Control and locomotion of tensegrity robots through manipulation of the center of mass

Abstract

This paper provides the methodology used to simulate and control an icosahedral tensegrity structure augmented with movable masses attached to each bar to provide a means of locomotion. The center of mass of the system can be changed by moving the masses along the length of each of the bars that compose the structure. Moving the masses changes the moments created by gravitational force, allowing for the structure to roll. With this methodology in mind, a controller was created to move the masses to the desired locations to cause such a roll. As shown later in this paper, such a methodology, assuming the movable masses have the required mass, allows for full control of the system using a quasi-static controller created specifically for this system. This system has advantages over traditional tensegrity controllers because it retains its shape and is designed for high-shock scenarios.