Embedded Fuzzy Logic Controller for Positive and Negative Pressure Control in Pneumatic Soft Robots

A key challenge in soft robotics is controlling the large deformation experienced as a result of high compliance nature of soft robots. In this work, a software control strategy for regulating the amount of internal positive and negative air pressure inside pneumatic soft robots is presented. Since the air pressure has a direct effect on the amount of deformation, the position of the robot is controlled. Pressure control was implemented with a fuzzy logic controller, which is described with its performance shown. The approach can be integrated into any specified soft robotic actuator requiring pneumatic actuation e.g. bending, triangular and muscle actuators.