A kinematic support for an operator controlled hand tool, e.g. a hydraulic cutter, has the weight of the tool carried by balanced spring systems. The operator wears a control vest to which the tool is attached and operates a hand grip to move the tool. The tool movements are dampened by balanced spring systems operating in the various axes, and with selected rotational damping. The operator movements on the hand grip are smoothed to provide a smooth movement of the tool without vibrations. The operator is able to control a precision work cycle without complex servo controls. A tactile control system monitors the spacing of the tool to the workpiece.
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