Robotic Fencing Dummy

Abstract

This report outlines development of an automated fencing dummy that simulates fencing drills for Plymouth Fencing Academy. Sponsored by Coach Ian Rozich and Professor Wenda Tan, the project navigates challenges like time constraints, interdisciplinary demands, and budget limitations. Strategies such as role assignment, and modular development were employed. From 200 diverse design ideas, the team chose a humanoid robotic arm with two degrees of freedom. Detailed force analysis guided material and motor selections, resulting in an arm with a motorized elbow and manual forearm angle adjustment. A prototype target and arm was created that allows for actuation of the four most common parries seen in fencing.