Reconfiguration analysis of a 4-RUU parallel manipulator

This paper deals with the characterization of the operation modes of the 4-RUU parallel manipulator with an algebraic approach, namely the Study's kinematic mapping of the Euclidean group SE(3). As the 4-RUU parallel manipulator is an over-constrained manipulator, it can be decomposed into two 2-RUU parallel manipulators. The manipulators are described by a set of constraint equations and the primary decomposition is computed. By combining the results of primary decomposition from two 2-RUU parallel manipulators, it reveals that the 4-RUU parallel manipulator has two Schönflies modes (4-dof) and one lower dimension operation mode (2-dof). The singularity conditions are obtained by deriving the determinant of the Jacobian matrix of the constraint equations with respect to the Study parameters in each operation mode. It is shown that there exist singular configurations in which the manipulators may switch from one operation mode to another operation mode. All the singular configurations are mapped onto the joint space, i.e., the actuated joint angles, and are geometrically interpreted. Eventually, the 4-RUU parallel manipulator may switch from the 1st Schönflies mode to the 2nd Schönflies mode, or vice versa, via the 2-dof third mode that contains self-motions. •The 4-RUU PM is a Schönflies motion generator with four identical limb structures and revolute actuators.•Derivation of the constraint equations of the 4-RUU PM by using the Study kinematic mapping.•Operation mode analysis of the 4-RUU PM by decomposing it into two iso-constrained 2-RUU PM.•Analysis of singularities, self-motions, and operation mode changing of the 4-RUU PM and 2-RUU PM.