A Geometric Approach to the Kinematics of the Canfield Joint

TL;DR

This paper presents a clear geometric derivation of the forward and inverse kinematics of the Canfield joint, a parallel robotic linkage used for pointing and tracking applications, including cases with leg failure.

Contribution

It provides a generalized and accessible geometric analysis of the Canfield joint's kinematics, including failure modes and practical engineering guidance.

Findings

Derived forward and inverse kinematics equations

Generalized analysis to include leg failure scenarios

Provided practical guidance for engineering applications

Abstract

This paper details an accessible geometric derivation of the forward and inverse kinematics of a parallel robotic linkage known as the Canfield joint, which can be used for pointing applications. The original purpose of the Canfield joint was to serve as a human wrist replacement, and it can be utilized for other purposes such as the precision pointing and tracking of antennas, telescopes, and thrusters. We build upon previous analyses, and generalize them to include the situation where one of the three legs freezes; the kinematics are also substantially generalized beyond failure modes, detailed within. The core of this work states and clarifies the assumptions necessary to analyze this type of parallel robotic linkage. Specific guidance is included for engineering use cases.