Sharma Lab: Neuromuscular Control and Robotics

Our primary research focus is on the design of nonlinear and adaptive control algorithms for functional electrical stimulation (FES) and rehabilitation robots. In one of the projects, we are designing control algorithms that coordinate FES and a powered exoskeleton that assists walking and standing functions in persons with neurological disorders. Another project focuses on modeling and control for tremor suppression in the wrist muscles using low-level sensory stimulation. This project aims to help people with Essential Tremor and Parkinsonian Tremor. In these projects, we are working to include novel muscle state sensing modalities such as ultrasound imaging and surface electromyography to capture the electromechanical response of artificially stimulated muscles.