IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/LRA.2016.2646259 · OSTI ID:1340266

Mazumdar, Anirban ^[1]; Spencer, Steven James ^[2]; Hobart, Clinton ^[2]; Dabling, Jeffrey ^[2]; Blada, Timothy ^[2]; Dullea, Kevin ^[2]; Kuehl, Michael ^[2]; Buerger, Stephen P. ^[2]

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1. Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States). High Consequence Automation and Robotics
2. Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States). High Consequence Automation and Robotics

Here this paper describes the design and performance of a synthetic rope on sheave drive system. This system uses synthetic ropes instead of steel cables to achieve low weight and a compact form factor. We demonstrate how this system is capable of 28-Hz torque control bandwidth, 95% efficiency, and quiet operation, making it ideal for use on legged robots and other dynamic physically interactive systems. Component geometry and tailored maintenance procedures are used to achieve high endurance. Endurance tests based on walking data predict that the ropes will survive roughly 247,000 cycles when used on large (90 kg), fully actuated bipedal robot systems. The drive systems have been incorporated into two novel bipedal robots capable of three-dimensional unsupported walking. Robot data illustrate effective torque tracking and nearly silent operation. Finally, comparisons with alternative transmission designs illustrate the size, weight, and endurance advantages of using this type of synthetic rope drive system.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); DARPA
• Grant/Contract Number: AC04-94AL85000
• OSTI ID: 1340266
• Report Number(s): SAND2016-12664J; 649951
• Journal Information: IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters, Journal Name: IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 2; ISSN 2377-3774
• Publisher: IEEECopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English