In this paper, methods based on various spline techniques for planning and fast modifications of a trajectory for robot manipulators are investigated. Algebraic and trigonometric splines, their combined use, and the use of the B-spline technique are analyzed and compared in detail. In so doing, we focus on the performance of sudden changes in a predefined trajectory, e.g. obstacle avoidance in real-time applications. Some comparative examples illustrate our results.

In this paper, the use of algebraic and trigonometric splines for the trajectory planning of robot manipulators is discussed. First, the two methods are analyzed and compared in detail; then, a strategy, which involves a combined use of the two schemes to perform sudden changes in a predefined trajectory (e.g. in case of obstacle avoidance) is proposed. Results show that the main interest in using trigonometric splines lies especially in the task of connecting two separate pieces of cubic splines, as overshoots are significantly reduced, although the continuity of velocity, acceleration and (in case) jerk is guaranteed.