Applications of robots in rehabilitation

Abstract

The ability to manipulate objects in our environments is an important human characteristic. The use of a single multipurpose device, such as a robot, offers significant advantages over a variety of assistive devices and tools. This article supports the use of robots by disabled persons and rehabilitation applications of robots. Vocational applications and independent living applications are featured. Independent living uses of robots which have actually been implemented cover a wide variety of daily living tasks. Although most uses of robots in rehabilitation environments consists of robots designed for other uses (e.g. industrial, educational), some development projects have been undertaken and are also presented here. The technological issues (e.g. sensors, end effectors, and alternative human control of robots) and nontechnological issues (e.g. cost effectiveness, acceptance, and safety) which affect the design, development, modification, and use of robots in rehabilitation are also reviewed.