Design and modeling of a novel robotic arm with multiple-segment joints

Abstract

This paper presents a novel miniature robotic arm with four degrees of freedom and one end-effector. The two joints of the robotic arm are multiple-segment, which consist of several serial plates with tiny cavities. Kinematic modeling of the robotic arm has been completed for subsequent implementation. With multiple-segment joints, the robotic arm gets smooth, linear, and flexible property. Simulations and experiments show that the robot can be used in abdominal single-port minimally invasive surgery for its unique operation capability.