RoboTrikke: Design, Modeling and Experimentation With a Robotic Trikke

Abstract

In this paper we present new experimental results for a novel underactuated system called the ROBOTRIKKE. The ROBOTRIKKE is a three-wheeled system that can be driven by periodic motion of its front steering wheel combined with rocking side-to-side motion of a robotic rider. We present two new generations of the ROBOTRIKKE including a ABS model made using Shape Deposition Manufacturing (SDM). We present modeling, simulation and experimental results for gait generation for the ROBOTRIKKE using a combination of periodic inputs for the steering axis and a rider. We show how a rocking motion (as used by human riders) can be used to improve the performance of the ROBOTRIKKE.