Design of a one-motor tree-climbing robot

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel tree-climbing robot called O-M-Climber, which is driven by only one motor. The climbing principle imitates the bionic climbing approach. Main features include a two-shaft linkage mechanism connected with several cam-slider devices to perform alternating movement of the claws. The claws maintain the robot on the tree, imitating the structure of climbing irons. This novel design provides a specific mechanical structure that enables the climbing motion with minimal input power. The development process of the robot is described and the motion simulation analysis results are presented. A simplified O-M-Climber prototype is also demonstrated.