journal article·2025-03-07Open access

Three-Dimensional Path-Following with Articulated 6DoF Robot and ToF Sensors

Tymon F. Wawrzyniak, Ignacy D. Orłowski, Marek A. Galewski

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 6

Abstract

This paper presents an algorithm for 3D path-following using an articulated 6-Degree-of-Freedom (DoF) robot as well as experimental verification of the proposed approach. This research extends the classic line-following concept, typically applied in 2D spaces, into a 3D space. This is achieved by equipping a standard industrial robot with a path detection tool featuring six low-cost Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors. The primary objective is to enable the robot to follow a physically existing path defined in 3D space. The developed algorithm allows for step-by-step detection of the path’s orientation and calculation of consecutive positions and orientations of the detection tool that are necessary for the robot arm to follow the path. Experimental tests conducted using a Nachi MZ04D robot demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed solution.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Robotic Path Planning Algorithms · Robotics and Sensor-Based Localization · Optimization and Search Problems

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland

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