Singularity-free joint actuation in omnidirectional mobile platforms with powered offset caster wheels

Abstract

This paper presents the analysis of singularity and motion capability of a mobile platform articulated by offset powered caster wheels. Specifically, it presents the analysis of the equations of motion resulting in the sufficient and necessary actuation condition to yield a workspace that is entirely free of singular configurations. This paper shows that powering both the steer and drive joints on two sets of offset caster wheels in a mobile platform guarantees a singularity-free condition throughout the entire workspace. Analysis and discussion on equations of motions that lead to this result are presented. Copyright © 2008 by ASME.