Algorithmic approach to geometric solution of generalized Paden–Kahan subproblem and its extension

Abstract

Kinematics as a science of geometry of motion describes motion by means of position, orientation, and their time derivatives. The focus of this article aims screw theory approach for the solution of inverse kinematics problem. The kinematic elements are mathematically assembled through screw theory by using only the base, tool, and workpiece coordinate systems—opposite to conventional Denavit–Hartenberg approach, where at least n + 1 coordinate frames are needed for a robot manipulator with n joints. The inverse kinematics solution in Denavit–Hartenberg convention is implicit. Instead, explicit solutions to inverse kinematics using the Paden–Kahan subproblems could be expressed. This article gives step-by-step application of geometric algorithm for the solution of all the cases of Paden–Kahan subproblem 2 and some extension of that subproblem based on subproblem 2. The algorithm described here covers all of the cases that can appear in the generalized subproblem 2 definition, which makes it applicable for multiple movement configurations. The extended subproblem is used to solve inverse kinematics of a manipulator that cannot be solved using only three basic Paden–Kahan subproblems, as they are originally formulated. Instead, here is provided solution for the case of three subsequent rotations, where last two axes are parallel and the first one does not lie in the same plane with neither of the other axes. Since the inverse kinematics problem may have no solution, unique solution, or many solutions, this article gives a thorough discussion about the necessary conditions for the existence and number of solutions.