  This paper explores the application of Koopman operator theory to the control
of robotic systems. The operator is introduced as a method to generate
data-driven models that have utility for model-based control methods. We then
motivate the use of the Koopman operator towards augmenting model-based
control. Specifically, we illustrate how the operator can be used to obtain a
linearizable data-driven model for an unknown dynamical process that is useful
for model-based control synthesis. Simulated results show that with increasing
complexity in the choice of the basis functions, a closed-loop controller is
able to invert and stabilize a cart- and VTOL-pendulum systems. Furthermore,
the specification of the basis function are shown to be of importance when
generating a Koopman operator for specific robotic systems. Experimental
results with the Sphero SPRK robot explore the utility of the Koopman operator
in a reduced state representation setting where increased complexity in the
basis function improve open- and closed-loop controller performance in various
terrains, including sand.
