I won't go too deep into the project, but basically I am trying to build an exoskeleton. I'm starting with the elbow joint, but I'm not sure which type of motor I should use and how strong they should be. I was thinking of using a stepper motor + potentiometer since they are cheap and don't have a gearbox like typical servo motors. My question is, is it possible to control the amount of resistance(physical) when forcing the motor's movement while it's powered? This could be for scenarios like lifting a heavy object. Also, how strong should the motor be to completely stop movement past a certain point, as if the arm is colliding with a wall?
Only You can find out, define that.
Why? There are servo motors without gearbox as well as DC motors. Why's a gearbox frightening You?
Yes but it calls for sensors measuring the force.
Only You can define the force needed.
Colliding with a wall... Sensors are needed or motor overload detectors....
I was avoiding geared servos because 1. they are hard to turn even when powered off and 2. the gears might get damaged if it's forced to turn while being powered. I do not need fast speeds, just enough durability and torque. To my knowledge, stepper motors generally have higher static torque. Right? I was just wondering if they could be used like racing sim wheels, but in the elbow joint instead.
Lift some weights with your arm and see what torque is therefore needed at your elbow - that will spec any motor you have ( -lifting 20kg …100 Nm?)
You need to look for specific actuators for the task - a stalled normal motor for example will quickly over heat .
Beware that a powerful actuator and a code error might break your arm
This topic was automatically closed 180 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.