The use of robots with wheels to navigate different environments has become increasingly popular due to their ability to travel longer distances with fewer risks. However, the inability of many wheeled robots to overcome steps limits their real-world application. This limitation increases the risk of robots getting stuck on a step and failing to complete their missions.
Researchers at the Kyushu Institute of Technology have developed a new type of robot that eliminates rims from wheels, allowing for a walking-like locomotion instead of conventional rolling motion. This unique design enables the robot to navigate environments with steps or uneven terrains with more ease and adaptability. The elastic, telescopic legs of the robot exhibit highly complex dynamics and a walking-like motion, making it a promising solution for overcoming the limitation faced by traditional wheeled robots.
The research team first developed a three-dimensional model of the rimless wheel robot using computer-aided design (CAD) software. They then ran simulations to determine the optimal elasticity for the legs to reliably overcome steps. Following this, a prototype of the robot was fabricated and tested in real-world experiments to evaluate its performance. The results of the experiments were promising, as the robot was able to overcome a 0.03m step quickly and without losing balance.
In their future studies, the researchers plan to continue testing the robot while focusing on improving its control and reducing power consumption. They also aim to adapt the design to create a one-wheeled robot that can smoothly move in confined spaces. The development of rimless wheel-based robots could inspire other roboticists to explore innovative designs, leading to the creation of more versatile wheeled robots suitable for a wide range of applications.
The introduction of rimless wheel-based robots represents a significant advancement in the field of robotics. By addressing the limitation of traditional wheeled robots in overcoming steps, these robots offer a promising solution for navigating various indoor and outdoor environments. The research conducted by the team at the Kyushu Institute of Technology opens up new possibilities for the development of innovative robotic designs that could revolutionize the way robots move and interact with their surroundings.
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