Control mechanism of an autonomous jaw-movement simulator, JSN/1C, during open-close movement

Abstract

In order to clarify the control mechanism of jaw movements, the authors developed a robotized jaw simulator, JSN/1C, equipped with cable-tendon DC-servo actuators simulating masseter, lateral-pterygoid and digastric muscles. This simulator also incorporated a life-like compliance-control mechanism of the actuators, employing data of bite-force, tooth contact, cable-tension and cable-length. This updated mechanism enables the simulator to perform more natural open-close movements.