MECHATRONICAL DESIGN OF A HUMANOID ROBOT IN AN EDUCATIONAL PROJECT

Abstract

The development of a Humanoid Robot within the scope of the collaborative research centre 588 has the objective to create a machine that closely cooperates with humans. This leads to requirements such as low weight, small moving parts (no potential danger for persons in case of collision) as well as appearance, motion space and work movements following the human example. One reason for the last point is the requirement for the robot to operate in surroundings designed for humans. Another aspect is the acceptance by technologically unskilled users, which is likely to be higher if the robot has a humanoid shape and calculable movements. A Humanoid Robot is a highly complex mechatronical system, as the functional requirement can be achieved only by the interaction of mechanical components with extensive sensor technology, state-of-the-art actuators and highly developed software. The development of mechatronical products is a major field of research in our institute.