Core Concepts
The author introduces a new method to evaluate human-robot co-adaptation in lower limb exoskeletons by analyzing muscle activity and interaction torque as a two-dimensional random variable. The study compares different controllers to optimize human-robot interaction.
Abstract
The study focuses on evaluating the impact of different controllers on human-exoskeleton interaction during treadmill walking. It introduces the concept of an Interaction Portrait (IP) to visualize the distribution of variables and assess user adaptation strategies. Results indicate distinct co-adaptation strategies influenced by controller type, highlighting implications for power augmentation and rehabilitation applications.
The study compares three controllers: Time-Based Torque Controller (TBC), Hybrid Torque Controller (HTC), and Adaptive Model-Based Torque Controller (AMTC). Analysis includes ground reaction force, muscle activation, interaction torque, VO2 measurements, and IP analysis. Findings suggest that HTC is suitable for power augmentation while AMTC is more beneficial for rehabilitation contexts.
Key metrics such as total muscular effort, total interaction torque, and normalized oxygen uptake are used to compare controller performance across different speeds. Statistical tests are employed to identify significant differences between controllers. The study provides insights into optimizing human-exoskeleton interaction for various applications through controller design.
Stats
Compared to TBC, both HTC and AMTC significantly lower users’ normalized oxygen uptake.
AMTC has the lowest interaction torque compared to TBC and HTC.
AMTC resulted in a decrease in total oxygen uptake at ultra-slow and slow walking speeds.
Participants leaned towards contributing more to gait with AMTC compared to HTC.
Participants exhibited less resistance from the exoskeleton with AMTC than with TBC or HTC.
Quotes
"The IP analysis reveals distinct co-adaptation strategies influenced by controller type."
"Results suggest that HTC is suitable for power augmentation while AMTC is more beneficial for rehabilitation contexts."