Life-Size Haptic Device with Advanced Actuator-Drive Concept Providing Redundant

Barrett Technology, Inc. proposes to design and build a lightweight high-performance manipulator for micro-gravity muscle/bone strengthening and trauma rehabilitation with data quantification. The device will be used on board months-long interplanetary space-exploration missions. The enabling technology is based on the novel concept presented confidentially in this proposal. If Phase I demonstrates feasibility, then Phase II will support the design of such a versatile device, featuring: (1) human-centric operation; (2) virtual energetic sports environments; and (3) a rich stream of quantification data for body motion trajectories, force/torque vectors along the trajectories, and power/energy profiles. Unlike any manipulator available today, the proposed device will achieve the normally incompatible requirements of: (1) human-level strength and (2) reach but also (3) precise controllability and (4) true fail-safe operation - all in a (5) lightweight package. Even Barrett's high-performance WAM¿ arm, which is haptic and has higher force capability than the popular Phantom (sold by Barrett's licensee, Sensable Technologies) cannot meet this set of requirements without a technology breakthrough as significant as the innovation presented within this proposal.