A robotic manipulator for applying 3-directional force

A Robotic Manipulator for Applying 3-directional Force

Motivation

Usually, push-pull gauges or weight-pulley-based system is used for calibrating or evaluating the performance of a sensor. It is hard to apply forces in different directions using these systems. Also, the data collection is manual which can create errors.


This robotic manipulator can apply force in three-axis simultaneously, and this system can be controlled and data can be collected automatically using a computer. 

Description

Consists of three 500 mm aluminum C-Beam linear actuators with lead screw-mounted gantry carts (OPENBUILDS)


Each linear actuator is powered by a NEMA-23 stepper motor


A 3d printed end-effector is used to apply force to the desired place


Three SingleTact force sensors are used to measure how much force is applied in three directions

The entire setup is controlled by a visual basic program

** This work has been submitted to a journal. Details of this project with figures will be posted after it will be published.