1,721,174 research outputs found

    Natural interface for interactive virtual assembly in augmented reality using Leap Motion Controller

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    In this paper, an augmented reality methodology based on the use of a low-invasiveness hand tracking device is presented. The developed methodology, allows the user to be visually immersed into an augmented scene by means of a head-mounted display. He can interact with the virtual objects without any wearable sensor using the Leap Motion Controller that is able to acquire the pose of each finger of both hands by optical triangulation without markers. In this way, the interaction between the user and the scene can be considered “natural”. The interaction between hands and objects and the assembling among objects is achieved by the modification of the Object Active Feature–Grasping Active Feature methodology, based on the use of algebraic kinematic constraint equations. The approach has been adapted to take into account the specific information coming from the tracking device. An example of implementation is reported and an experimental usability study discussed

    Classic Matrix Decompositions in Clifford Algebra with Applications to Kinematic Analysis

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    One of the advantages of dual algebra is the capability to express in elegant and compact notation operations and transformations on geometric algebra objects. This capability proved to be useful in different areas of engineering such as kinematics, dynamics, robot vision and computer graphics. This paper addresses the problem of extending the QR, SVD and LU matrix decompositions to the field of dual numbers. The availability of these new computational tools should give the possibility of a wider use of Clifford algebra in engineering. The results herein presented are based on the solution of Sylvester type of linear matrix equations. The need of new variable types or overload operators is avoided. Only standard linear algebra library routines are required. Although they have a general validity, the algorithms herein presented are applied to screw motion estimation from body points coordinates and to kinematic synthesis of the function generator RCCC spatial linkage. For a ready use of the matrix algorithms herein proposed, MATLAB source code is listed in the Appendix

    Accuracy in fingertip tracking using Leap Motion Controller for interactive virtual applications

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    The paper deals with an experimental assessment of the Leap Motion Controller®. This device is able to track the user’s hands in a real environment. Due to lowinvasiveness and easiness of use, it is promising for the integration in virtual or augmented reality, research and entertainment scenarios. The assessment is performed in a real context using volunteers that were asked to point with the fingertips to a set of predefined locations in space. A specific test rig has been designed and built. It is comprised of a transparent plate supported by adjustable pillars and mounted over the Leap. The data are processed to assess the errors in tracking the five fingertips of the right hand. Results show that the accuracy and precision of the Leap is suitable for robust tracking of the user’s hand. The results also unveil that there are preferable zones in which the tracking performance is better

    Kinematics and Enumeration of Combined Harmonic Drive Gearing

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    The combined harmonic drive (HD) gearing is a class of differential gears composed of traditional and HD gears. In this paper, the kinematic analysis and enumeration of these less known gear devices are discussed. In particular, a new graph-based method of kinematic analysis has been developed. In order to stimulate the diffusion and applications of combined HD gearing, an atlas of structurally nonisomorphic gear trains has been compiled

    Modellazione interattiva integrando realtà aumentata, morphing geometrico e interfacce aptiche

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    L’articolo discute i principali risultati del progetto di ricerca RBF4ARTIST. L’obiettivo del progetto è lo studio e l’implementazione di una metodologia per permettere la modifica interattiva delle forme geometriche con funzionalità. Tale metodologia combina le potenzialità della realtà aumentata, di efficienti algoritmi di deformazione geometrica e l’uso di interfacce aptiche a ritorno di forza. La metodologia può essere impiegata per affrontare la modifica di geometrie in problemi di ingegneria come la prototipazione virtuale e l’ottimizzazione. Lo strumento permette al progettista di modificare interattivamente delle geometrie esistenti mediante il contatto con le relative rappresentazioni virtuali, potendo sentire un feedback tattile. Il cuore della metodologia si basa sull’impiego di un modellatore basato sulle radial basis functions (RBF) ottimizzato per funzionare in tempo reale. Tali algoritmi numerici sono integrati in un ambiente di realtà aumentata che ne conferisce il carattere realistico e immersivo e sono coadiuvati dall’uso di un dispositivo aptico che permette l’interazione tattile

    An improved three-dimensional multibody model of the human spine for vibrational investigations

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    In this paper, a three dimensional numerical model of the human spine, specialized for vibrational investigations, is presented. The model has been built using multibody dynamics techniques and includes the entire set of vertebrae, considered as rigid bodies. The interaction between vertebrae has been simulated using six component bushings, without the need of any kinematic constraint. This methodology allows a very relevant flexibility, and the fully three-dimensional deformation modes of the spine may be studied. The investigation has been focused on the assessment of the vibration modes and the computation of the transmissibility functions buttocks-to-head for acceleration inputs along three main directions. It has been observed that the first torsional modes with a relevant mass participation factors are present at very low frequencies. Most of the relevant modes, which involve the deformation of the spine with relevant participation factor, are within the range 0÷5 Hz. These peaks are also visible in the transmissibility functions. Results have been also compared to those of other experimental and numerical studies

    Elasto-kinematic comparison of flexure hinges undergoing large displacement

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    The design of precision compliant mechanisms requires the assessment of the elasto-kinematic characteristics of the flexure hinges connecting bulky parts. Due to geometrical nonlinearities, a comprehensive analysis requires the functional properties to be evaluated within the feasible range of relative displacement. This investigation proposes the use of kinematic invariants to characterize the main features of a compliant mechanism. In particular, this paper offers the comparison of five common flexure hinges in terms of the relative motion kinematic invariants. By using the dynamic spline formulation, for each hinge typology, a flexible multibody model is developed to obtain the fixed and moving centrodes and the diameter of the inflection circle of the relative motion. In order to fully characterize the elasto-kinematic behaviour, the simulative models are also used to compute the equivalent stiffness as a function of the rotation angle. The results show that the differences among the various types of hinges is relevant in terms of both kinematic and compliance characteristics. The findings and the methodology herein outlined are new tools for the optimal design and synthesis of flexure joints
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