What is whole-body robot control?

Definition

Whole-body robot control plans and regulates the motion of a robot's torso, limbs and effectors at the same time. A reach or manipulation can shift balance and change contact forces, so isolated joint commands may not produce a stable physical action.

The controller must satisfy goals while respecting joint limits, collisions, balance, grip and environmental constraints. It is especially important for humanoids that must combine walking, posture and precise hand actions.

Acronyms and aliases

whole-body robotic control synonymwhole-body control variant

Frequently asked questions

Why is whole-body control important for humanoid robots?

Humanoids must maintain balance while moving several limbs, so manipulation and locomotion cannot always be planned as independent actions.

How is whole-body control different from arm control?

Arm control focuses on an individual manipulator, while whole-body control coordinates the arm with the torso, legs, balance and other contacts.

Videos explaining whole-body robot control