Hand rehabilitation using Soft-Robotics

Abstract

Here we discuss a new design of a device developed for hand rehabilitation based on Soft Robotics. We based our work on the PneuNets, but with a different design approach. The resulting mechanism is operated in a Serious Game (SG) context in order to create a stimulating environment that enhances the rehabilitation process. We characterized the prototype and the control scheme. In particular, we described the relationship between the actuators pressure and the device angle establishing a linear approximation that allowed us to properly control the device. During a long test, we established the device's competence and identified its shortcomings. The planned improvements are discussed in the conclusion.