Modern Robotics: Foundations of Robot Motion

Course provided by Model Institute of Engineering & Technology

4 modules

Master Drone Technology for Environmental Science

5 Level NCrF 

National Credit Framework

60 Hours 

Flexible Learning

Beginner Level

No prior experience required

Micro Course

02 Credit

Course Overview

This course introduces the mathematical foundations and computational tools used in robotic motion analysis. The course focuses on understanding robot configurations, degrees of freedom, and spatial motion representation through twists and wrenches, essential for anyone pursuing advanced studies or careers in robotics.

Key Learning Highlights

  • Understand robot mechanisms, configuration spaces, and mobility constraints.

  • Apply mathematical tools such as transformation matrices and SE(3) group theory to represent motion.

  • Compute and interpret spatial velocities (twists) and forces (wrenches) in robotic systems.

  • Analyze serial and closed-chain kinematic structures with practical examples.

  • Use modeling and simulation tools to visualize robotic motion and mechanisms.

Tools & Platforms Used

Python (NumPy / Robotics Toolbox)
MATLAB & Simulink
CoppeliaSim / V-REP
Jupyter Notebooks

Learning Outcome

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Define and analyze configuration space (C-space) and robot mobility.

  • Distinguish between holonomic and non-holonomic systems.

  • Represent motion using transformation matrices and Lie groups.

  • Model spatial velocities and forces as twists and wrenches.

  • Simulate robot motion in software tools such as V-REP, MATLAB, or Python.

  • Develop a foundational understanding of serial-chain and closed-chain robot kinematics.

Master the course with just 4 Modules

This course provides a strong foundation in the mathematical and mechanical principles of robot motion. Learners explore configuration spaces, degrees of freedom, and mobility constraints, while mastering transformation matrices and SE(3) representations for motion analysis. The course further develops skills in computing spatial velocities, forces, and torques, and introduces kinematic chains through real-world robotic systems. Practical modeling and simulation activities help learners visualize and analyze robotic mechanisms, bridging theory with application.

Introduction to Robot Configuration and Mobility
  • Overview of robot mechanisms

  • Configuration space (C-space) and degrees of freedom (DOF)

  • Topology of configuration spaces

  • Holonomic vs non-holonomic constraints

  • Transformation matrices and the SE(3) group

  • Homogeneous transformations in 3D space

  • Adjoint transformations and their applications

  • Definition and computation of twists and wrenches

  • Relationship between spatial velocity and robot configuration

  • Representation of forces and torques in robotic arms

  • Serial and closed-chain mechanisms

  • Examples from industrial robotics and mobile systems

  • Modeling and visualization using simulators

Are you ready to take the next step toward your career?