This work deals with a 4-DOF flexible continuum robot that employs a spring as its backbone. The mechanism consists of two modules and each module has 2 DOF. The special features of the proposed mechanism are the flexibility and the backdrivability of the whole body by using a spring backbone. Thus, even in the case of collision with human body, this device can ensure safety. The design and the kinematics for this continuum mechanism are introduced. The performance of this continuum mechanism was shown through simulation and experiment.

This work proposes structure of spring backbone micro endoscope. For effective surgery in narrow and limited space, many manipulators are developing that different to existed structure. This device can move like elephant nose or snake unlike the existing robots. For this motion, a mechanism that uses spring backbone and wires has been developed. The new type endoscope that has Z axis motion for spring structure, therefore it has 3 degree of freedom, two rotations and one linear motion. And new kinematics for backbone structure is proposed using simple geographic analysis. The Jacobian and stiffness modeling are also derived. Exact actuator sizing is determined using stiffness model. Finally, the proposed kinematics are verified by simulation and experiments.