Design and Motion Analysis of a Reconfigurable Pendulum-Based Rolling Disk Robot with Magnetic Coupling

Abstract

Reconfigurable robots are at the forefront of robotics innovation due to their unmatched versatility and adaptability in addressing various tasks through collaborative operations. This paper explores the design and implementation of a novel pendulum-based magnetic coupling system within a reconfigurable disk robot. Diverging from traditional designs, this system emphasizes enhancing coupling strength while maintaining the compactness of the outer shell. We employ parametric optimization techniques, including magnetic array simulations, to improve coupling performance. Additionally, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of the rolling robot's motion to assess its operational effectiveness in the coupling mechanism. This examination reveals intriguing new motion patterns driven by frictional and sliding effects between the rolling disk modules and the ground. Furthermore, the new setup introduces a novel problem in the area of nonprehensile manipulation.