abstract |
A haptic interface was designed and developed for use in manipulation tasks. The mechanism consists of a closed kinematic chain. The force feedback mechanism consists of three degrees of spatial force feedback (X, Y and Z directions) and 1 degree of grasping/parting (increasing the distance between two or more points) force feedback. The three degrees of spatial force feedback are comprised of three independently actuated prismatic joints along orthogonal coordinate axes. The one degree of grasping/parting force feedback consists of a two thimbles with rotary motion for grasping and parting tasks using one's fingers. This device also provides a net of three additional passive joints for a total of 7 degrees-of-freedom. |