Synthesis, dynamic modeling, prototyping and control of a handheld rotational inertia generator.

Abstract

This paper explores the design and experimental validation of a three-degree-of-freedom variable inertia generator. An inertia generator is a handheld haptic device that renders a prescribed inertia. In the mechanism proposed in this paper, three-dimensional torque feedback is achieved by accelerating three pairs of flywheels mounted on orthogonal axes. While the primary objective of this work is to design an inertia generator, this study also includes developing other functionalities for the device that exploit its torque generation capabilities. These include the ability to generate a predefined torque profile and to simulate a viscous environment through damping, which are both utilized to assess the device's performance. The device proved to accurately render the necessary torques for every functionality while presenting some limitations for damping and rendering an inertia smaller than the device's inherent inertia.