Automated planning and scheduling in robot-aided rehabilitation: a review

Abstract

Robotic systems are increasingly utilized in rehabilitation contexts, offering tailored support for physical and cognitive functions. Enabling these systems to autonomously personalize treatments entails a critical role for automated planning and scheduling methodologies. However, a comprehensive review to map the control architectures of robotic rehabilitation systems that leverage automated planning for long-term customization is lacking, addressing a key gap in the literature. To bridge such a gap, this review systematically analyzed 26 studies retrieved from scientific databases after a careful selection performed following PRISMA guidelines. The search focused on works employing automated planning in robot-aided rehabilitation across physical and cognitive domains, as well as multi-user robotic environments. Papers were selected based on predefined criteria, including relevance to automated planning, peer-reviewed publication, and a focus on robotic systems in rehabilitation. The discussion highlights the primary similarities and differences in control architectures, adaptation strategies, and validation approaches among the reviewed systems. This review emphasizes the potential of automated planning to enhance personalization and adaptability in robotic rehabilitation, offering a foundation for more efficient and patient-centered therapeutic solutions.