http://scitation.aip.org/ Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005332 Jing-Shan Zhao, Jian-Yi Wang, Fulei Chu, Zhi-Jing Feng, and Jian S. Dai<br/> This paper proposes a foldable stair that is easily deployed for use and folded for storage. It consists of a number of identical deployable scissor-like elements which form the staircases when expanded. In addition to use, the folded stair can be used for hanging clothes and acting as a decoration. ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 014502 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005331 James J. Guzek, Conrad Petersen, Stephane Constantin, and Hod Lipson<br/> Published methods of linear actuation via string transmission are discussed. A novel twisting string actuator design named Mini Twist is introduced. The design and components of the Mini Twist are thoroughly explained, and a theoretical model for its transmission method is discussed. The experimenta ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 014501 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005336 Semaan Amine, Mehdi Tale Masouleh, Stephane Caro, Philippe Wenger, and Clement Gosselin<br/> This paper deals with the singularity analysis of parallel manipulators with identical limb structures performing Schonflies motions, namely, three independent translations and one rotation about an axis of fixed direction (3T1R). Eleven architectures obtained from a recent type synthesis of such ma ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011011 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005335 Samuel Chen and Marc Arsenault<br/> Tensegrity mechanisms are interesting candidates for high-acceleration robotic applications since their use of cables allows for a reduction in the weight and inertia of their mobile parts. In this work, a planar two-degree-of-freedom translational tensegrity mechanism that could be used for pick an ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011010 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005334 Francesco Mazzini and Steven Dubowsky<br/> This research investigates using a manipulator to tactilely explore objects and environments when significant backlash affects its joint's positions. A typical application is the exploration of rough environments, such as oil wells, where the harsh conditions dictate the use of tactile exploration. ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011009 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005333 Michel Coste<br/> Avoiding singularities in the workspace of a parallel robot is an important issue. The case of 3-RPR planar robots is an important subject of theoretical studies. We study the singularities of planar 3-RPR robots by using a new parameterization of the singular locus in a modified workspace. This app ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011008 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005530 David A. Perkins and Andrew P. Murray<br/> Given a single degree of freedom mechanism, a moving reference frame attached to any link has a motion that can be described with a single parameter. A point relative to this moving frame is sought such that it either continually increases or decreases in distance from a point in the fixed frame ove ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011007 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005524 Andreas Muller<br/> Whether the singularities of a kinematic mapping constitute smoothmanifolds is an important question with significance to mechanism design and robot control. It is thus obvious to ask if this is generically so. In a preceding paper, two kinematically meaningful genericity concepts have been introduc ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011006 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005531 Youngjin Moon, Carl D. Crane, III, and Rodney G. Roberts<br/> This paper presents an analysis of a planar tensegrity-based mechanism. In this study, a moving body is joined to ground by four compliant leg connectors. Each leg connector is comprised of a spring in series with an adjustable length piston. Two problems are solved in this paper. In the first, the ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011004 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005527 Giorgio Figliolini, Marco Conte, and Pierluigi Rea<br/> This paper deals with the formulation and validation of a comprehensive algebraic algorithm for the kinematic analysis of slider-crank/rocker mechanisms, which is based on the use of geometric loci, as the fixed and moving centrodes, along with their evolutes, the cubic of stationary curvature and t ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011003 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005523 H. P. Jawale and H. T. Thorat<br/> Closed chain mechanisms are used as robotic manipulators with special features. A planar two-DOF closed loop mechanism provides desired position of an end effecter in a confined workspace with two input motions. Position of end effecter depends on various factors including joint clearance. Positiona ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011002 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012. http://link.aip.org/link/doi/10.1115/1.4005526 Ting-Li Yang and Dong-Jin Sun<br/> Based on the position and orientation characteristic (POC) set and the POC equations for serial mechanisms and parallel mechanisms proposed by authors, this paper presents a novel general degree of freedom (DOF) formula which is totally different from approaches based on the screw theory and the dis ... [J. Mechanisms Robotics 4, 011001 (2012)] published Fri Feb 3, 2012.