Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
A Compact Modular Active Hand Rehabilitation Device
Categories for this Invention
Category- Rehabilitation Robotics, and Assistive Test Equipment & Design Manufacturing
Applications – Stroke Rehabilitation, Post-Surgery Recovery, Sports Injury Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapy
Industry- Healthcare and Medical Devices
Market – Global rehabilitation equipment market in terms of revenue was estimated to reach $19.8 Bn by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.9%.
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Problem Statement
- Current hand rehabilitation devices are not universally adjustable for different hand sizes and shapes, necessitating individualized devices for each patient.
- Existing devices are often bulky and heavy due to multiple actuators and tethered transmissions.
- Further, the high cost and complex control systems of current rehabilitation devices make them expensive and challenging to maintain, reducing their accessibility for widespread use.
Technology
The present invention relates to rehabilitation device that enables the extension and flexion of the fingers to perform grasp and release activities.
Compact and Lightweight Design :
- The device uses a single actuator, significantly reducing its size and weight compared to traditional multi-actuator systems.
Adjustable Flexibility:
- Features a modular guide assembly with flexible metal bands that can be adjusted to accommodate various hand sizes and degrees of movement.
Efficient Motion Translation:
- Incorporates a cam plate and guide assembly to convert the actuator’s linear motion into precise sliding motion for each metal band, ensuring effective hand rehabilitation.
Key Features / Value Proposition
1. Compact Design:
- Single actuator minimizes device size and weight, enhancing portability and user comfort.
2. Customizable Fit
- Adjustable guide assembly and flexible metal bands cater to varying hand sizes and movement needs, ensuring personalized rehabilitation.
3. Efficient Motion Translation
- Cam plate and guide assembly convert linear motion into precise sliding motion, improving rehabilitation effectiveness.
4. Simplified Mechanism
- Reduced number of actuators lowers maintenance requirements and operational costs.
5. Enhanced Durability
- Robust metal bands and modular components ensure long-term reliability and consistent performance.
6. User-Friendly Operation
- Microcontroller integration allows for intuitive control and easy adjustments, facilitating user independence.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact For Licensing
sm-marketing@imail.iitm.ac.in
ipoffice2@iitm.ac.in
Research Lab
Prof. Asokan T
Department of Engineering Design
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref. 1724
- IN 494829 – Patent Granted
Technology Readiness Level
TRL – 4
Technology validated in lab scale.