Adaptive Neural Network Control with Fuzzy Compensation for Upper Limb Exoskeleton in Active Spacesuit

Abstract

In order to meet the maneuverability requirements of spacesuits for future manned planetary exploration, the concept of an active spacesuit based on the joint-assisted exoskeleton technology is presented. First, by studying the kinematic characteristics of the operator wearing the simulated spacesuit in different gravity environments, we developed a prototype of the upper limb exoskeleton. Then, the resistance moment of the simulated spacesuit was roughly obtained to match the operator’s motion range, being utilized to design the resistance moment model. Considering the unknown resistance moment effects in the active spacesuit and the uncertainties of the exoskeleton’s dynamics model, an adaptive neural network control with fuzzy compensation was developed to drive the upper limb exoskeleton’s tracking desired trajectories. Experimental studies were carried out using an upper limb exoskeleton to illustrate that the proposed method has excellent trajectory tracking performance and good adaptive ability to the gravity environment changes.