Intelligent control design in robotics and rehabilitation

Abstract

For control purposes in robotics or rehabilitation, we may use properly simplified dynamic models with a reduced number of degrees of freedom. First, we define a set of variables that best characterize its dynamic performance in the required motion task. Second, driving forces/torques are properly assigned in order to achieve the required dynamic performance in an efficient way. The usual performance requirements are for positioning accuracy, movement execution time, and energy expenditure. We consider complex biomechatronic systems (BMS) like human with active orthosis or robotic arm that have to perform two main types of motion tasks: goal-directed movements and motion/posture stabilization. We propose new design concepts and criteria for BMS based on necessary and sufficient conditions for their robust controllability. Using simplified, yet realistic, models, we give several important examples in robotics and rehabilitation to illustrate the main features and advantages of our approach. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.