MIRAD - An integrated Methodology to bring Intelligent Robotic Assistive Devices to the user.

There is a growing need for mechatronic devices that dynamically interact with humans, such as orthoses, prostheses, rehabilitation or training equipment, and tele-operation and assistive devices for industry. User satisfaction of existing devices is currently limited, because many knowledge domains are involved: mechatronics, biomechanical knowledge on human motion models, rehabilitation knowledge, and psychological aspects. Therefore the MIRAD project brings together a unique consortium of experts from different fields to develop a universal integrated methodology to bring intelligent robotic assistive devices to the users. To test our methodology, we additionally focus on a challenging application in the health care sector: a bilateral intelligent active lower-limb exoskeleton to assist persons suffering from functional weakness. The purpose of the project is not to develop a product that can be used in clinical practice by the end of the project. Follow-up R&D projects will be needed for that purpose. Apart from health care, the project targets valorization of the developed methodologies and technologies in various industrial sectors and market segments, for example sports, space, nuclear, entertainment and defense.

Keywords:Robot assistance, Assistive devices, Rehabilitation, Exoskeleton

Disciplines:Laboratory medicine, Palliative care and end-of-life care, Regenerative medicine, Other basic sciences, Other health sciences, Nursing, Other paramedical sciences, Other translational sciences, Other medical and health sciences