2025 | Book

Design of Soft–Rigid Devices for Rehabilitative and Assistive Robotics

Author: Mihai Dragusanu

Part of: Springer Professional "Business + Economics & Engineering + Technology" , Springer Professional "Engineering + Technology"

Table of Contents

About this book

This book describes a comprehensive research project in which different devices for rehabilitation, assistance, and haptic applications are designed and developed. The fil-rouge is the user-centered perspective, that has been employed in all the design and development phases, and the exploitation of soft robotics solutions allowing for a safe and comfortable interaction with the user. Extensive information concerning the design, the practical application and the assessment of various assistive devices for upper limb are included throughout the book, which also offers an up-to-date reference guide for dealing with future interdisciplinary research projects involving soft robotics and user-centered perspectives for enhancing robotic assistance capabilities

Frontmatter

Chapter 1. Introduction

Abstract

The technological advancements of recent years have lead to the revolution across various sectors, with robotic devices being increasingly adopted. These devices are now found in industries, agriculture, restaurants, public transport, homes, and many other aspects of human life. In this context, the medical and healthcare system has changed as well: the use of robotic devices has consolidated, becoming part of the so called assistive and rehabilitative technologies. Currently, two main factors are driving innovation in these technologies.

Mihai Dragusanu

Chapter 2. Hand/Wrist Exoskeleton

Abstract

For individuals with disabilities, technology plays a crucial role,since it offers the opportunity to have a life that in many cases is almost completely autonomous. Tools and assistive devices support ADLs, communication, education, and social integration. Today, numerous technologies in the medical and assistive fields enable people with disabilities to have a life that is almost completely “normal”. In this context, robotic rehabilitation aids have demonstrated great potential by combining the high-intensity, long-duration interventions necessary for regaining motor function with quantitative metrics to assess therapeutic outcomes [1].

Mihai Dragusanu

Chapter 3. Design of Haptic Devices for Rehabilitive/Assistive Applications

Abstract

Technology is becoming an integral part of our daily lives, with emerging innovations focused on replicating tactile, kinesthetic, and skin sensations gaining attention across various fields.

Mihai Dragusanu

Chapter 4. Assistive Robotic Gripper Devices

Abstract

Millions of people worldwide face significant limitations in their ability to reach for and manipulate objects, rendering them dependent on assistance for basic activities of daily living (ADLs). These limitations often stem from conditions affecting both the upper and lower limbs, including stroke, aging, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and other debilitating diseases. As a result, many individuals are unable to lead fully independent lives.

Mihai Dragusanu

Chapter 5. Conclusions

Abstract

This thesis presents the outcomes of research on rehabilitative and assistive robotics, with a focus on a rapidly growing and highly impactful area within the scientific community, i.e., human-robot interaction.

Mihai Dragusanu

Backmatter

Title: Design of Soft–Rigid Devices for Rehabilitative and Assistive Robotics
Author: Mihai Dragusanu
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland
Electronic ISBN: 978-3-031-84823-0
Print ISBN: 978-3-031-84822-3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-84823-0