Biologically inspired design of a parallel actuated humanoid robot

This paper presents the comparison for the role of bi-articular and mono-articular actuators in human and bipedal robot legs, in particular the hip and knee joint, for driving the design of a humanoid robot with inspirations from the biological system. The various constraints driving the design of both systems are also compared. Additional factors particular to robotic system are identified and incorporated in the design process. To do this, a dynamic simulation is used to determine loading conditions and the forces and power produced by each actuator under various arrangements. It is shown that while the design principles of humans and humanoids are similar, other constraints ensure that robots are still merely inspired by humans, and not direct copies. A simple design methodology that captures the complexity and constraints of such a system in this paper is proposed. Finally, a full-size humanoid robot that demonstrates the newfound principle is highlighted.