This paper elaborates on a method developed by the authors for solving
the inverse kinematics of a general 6R manipulator. The method is sho
wn to be applicable to determining the joint variables associated with
all series-chain manipulators and closed-loop linkages constructed in
a single loop with revolute, prismatic, or cylindric joints. The meth
od is shown to yield a single polynomial, of minimum degree, in terms
of just one of the joint variables. Once the roots of this polynomial
are found. the remaining variables are then usually determined from li
near sets of equations. It is shown that this method works equally wel
l for general geometries and for special geometries such as those char
arcterized by intersecting or parallel joint axes.