Human-in-the-Loop Optimization of Wearable Robotic Devices to Improve Human-Robot Interaction: A Systematic Review.

Journal: IEEE transactions on cybernetics
PMID:

Abstract

This article presents a systematic review on wearable robotic devices that use human-in-the-loop optimization (HILO) strategies to improve human-robot interaction. A total of 46 HILO studies were identified and divided into upper and lower limb robotic devices. The main aspects from HILO were identified, reviewed, and classified in four areas: 1) human-machine systems; 2) optimization methods; 3) control strategies; and 4) experimental protocols. A variety of objective functions (physiological, biomechanical, and subjective), optimization strategies, and optimized control parameters configurations used in different control strategies are presented and analyzed. An overview of experimental protocols is provided, including metrics, tasks, and conditions tested. Moreover, the relevance given to training or adaptation periods was explored. We outline an HILO framework that includes current wearable robots, optimization strategies, objective functions, control strategies, and experimental protocols. We conclude by highlighting current research gaps and defining future directions to improve the development of advanced HILO strategies in upper and lower limb wearable robots.

Authors

  • María Alejandra Díaz
    Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.
  • Matthias Vos
  • Arnau Dillen
    Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
  • Bruno Tassignon
    Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.
  • Louis Flynn
  • Joost Geeroms
  • Romain Meeusen
    Human Physiology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia.
  • Tom Verstraten
  • Jan Babič
    Dept. of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
  • Philipp Beckerle
    Institut für Mechatronische Systeme im Maschinenbau, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Otto-Berndt-Straße 2, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany.
  • Kevin De Pauw
    Human Physiology and Sports Physiotherapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.