Developing a Low-cost Rotary Series Elastic Actuator for Mechatronics Engineering Students

Abstract

Mechatronics engineering students is taught a multidisciplinary approach for problem solving and system integration in industrial field. Students have learnt relevant subjects, but some contents are mismatched with the industrial requirements. In motion control, students should handle the vibration and external force that may occur by using various feedback control techniques. This study proposes the development of low-cost rotary series elastic actuator as a learning tool for motion control or force control. It consists of driven unit, power transmission and elastic elements connected in series that can be designed, manufactured and control by students. Not only motion control but also force control can be archived. After design and test, student will gain practical skills, how related learned subjects and solving problems.