Mathematical Modeling
Vol. 3 (2019), Issue 2, pg(s) 59-62

MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES AND SYSTEMS

MODELING AND SIMULATIONS OF AN UPPER LIMB EXOSKELETON DESIGNED FOR REHABILITATION AND TRAINING

  • 1 Institute of Mechanics, BAS, Sofia, Bulgaria

Abstract

The work presents a study of an upper limb exoskeleton designed for rehabilitation and training. While in the first stages of rehabilitation, when the patient is unable to move alone, the exoskeleton must be rigid, in the next stages it should be able to respond to any movement made by the patient. The key feature here is transparency: the robot must be able to “hide” if the patient is able to make the movement without assistance. The aim of the work is to identify and evaluate an appropriate solution of the upper limb exoskeleton that provides transparency and natural safety on the one hand, and force impact and performance on the other. In the paper, the mechanical model of the exoskeleton was shown. The mechanical structure is similar to the structure of the human arm. Through the kinematic model, the direct and inverse tasks of kinematics are solved using the Octave matrix software. The upper limb exoskeleton is designed as a haptic device that can perform tasks in virtual reality. Simulations of the interaction force between the patient and the exoskeleton were conducted also using the Octave software. Here, an assessment of the interaction force was made as a result of the exoskeleton passive impedance and the active control of the exoskeleton. Finally, conclusions and development recommendations are given.

Keywords

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