Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2006
In this paper, a 3-DOF parallel kinematic machine (PKM) with a passive link is introduced. The forward kinemaic model is established, and a new technique is proposed to solve this model. The developed forward kinematic solver (FKS) is employed in two new applications: the determination of joint workspace and sensor-based real-time monitoring. A joint workspace concept is proposed for the optimization of a PKM structure. It is defined as a reachable area in the joint coordinate system under given ranges of active joint motions. The larger a joint workspace is, the higher utilization of joint motion capacity is. Sensor-based monitoring is applied in real-time system operation, by which a remote user can monitor a PKM through Internet based on the feedbacks of the joint encoders or the on-site stereo camera.