Parameter Optimization of Optical Six-Axis Force/Torque Sensor for Legged Robots

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel non-contact six-axis force/torque sensor using photocouplers, optimized for compactness and robustness in legged robots, with validated performance through extensive testing.

Contribution

Introduces a new photocoupler-based sensor design and an optimization methodology for parameters, improving robustness, size, and cost-effectiveness for legged robot applications.

Findings

Sensor achieves high sensitivity and accuracy in force measurement.

Validated through extensive testing and robot integration.

Design reduces damage risk and manufacturing complexity.

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel six-axis force/torque sensor tailored for compact and lightweight legged robots. Unlike traditional strain gauge-based sensors, the proposed non-contact design employs photocouplers, enhancing resistance to physical impacts and reducing damage risk. This approach simplifies manufacturing, lowers costs, and meets the demands of legged robots by combining small size, light weight, and a wide force measurement range. A methodology for optimizing sensor parameters is also presented, focusing on maximizing sensitivity and minimizing error. Precise modeling and analysis of objective functions enabled the derivation of optimal design parameters. The sensor's performance was validated through extensive testing and integration into quadruped robots, demonstrating alignment with theoretical modeling. The sensor's precise measurement capabilities make it suitable for diverse robotic environments, particularly in analyzing interactions between robot feet and the ground. This innovation addresses existing sensor limitations while contributing to advancements in robotics and sensor technology, paving the way for future applications in robotic systems.