Project

Spun further: Robospider 2.0

Based on his first spider project, a linkage-based robotic spider, Christopher Kral developed a second spider in the DESSK research group - this time using servomotors and with the aim of moving each of the eight legs independently. This allows the spider not only to walk, but also to stand up and sit down, which means it can be used as a harvesting or auxiliary robot, for example.

The limits of the coupling-based robot spider lay in its mobility and off-road capability: steps, steeper levels or uneven surfaces on the path were sometimes limiting obstacles. This led to the desire to further develop the robo-spider.

In order to get the most out of his second spider, Christopher Kral used the technology of end-to-end use of the CAx chain in virtual product development, which had already been applied in practice several times during his studies. A virtual model was created based on an initial physical sketch. This makes it possible to bring the spider to life virtually and test its possibilities even before the actual spider is manufactured. Christopher Kral also worked with real-time, virtual models of his spider during subsequent operation to ensure its safe operation.
 

The technical details of the Robospider 2.0:

• 16 servomotors for eight legs.
• Two servomotors for two sensors (infrared and ultrasound-based).
• The legs can be programmed independently of each other, allowing the gait and height to be influenced and obstacles to be overcome.
• Nine microcontrollers (one Arduino MEGA as the main processor and a separate controller for each leg).
• A position sensor for horizontal alignment of the spider.
• A 12.6 V LiPo battery as a power source.

Meet the spider - and make something of your own

Are you interested in seeing both spiders in real life? Get in touch with Christopher Kral and find out how you can implement your own project while studying Mechanical Engineering at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences!