Hybrid adaptive impedance-leader-follower control for multi-arm coordination manipulators

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a hybrid adaptive impedance-leader-follower control algorithm for multi-arm coordination manipulators, which is significant for dealing with the problems of kinematics inconsistency and error accumulation of interactive force in multi-arm system. Design/methodology/approach – This paper utilized a motion mapping theory in Cartesian space to establish a centralized dynamic leader-follower control algorithm which helped to reduce the possibility of kinematics inconsistency for multiple manipulators. A virtual linear spring model (VLSM) was presented based on a recognition approach of characteristic marker. This paper accomplished an adaptive impedance control algorithm based on the VLSM, which took into account the non-rigid contact characteristic. Experimentally demonstrated results showed the proposed algorithm guarantees that the motion and interactive forces asymptotically converge to the prescribed values. Findings – The hybrid control method improves the accuracy and reliability of multi-arm coordination system, which presents a new control framework for multiple manipulators. Practical implications – This algorithm has significant commercial applications, as a means of controlling multi-arm coordination manipulators that could serve to handle large objects and assemble complicated objects in industrial and hazardous environment. Originality/value – This work presented a new control framework for multiple coordination manipulators, which can ensure consistent kinematics and reduce the influence of error accumulation, and thus can improve the accuracy and reliability of multi-arm coordination system.