In this paper, we propose an optimal design for starfish capturing manipulator module with fourbar linkage mechanism. A tool link with compliance is attached on the four-bar linkage, and the tool repeats detaching starfish from the ground and putting it into the storage box. Since the tool is not rigid and the manipulator is operating underwater, the trajectory of the tool tip is determined by its dynamics as well as kinematics. We analyzed the trajectory of the manipulator tool tip by quasi-static analysis considering both kinematics and dynamics. In optimization, the lengths of each link and the tool stiffness are considered as control variables. To maximize the capturing ability, capturing stroke of the four-bar manipulator trajectory is maximized. Reaction force and reaction moment, and other kinematic constraints were considered as inequality constraints.
