Design and Control of a Compact Series Elastic Actuator Module for Robots in MRI Scanners

Abstract: In this study, we introduce a novel MRI-compatible rotary series elastic actuator module utilizing velocity-sourced ultrasonic motors for force-controlled robots operating within MRI scanners. Unlike previous MRI-compatible SEA designs, our module incorporates a transmission force sensing series elastic actuator structure, with four off-the-shelf compression springs strategically placed between the gearbox housing and the motor housing. This design features a compact size, thus expanding possibilities for a wider range of MRI robotic applications. To achieve precise torque control, we develop a controller that incorporates a disturbance observer tailored for velocity-sourced motors. This controller enhances the robustness of torque control in our actuator module, even in the presence of varying external impedance, thereby augmenting its suitability for MRI-guided medical interventions. Experimental validation demonstrates the actuator's torque control performance in both 3 Tesla MRI and non-MRI environments, achieving a 5% settling time of 0.05 seconds and a steady-state error within 2.5% of its maximum output torque. Notably, our torque controller exhibits consistent performance across low and high external impedance scenarios, in contrast to conventional controllers for velocity-sourced series elastic actuators, which struggle with steady-state performance under low external impedance conditions.