Self hand-rehabilitation system based on wearable technology

摘要

After stroke some people can be left with sequelae, namely hand motor impairments. Present hand motor rehabilitation strategies are limited to the availability of a technician or caregiver for providing support. Additionally, these strategies rely on exercises that are repetitive and long lasting, which could be demotivating for a patient, therefore compromising optimal results. We see the future of rehabilitation supported by novel robotized systems combined with virtual reality. Nowadays, these novel systems are expensive and still require human support, so we designed a "self rehabilitation system". The main inspiration for us was video gaming, as gaming concepts and devices could be used for engaging patients in rehabilitation exercises. Our system is comprised of a robotic glove, an Arduino board, a Myo armband and a virtual reality video game made using Unity 3D. By combining these four items, we are building a low cost, engaging and easy-to-use hand rehabilitation system.