Biologically inspired self-reconfigurable hexapod with adaptive locomotion

This paper describes the implementation of biologically inspired self-reconfigurable control system for a multivariable hexapod robot having gait switching ability. It focuses on the control; based on forward and inverse kinematics for systematic locomotion and navigation of robot. Electronic system have the capabilities to measure physical variables. Force and pressure sensors are mounted on each end of the leg to provide the necessary sense of touch. The paper also explains the reconfiguration ability of the robot in case of any damage to its leg and its capacity to change the walking pattern according to the malfunction caused. The system implementation using multiple microcontrollers in master-slave configuration to produce and control 18 DOF is also shown in the paper.