Computing the Configuration Space for Tracing Paths Between Assembly Modes

Abstract

In this paper, the authors present a general methodology for computing the configuration space for three-degree-of-freedom parallel manipulators so that the relation between input and output variables can be easily assessed. Making use of an entity called the reduced configuration space, all solutions of the direct kinematic problem in parallel manipulators are solved. The graphical representation of this entity enables the location of the direct kinematic solutions to be analyzed so as to make use of a wider operational workspace by means of path planning. A descriptive study is presented regarding the diverse possible paths that allow changing between direct kinematic solutions, thus, enlarging the manipulator’s range of motion.