Joint torque detection system

摘要

A joint torque detection system having a plurality of post-like members disposed around an axis of a joint which connects two links. The plurality of post-like members deform or twist when a torque is imparted to one of the links. An electric motor is fixed at one of the links and the motor rotation is reduced by a harmonic-drive speed reducer fixed at the other of the links. The plurality of post-like members are annularly disposed around the joint axis such that they embrace the speed reducer. A gap sensor (displacement detector) is fixed to the second link, close to the speed reducer between the output of the speed reducer and the second link in such a manner that the sensor generates a signal indicative of relative displacement of the speed reducer output (connected to the one of the links) and the second link. With this arrangement, the system can be incorporated in a small link mechanism such as a robot finger link mechanism, with excellent detection accuracy and an elongated service life.