Tech Shout!

Dr. Oren Masory, a professor of Mechanical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science in collaboration with engineering graduate student Melissa Morris has developed a cable driven robot which will be a great support in the rehabilitation period for stroke and Parkinson patients.

The robot consists of moving parts like motors, cables and spools, enclosed within an acrylic case with a handle (joystick) that is indirectly connected to the system through magnetic attraction. The device can be used without any sort of supervision either at the home or at a doctor’s dispensary. The robot will not cause any harm to the patient as it does not utilize any rigid parts.

“Right now, physical therapists have no way of collecting empirical data that can measure the path, force or progress of any patient. This device can help alleviate that problem,” said Morris.

“Because this device is much lower in cost and less intimidating than existing systems, therapists will be able to track and manage the progress of multiple patients remotely with fewer office visits. The reduction in costs will enable patients to receive longer sessions of therapy which are still covered by insurance,” Masory added.

To add in additional security, the robot also uses a safety button on the handle of the device. When released during operation, a signal is sent to the controller that the patient has lost contact with the handle, and the system immediately shuts down. The Robot can also help physical therapists in modifying the program so as to create a new path or change the level of resistance as per the patient’s suitability. The robot will also analyze the patient’s progress with position and speed of the patient.