Robotic jacket restores control of hands to people
A team of engineers and doctors from a Harvard laboratory has unveiled a soft robotic jacket that helps people who have lost the ability to move their arms due to conditions like a stroke or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The device, which looks like a regular vest, uses smart sensors and machine learning algorithms to recognize and amplify even the weakest movement intentions.
The jacket learns to adapt to each user, recognizing their intent to lift an arm with 94.2% accuracy and then completing the movement. This allows the user to exert one-third less effort. During trials, participants who hadn't been able to eat on their own for years were able to perform this task. Doctors also recorded objective improvements, including an increased range of motion and a reduction in involuntary body movements.
According to experts, this invention is more than just a gadget; it's a significant step toward a new quality of life and regaining independence. The device adapts to the individual needs of each patient, making it a valuable tool for effective rehabilitation.
ORIENT
