EMG-Based Kinematic Impedance Control of a Lower-Limb Exoskeleton

Abstract

This paper presents the control of a lower-limb exoskeleton in real time, to assist a pathological gait, taking into account only electromyography (EMG) events and a characteristic angular pattern of a normal gait. The algorithm consists of an impedance control scheme that uses EMG signals to modify the characteristic angular pattern of a normal gait. EMG signals were characterized using the simple square integral (SSI) index and this information was used to identify a characteristic EMG pattern in the semitendinosus and gastrocnemius muscles. Finally, a series of experimental tests were conducted with a volunteer to validate the adequate performance of the system.