The Hong Kong Polytechnic is a research centre of excellence in the field of robotics. On October 31, Dr. Hu Xiao-ling and the research team presented an innovative robotic arm. The robotic arm facilitates mobile rehabilitation of the upper limbs for stroke patients. The construct is definitely unique in that it supports the rehabilitation of the patient in a do-it-yourself way.
It often happens that stroke patients have to endure a lot of difficulties to regain full control of their limbs. Not only that, they must apply to public health for access to rehabilitative care, with all the difficulties of the case. The invention by PolyU’s Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) is a flexible, easy-to-use tool for patients. But let’s see together what are the technical and functional characteristics of this fantastic found.
The invention
The mobile exoskeleton has a light design for a maximum weight of 300g, a low power consumption (the batteries have a life of about 4 hours of autonomy). In addition, its aesthetic composition is very similar to a wearable wristband, thus alleviating discomfort from an aesthetic point of view. From a functional point of view, the robotic arm effectively improves rehabilitation. The innovation of the mobile exoskeleton uses common robotic technology and the exoskeleton stimulation technology patented by PolyU.
The principle of this technology is to provide mechanical strength to the subject through involuntary muscle signals. Combining the advantages of exoskeletal robot models, the innovative arm is lightweight, compact, and responsive.
Benefits and functionalities
Therefore, the robotic arm is composed of elements that are easy to wear. It also has a sporty design thanks to a washable fabric that protects against UVA rays.
And then, the device connects to an App that monitors your training session. Again, the App records real-time performance, providing useful data to medical staff in the rehabilitation process of the patient.
Therefore, tests conducted on 10 people suffering from stroke have shown better muscle mobility, less spasms, and improvements in the wrist and hand after 20 complete training sessions.
These and other fantastic inventions about Robotics can be found on our website. The Patent, The Inventions Magazine!