Articles tagged with Rehabilitation Robots
The Data-driven Robotic Balance Assistant (DRBA) supports seniors with mobility issues, improving balance, daily activities, and reducing caregiver burden. Community trials successfully concluded at Lions Befrienders' Active Ageing Centres.
A multimillion-dollar grant supports Rice's Preston and Sanchez in advancing assistive clothing technology. They aim to create comfortable, scalable, and affordable garments that can provide support, balance, and stability for people with mobility limitations.
A new robotic design uses vine-like structures to lift and grasp a variety of objects, including humans, with a gentler approach. The robot can snake around obstacles, squeeze through tight spaces, and even secure itself in a closed loop to create a sling.
Robotic exoskeletons enhance cancer patients' mobility, muscle strength, and gait training while providing personalized support and real-time feedback. This innovation integrates traditional therapies, nutritional support, and cognitive behavioral therapy to improve therapeutic outcomes.
The Omnia bionic leg, developed by the Italian Institute of Technology, won the Cybathlon 2024 leg prosthesis race with its semipowered knee and ankle system. Andrea Modica, a transfemoral amputee and pilot of the device, successfully completed 9 out of 10 tasks in just 2 minutes and 57 seconds.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology found that combining non-invasive brain stimulation and robotic rehabilitation can significantly improve motor recovery in a mouse stroke model. The treatment restored parvalbumin interneuron dynamics, leading to better motor function.
Antonio Bicchi has been selected for the 2025 Pioneer in Robotics and Automation Award for his groundbreaking contributions to robotics and prosthetics. He is recognized for developing innovative robotic limbs that match human hand capabilities, as well as natural prosthetic limbs.
Scientists develop brain-computer interface that allows users to design distinct tactile experiences for different objects, enabling them to guess the object by sensation alone. The study represents an important step towards creating a neuroprosthetic that feels pleasant and intuitive to use.
PolyU's EmoFriends interactive toy and Transparent Knee Guard wearable device have won the prestigious iF Design Awards 2025 for their cutting-edge sensing technology and emotional support capabilities. The devices demonstrate innovative design solutions for healthcare and technology, showcasing PolyU's commitment to research excellence.
A team developed a system integrating implanted spinal cord neuroprosthesis with rehabilitation robotics, delivering well-timed electrical pulses to stimulate muscles. The technology enhances immediate mobility and fosters long-term recovery, presenting a more effective rehabilitation approach than robotics alone.
Researchers at UCF aim to create mobile robotic assistants that offer easier control and a better robot-human interface. The project, supported by a $600,000 grant, will focus on testing and user feedback, with initial trials conducted with students and adults with upper body paralysis.
Researchers at Stanford University have designed a comfortable, flexible knit sleeve that simulates realistic touch using pressure-based haptics. The Haptiknit sleeve provides more accurate tactile feedback than vibration-based devices, allowing for smoother navigation, military communication, and rehabilitation.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a world-first system to automatically recommend optimal rehabilitation programs for stroke patients based on their motor paralysis degree. This system uses data from Teijin Pharma Ltd.'s ReoGo-J robot, providing tailored care even for staff without robotic experience.
The university introduces Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Double Major Bachelor of Engineering Science in Process Engineering and Synthetic Chemistry to address global demand for roboticists. The programs incorporate AI-related elements and are designed to provide students with a unique skill set.
The Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) system improved gait distance by 30% and maintained quality of life in patients with Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA). The study suggests that continuous HAL therapy can preserve physical function and quality of life over an extended period.
Researchers found that socially assistive robots improved stroke rehabilitation outcomes by encouraging people to continue their treatment in a non-judgmental setting. Participants who used the robots showed significant improvements in kinematic and clinical measures, including smoothness of movement and upper-extremity assessments.
A team of researchers is creating a socially assistive model for a robotic dog that adapts its behavior based on the owner's physiological and emotional characteristics. The project aims to improve interactions between humans and robots in home and healthcare settings.
A recent study published in Neurology found that commercial arm robots have no significant impact on the recovery of motor arm function in stroke patients. Despite improvements in technology, the robots did not demonstrate any improvement in muscle and arm function, and may even increase healthcare costs.
A randomized clinical trial found that overground robot-assisted gait training using a wearable robot significantly improved gross motor function and gait pattern in children with cerebral palsy. The study suggests that this type of assistance may complement standard rehabilitation by providing adequate support.
Researchers from Chiba University developed a foldable pouch actuator that enables finger extension in soft rehabilitation gloves, overcoming the limitation of existing actuators. The FPA facilitates joint-specific movements and has potential applications in telerehabilitation and care facilities.
Researchers created RoboFabric, a wearable fabric that can stiffen on demand for medical applications and soft robotics. The technology reduces muscle activity by up to 40% when assisting joints while lifting loads.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a lightweight fluidic engine that can power muscle-mimicking soft robots for use in assistive devices. The new engine generates significant force and is untethered to an external power source, making it particularly attractive for improving people's ability to move their upp...
Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed an innovative robotic rehabilitation system called SPINDLE to enhance the strength and dexterity of individuals with tremors. The study revealed significant benefits, including improved motor control, coordination, and neuroplasticity.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed an AI-powered method to train robotic exoskeletons to autonomously assist users in various movements, reducing energy consumption by up to 24.3% for able-bodied individuals and 15.4% for those with mobility impairments.
Researchers have developed an AI-powered controller that enables portable, robotic exoskeletons to learn and adapt in simulation, allowing for more efficient and realistic data. The new technology has shown promising results in reducing energy expenditure by up to 24.3% for wearers.
