Compliant robotic hand based on synergy between fingers

The purpose of this project is to design a low cost electromyography (EMG) controlled humanoid robotic hand.  This reports primary objective is to provide a detailed review of the projects progress throughout the duration of Senior Design 1.  A secondary objective of this report is to provide future project management plans for Senior Design 2.  The customer requires the robotic hand to be capable of grasping a 3 inch diameter ball, or cup.  Research was reviewed to determine which human hand grasping characteristics were needed to achieve this specification.  SMAK Engineering generated three possible design concepts.    After studying the design characteristics of each concept, a 17 degree of freedom hand was determined to best to achieve the customers grasping specification.  The selected design concept was also determined measuring several other design factors covered within the report.  The 17 degree of freedom hand concept was further developed to incorporate a cable-pulley mechanism operated by two or less actuators.  Preliminary Analysis of the design concept was started in Senior Design 1.  A thorough analysis will be completed over the winter break to refine, and finalize the design of the device.  The testing, and build phases of project will be completed in Senior Design 2.