Advanced Mechatronic & Robotic Devices
Background
We exploit our expertise in mechatronic systems design and control, including kinematics, to deliver benefits to end-users, such as healthcare practitioners and their patients. Key user-groups currently involved in this research include children with cerebral palsy and patients who have suffered strokes.
Current Novel Research Projects
intelligent Pneumatic Arm Movement (iPAM)
One of our main focuses is on the development of devices to help restore motor function in those who suffer brain injury. Here, a project that has received particular interest is the development of an intelligent robotic system to deliver physiotherapy. Developed in collaboration with the Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, iPAM, is a dual robotic system that is designed to deliver programmes of physical therapy to adults who have suffered stroke, and is currently undergoing clinical trials.
Visit iPAM webpage.
Direct Cardiac Compression Device
In a separate project members of iESD are working with one of our other research institutes, iMBE, to develop a mechanical assistive device that will be used for terminal heart failure patients as either bridge to transplant or destination therapy. Again this is an interdisciplinary project involving mechanical and textile engineers working alongside cardiothoracic surgeons. This was one of the items featured in The Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition.
Visit iVAD webpage.
Active Gaming Device for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the commonest cause of severe physical disability in childhood affecting 1 in 400 children. Difficulties with arm movement are common in children with CP. A low cost computer home based rehabilitation exercise system (HB-RES) based on joystick/video games has been developed for use with young children with CP. This allows the children to practice arm movements in an enjoyable game setting where the resulting exercise has potential for therapeutic benefit. A second grant has been awarded to develop the work further.
View more details.
Seating System to Improve Postural Control in Children with Scoliosis
In a joint project with iMBE, members of iESD are developing a seating system for postural control of the spine in children with Scoliosis. Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a person's spine is curved from side to side, and may also be rotated. The aim for this research is to develop an objective measure to aid in the prescription of seating to non-ambulant, Cerebral Palsy children with Scoliosis.
View more details.
Other Projects
Other projects include the development of a measurement system for lower-limb movement in relation to venous ulceration and investigation into dynamic modeling design and control of lower-limb prostheses to mimic human motion.