This paper focuses on the problem of force-feedback for the human-operator hand when manipulating virtual objects. We propose a method for the computation of feedback-forces that have to be applied on each individual phalanx and jinger of the human hand in order to display pertinent, kinesthetic information about static or dynamic chamcteristics of objects present in the virtual scene. External forces and moments of the manipulated virtual objects have to be mapped on the contact-forces space of the virtual grasp. The method is based on the solution of a nonlinear programming problem, formu-lated by performing a static analysis of a general, multiple contact points virtual grasp. A methodology for modelling interactions within a virtual environment, and performing realistic grasping and manipu-lation, is also presented.

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A control apparatus and method for controlling a remote actuator, the control apparatus having a kinesthetic feedback system for providing a kinesthetic sensation to the operator as a physical sensation representative of the resistive forces encountered by the remote actuator. The control apparatus is configured to be releasably mounted to the hand of the operator with control modules supported at preselected joints of the hand. The control modules sense changes in the angular orientation in the respective joints and generate a control signal as a function of the change. This control signal is used to drive the corresponding actuator. Each actuator includes a sensor to sense resistive forces encountered by the actuator and generate a response signal as a function of the resistive forces. A magnetostrictive clutch mechanism on the control module is controlled by the response signal to provide a resistive force against movement of the control module thereby providing a kinesthetic sensation to the hand of the operator.

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This report describes the MBAssociates Exoskeleton/Merlin Robot Interface used in th Human Sensory Feedback Lab Testbed for studies of human performance in coarse positioning tasks. The dual-armed, seven-degree-of-freedom (DOF) exoskeleton, worn by an operator, serves as a master device to control the end-effector position/orientation of a six-DOF Merlin slave robot. Kinematic position transformation matrices are detailed for both master and slave devices, as is the approach used for operator control of a six-DOF robot using a seven- DOF exoskeleton. The use of a desktop 386-33MHz type personal computer as a central system controller, user interface, and software development platform is described.

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A proposed adaptive soft orthotic device performs motion sensing and production of assistive forces with a modular, pneumatically-driven, hyper-elastic composite. Wrapping the material around a joint will allow simultaneous motion sensing and active force response through shape and rigidity control. This monolithic elastomer sheet contains a series of miniaturized pneumatically-powered McKibben-type actuators that exert tension and enable adaptive rigidity control. The elastomer is embedded with conductive liquid channels that detect strain and bending deformations induced by the pneumatic actua-tors. In addition, the proposed system is modular and can be configured for a diverse range of motor tasks, joints, and human subjects. This modular functionality is accomplished with a decentralized network of self-configuring nodes that manage the collection of sensory data and the delivery of actuator feedback commands. This paper mainly describes the design of the soft orthotic device as well as actuator and sensor components. The characterization of the individual sensors, actuators, and the integrated device is also presented.

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Здесь приводится отрывок из фильма National Geographic Make Me Superhuman посвященного экзоскелетам. Пока на английском и только 1 часть.

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