a b s t r a c tIn this paper, a new adaptive scissor-hinge structure is introduced, which can be converted by means of actuators between a multitude of curvilinear arch-like shapes, where it can be stabilized and carry loads. The key point of this new structure is the proposed Modified Scissor-Like Element (M-SLE). With the development of this element, it becomes possible to change the geometry of the whole system without changing the dimensions of the struts or the span. The proposed scissor-hinge structure discussed here is planar, but it is also possible to combine structures in groups to create spatial systems. After outlining the differences of the proposed structure with existing designs, the dimensional properties of the M-SLE are introduced. Then, geometric principles and shape limitations of the whole structure are explained. Finally, structural analysis of the structure in different geometric configurations is performed, in order to discuss stiffness limitations associated with the advantage of increased mobility.

Purpose -In the industry, there is always a demand to shorten the task completion durations to maximize the efficiency of the operation. This work focuses on making use of a special type of kinematic redundancy, macro-micro manipulation, to minimize the task completion duration. The purpose of this paper is to develop the most convenient trajectory planner to be integrated with industrial computerized numerical control (CNC) systems to resolve kinematic redundancy for task duration minimization. Design/methodology/approach -A special type of kinematic redundancy is devised by using two kinematically different mechanisms that have different advantages, which are named as macro and micro mechanisms. In this case, the control design including the trajectory planning should be devised taking into account the distinct advantages of both mechanisms. A new trajectory planning algorithm is designed and used for the constructed planar laser-cutting machine, and some benchmark pieces are cut. Findings -Offline method has practical limitations for employment in a real case scenario such as assuming infinite jerk limits for each axis motion. This limitation was removed by using an online trajectory generation technique. Experimental test results indicate that the online trajectory planning technique developed for the macro-micro mechanism to shorten the task duration was successful. Practical implications -Although the new trajectory planning algorithm is implemented for a laser-cutting machine, it can also be used for other manufacturing systems that require higher acceleration and accuracy levels than the conventional machines. The new algorithm is compatible with the commercially available CNC systems. Originality/value -In this work, a new approach to reducing the task duration for planar machining operations was introduced by making use of macro-micro manipulation concept. The core novelty of the work is devising trajectory planning algorithms to get the most efficiency in terms of acceleration limits from a macro-micro manipulation while making these algorithms deployable to most of the CNC systems.

The 3-RRS parallel manipulator presented in this study comprises of parallel revolute joint axes in each leg. The manipulator is composed of a base and a moving platform which are in the shape of equilateral triangles. Moving platform has two rotational and one translational degrees-of-freedom. This study formulates the forward and inverse kinematics of the parallel manipulator. A 16 th order polynomial in terms of one of the passive joint variables is obtained for the forward kinematic analysis. Numerical results and the corresponding pose of the manipulator for inverse and forward kinematics are presented.

Deployable structures are mobile assemblies which do not aim motion but to attain different configurations depending on the service requirements. These structures are widely used in space applications due to storage limitations of the launch vehicles. The large diversity of design alternatives should be evaluated in design of deployable parts of spacecrafts. This study aims to present design alternatives of antennas, masts and solar panels of space devices. Also use of spatial linkages in deployable structure designs is discussed.

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