Abstract
This paper presents two object manipulation planning methods based on fitted stratified and semi-stratified approaches using finger relocations. The problem is discussed in the framework of a motion planning problem. The goal of the methods is to steer an object from an initial configuration to a final configuration while it is possible to reposition the fingertips on the surface in a predefined way. We assume there is no rolling and sliding but finger relocations are allowed. The first technique follows a pure stratified approach, however unlike the previously published method, the exact kinematic model of the manipulation system is matched with a virtual model masking the behavior of the original system. This provides a simpler model than the earlier stratified method by reducing the generally hard symbolic computation problem to a simple (almost pure numerical) one. The paper also introduces a semi-stratified manipulation planning based on the newly defined fitted system. This second method enhances the stratified motion planning with a definition of systematic finger relocation sequence. The proposed decomposition is based on the selection of suitable reference contact points. As the main benefit, the method enables a greater freedom in defining the desired fingertip trajectories. The methods are illustrated through an example of object reorientation.