The Mechanical Design of a Remote Controlled Multi-directional Rotating Platform for Stage Performances

This project involves the design and development of a multi-directional platform with an independently rotating top to be used onstage during theatrical and dance performances. The project is the result of collaboration between the University of South Florida’s College of The Arts (Merry Lynn Morris, MFA) and the Center for Assistive, Rehabilitation and Robotics Technologies (Mechanical Engineering). The problem has been to development a robust, remote controlled, compact, transportable, and inexpensive moving platform with a rotating top. This platform adds an additional choreographic element to Ms. Morris’ unique style of dancing, which involves the use of a variety of mobility devices and performers including dancers with disabilities. The platform is designed to hold up to five-hundred pounds with an independently rotating top while the base moves forward/backward, sideways, or diagonally using Omni-directional wheels. The existing design has a removable top surface, folding wing sections to collapse the unit down to fit through an average size doorway, and detachable ramp ends for wheelchair access. The top of the platform is driven by a compact gear train designed to deliver maximum torque within a limited space. The current structural, drive system, and power system designs will be presented here