Spherical Robot
Spherical robots, characterized by their omnidirectional mobility and protective shell, are a focus of robotics research driven by applications in diverse fields like minimally invasive surgery and planetary exploration. Current research emphasizes developing robust control algorithms, including model predictive control (MPC) and sliding mode control (SMC), to address challenges such as wobble minimization, accurate trajectory tracking across varied terrains, and effective human-robot interaction, often employing admittance control schemes for intuitive hands-free operation. These advancements are improving the precision, safety, and usability of spherical robots, expanding their potential for both scientific investigation and practical deployment in challenging environments.
Papers
An Interactive Hands-Free Controller for a Riding Ballbot to Enable Simple Shared Control Tasks
Chenzhang Xiao, Seung Yun Song, Yu Chen, Mahshid Mansouri, Joao Ramos, William R. Norris, Elizabeth T. Hsiao-Wecksler
Exploiting Physical Human-Robot Interaction to Provide a Unique Rolling Experience with a Riding Ballbot
Chenzhang Xiao, Seung Yun Song, Yu Chen, Mahshid Mansouri, João Ramos, Adam W. Bleakney, William R. Norris, Elizabeth T. Hsiao-Wecksler