Climbing methods for robotic snake

Current research is based around the need for snake like mobile robots to grasp and climb around cylindrical objects including thin ropes. Traditional helical torsion methods require large diameters and are limited in use by the snake power cord, which can easily tangle. New methods being researched can mitigate these issues. Joint simulation and control methods can also allow for climbing of dynamic structures like rope in addition to static pipes. Both parts of the research focus on minimizing parts costs, allowing for compatible systems to easily be upgraded with minimal sensor additions. The current test platform is an 18DoF modular robotic snake with an additional IMU sensor for orientation.