Researchers developed a shoulder actuation testbed for rehabilitation, integrating pneumatic and electromagnetic forces for high precision and transparency. The system allows for natural-like interaction forces during disturbances, making rehabilitation experiences more natural and effective.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a first-ever stretchy electronic skin that can equip robots with human-level touch sensitivity. The new technology overcomes existing limitations in sensing accuracy as the material stretches, allowing for precise control and force manipulation.
Researchers will study wearable robotic assistance for chronic SCI, new assessment tools for spatial neglect, and a web-based job interview training tool for autistic youth. The studies aim to improve upper extremity movement function and employment outcomes for individuals with autism.
A portable robotic device has been developed to improve walking function in stroke survivors by altering gait asymmetry. The study, published in IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, reveals that the exoskeleton can effectively train individuals to modify their walking asymmetry.
A KAIST research team has developed a stretchable and adhesive microneedle sensor that can detect physiological signals without being affected by sweat and dead skin. The sensor allows for long-term stable control of wearable robots, enabling precise movement recognition for rehabilitation treatments.
The hip-assist robot EX1 improves walking ability, dynamic balance, and one-leg standing endurance in older adults. The four-week exercise program using EX1 significantly reduces the risk of falls and enhances overall health.
A soft, wearable robot was used to help a person living with Parkinson’s disease walk without freezing, eliminating the debilitating symptom and allowing them to regain their independence. The device provided instantaneous effects and consistently improved walking in a range of conditions.
Researchers at Boston University's Center for Neurorehabilitation have made two important advances that may help people with Parkinson's disease walk more smoothly. Wearable soft robotic apparel and a music-based technology were tested in studies, showing promising results in increasing walking duration and distance.
Researchers from the Institute for Basic Science developed a novel approach to healing muscle injury using conductive hydrogels and robot-assisted rehabilitation. The injectable tissue prosthesis enhances gait in rodent models without nerve stimulation, while improving long-term muscle tissue regeneration.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a sensor technology called computer vision-based optical strain (CVOS) that enhances durability and streamlines fabrication processes. This breakthrough enables the precise recognition of intricate bodily motions through a single sensor.
A team of New Jersey researchers reviewed the evidence on robotic exoskeleton devices for individuals with acquired brain injury, laying out a systematic framework for future research. The review highlights the need for comprehensive approaches to evaluate these devices and their role in improving mobility in individuals with acquired ...
A new portable EEG headset has been validated and tested for at-home stroke rehabilitation. The low-cost device connects the brain to powered exoskeletons, promoting motor recovery outcomes.
A new sensor developed by Queen Mary University of London enhances robots' sense of touch, allowing them to accurately measure interaction forces and geometry. This breakthrough could pave the way for more advanced and reliable robotics in the future, enabling better handling and manipulation of objects.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have created a new type of electric variable-stiffness artificial muscle with self-sensing capabilities, revolutionizing soft robotics and medical applications. The innovative technology enables rapid reactions and force sensing, making it ideal for integration into intricate robotic systems.
Researchers developed a soft robotic exoskeleton glove using AI to improve hand dexterity and classify song variations. The device provides real-time feedback and adjustments, making it easier for users to grasp correct movement techniques, with an accuracy of 97.13% in classifying correct and incorrect song versions.
A team of researchers from Harvard and MGH developed a soft robotic wearable capable of significantly assisting upper arm and shoulder movement in people with ALS. The device improved range of motion, reduced muscle fatigue, and increased performance of tasks like holding or reaching for objects.
A study published in Stroke journal found robot therapy to be as effective as traditional therapy in improving motor function and daily tasks for chronic stroke patients. The robotic device provided repetitive exercises and real-time analysis, leading to significant improvements in shoulder, elbow, and forearm use.
A study found that robotic therapy with high assistance levels improves upper limb function in severe-to-moderate stroke survivors, while moderate-to-mild patients perform better with less assistance. The researchers suggest tailoring robotic assistance to individual patient needs and encourage further research using objective tools.
Researchers developed a soft, stretchable, self-powered thermometer that can be integrated into stretchable electronics and soft robots, enabling new human-machine interfaces and applications. The sensor has high sensitivity and quick response time, and can measure temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius or as cold as -100 degrees Celsius.
Researchers developed a new fabrication method for wearable pressure sensors that enhance durability, sensitivity and transparency. The sensors can detect various body movements and health indicators, such as pulse, sweat, and temperature.
Researchers developed a bioinspired system using ultrasound measurements to create customized assistance profiles for users. The exosuit significantly reduced metabolic energy of walking across various speeds and inclines.
A new algorithm provides accurate solutions that mimic natural human movement, reducing the risk of injury. The Pro-ISADE approach improves calculation speed while ensuring calculated joint angles are feasible for robotic use in daily activities like drinking water and brushing teeth.
Researchers at UCLA and NASA are creating a robotic stepper device that uses precise measurements to help therapists monitor patients' progress in rehabilitation. The device could enable some wheelchair-bound individuals to learn to walk again or improve their walking ability, according to the researchers.
The MIT robot significantly improved patients' recovery of arm movement in a clinical trial involving 56 stroke victims. The robot provided adjustable levels of guidance and assistance to facilitate patients' arm movements, resulting in twice as high scores on tests measuring increased movement.
A clinical trial using a robot to aid in therapy for stroke patients showed significant improvements in short- and long-term recovery of arm movement. The robot provides quantitative data on forces and movements, increasing the productivity of human therapists while maintaining its role as a complementary tool.
Researchers developed an interactive 'robot therapist' to aid stroke patients, showing significant improvements in shoulder and arm movement. Long-term recovery was also greater for those assisted by the robot, enabling simple tasks like pushing objects across a table.
A Cornell University robot made from plastic Tinkertoy parts has been shown to perform repeatable, chattering, human-like stable steps without falling over on a gentle slope. The robot's design provides new insights into the mechanics of walking and may have implications for designing better powered and controlled biped robots.