New robot mechanisms for new robot capabilities

The authors note a need to overcome the deficiencies inherent in conventional manipulator mechanisms. Joint torque controllability, optimal dynamic characteristics, motion redundancy, and fine manipulation ability are among the basic characteristics that would be desirable attributes of advanced robot systems. The paper discusses the limitations of current robot technology and describes the ongoing effort at Stanford University for the development of high-performance force-controlled robot systems to provide the advanced capabilities needed for carrying out dextrous manipulation tasks.<
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