Preliminary evaluation of the helping hand electro-mechanical arm

Abstract

Robots can serve as interactive aids for performing personal and vocational activities and improve the quality of life for persons with severe mobility impairments. A major challenge has been making this technology functional, practical, and affordable. A technology transfer process is presently un derway to validate the safety, reliability and effectiveness of the Helping Hand Electro-mechanical Arm. This paper discusses the preliminary clinical evaluation and technology transfer procedure for the Helping Hand system.