Abstract: This application describes multi-path cooling arrangements for robotic systems. For example, a robotic system can include a heat generating component positioned within a base that supports one or more articulating links. The heat generating component can be supported on a thermally conductive bracket within the base. The robotic system can include a first thermally conductive path configured to dissipate heat from the heat generating component. The first thermally conductive path can include the bracket and a first heatsink connected to the bracket. The robotic system can also include a second thermally conductive path configured to dissipate heat from the heat generating component. The second thermally conductive path can include the bracket, a thermal pad positioned on the bracket, and a second heatsink positioned on a second side of the base.

Abstract: This application describes multi-stage stop devices for robotic arms. During a first stage, rotational motion of a link of a robotic arm compresses a compressible member of the multi-stage stop device to absorb and dissipate at least some of the force generated by the collision. A second stage provides a hard stop the stops any further rotation. The multi-stage stop devices described herein can include a collapsing pin configured to compress a compressible member during the first stage. After the pin has collapsed a rigid sidewall provides a hard stop preventing further rotation during the second stage.

Abstract: This application describes multi-stage stop devices for robotic arms. During a first stage, rotational motion of a link of a robotic arm compresses a compressible member of the multi-stage stop device to absorb and dissipate at least some of the force generated by the collision. A second stage provides a hard stop the stops any further rotation. The multi-stage stop devices described herein can include a collapsing pin configured to compress a compressible member during the first stage. After the pin has collapsed a rigid sidewall provides a hard stop preventing further rotation during the second stage.

Abstract: This application describes multi-path cooling arrangements for robotic systems. For example, a robotic system can include a heat generating component positioned within abase that supports one or more articulating links. The heat generating component can be supported on a thermally conductive bracket within the base. The robotic system can include a first thermally conductive path configured to dissipate heat from the heat generating component. The first thermally conductive path can include the bracket and a first heatsink connected to the bracket. The robotic system can also include a second thermally conductive path configured to dissipate heat from the heat generating component. The second thermally conductive path can include the bracket, a thermal pad positioned on the bracket, and a second heatsink positioned on a second side of the base.

Abstract: The invention is directed to controlling a hydraulic actuation system having at least one degree of freedom, a prime mover, at least one actuation module and a controller, with each actuation module including: an over-center variable displacement pump having a power input connection configured to power the pump from the prime mover and a displacement varying input for varying the displacement of the pump; a displacement varying actuator configured to modulate the displacement varying input of the pump; an output actuator in direct communication with the pump, the output actuator configured to drive a corresponding degree of freedom; and at least one sensor establishing a feedback measurement that represents a force or motion of the output actuator. Based on a value of each feedback measurement, the force or motion of the output actuator is regulated by controlling the prime mover and the displacement actuator for the output actuator.

Abstract: The invention is directed to controlling a hydraulic actuation system having at least one degree of freedom, a prime mover, at least one actuation module and a controller, with each actuation module including: an over-center variable displacement pump having a power input connection configured to power the pump from the prime mover and a displacement varying input for varying the displacement of the pump; a displacement varying actuator configured to modulate the displacement varying input of the pump; an output actuator in direct communication with the pump, the output actuator configured to drive a corresponding degree of freedom; and at least one sensor establishing a feedback measurement that represents a force or motion of the output actuator. Based on a value of each feedback measurement, the force or motion of the output actuator is regulated by controlling the prime mover and the displacement actuator for the output actuator.