Gait Transitions in Artificial Non-standard Snake-Like Locomotion Systems Using Adaptive Control

This chapter contributes to the modeling, analysis and control of terrestrial artificial locomotion systems. Inspired by previous models, we set up an unconventional model for a snake-like locomotion systems in form of a chain of visco-elastically interconnected mass points in a plane with passive joints, but – in contrast to literature – active links (time-varying link-length) and rotatable skids to change the movement direction and to avoid obstacles. We investigate this model in a dynamical way and focus on controlling these link lengths to achieve a global movement, steered by the skids. From dynamics, the actuator forces have to adjust the prescribed link length for the locomotion. Since it is impossible to determine the necessary actuator forces a-priori, we apply an adaptive lambda-tracking controller to enable the system to adjust these force outputs on-line on its own. Prescribed motion patterns, i.e. specific gaits, are required to guarantee a controlled movement that differ in the number of resting mass points, the load of actuators and spikes, and the lateral forces of the skids. In contrast to literature, the investigated system of n = 10 mass points exhibit a large variety of possible gaits. To determine the most advantageous gaits, numerical investigations are performed and a weighting function offers a decision of best possible gaits. Using these gaits, a gait transition algorithm, which autonomously changes velocity and number of resting mass points depending on the spike, actuator and lateral skid force load, is presented and tested in numerical simulations.