Device for Cooperative Hand Function Trainings in Rehabilitation and Corresponding Method

Abstract

The invention is directed to a device to train bilateral, cooperative hand functions of a subject with housing means, handle means comprising two exchangeable handles (1), namely a left handle and a right handle, shaft means comprising multiple shafts and couplings for coupling said shafts (2), clutching means comprising variable slipping clutches (3), said slipping clutches being adjustable, first sensor means (4) for measuring the angular position of each of said handles (1), second sensor means (5) for measuring the torque which is applied by the subject onto each of said handles (1), locking means (6) for locking said shaft means (2) wherein both handles can be rotated independently when said locking means are locked, wherein said locking means are positioned between said second sensor means so that said second sensor means for the left handle can measure the torque applied onto the left handle and said second sensor means for the right handle can measure the torque applied onto the right handle when the locking means are locked and said second sensor means for the left handle said second sensor means for the right handle can measure the torque applied onto either of said handles when said locking means are unlocked and bearing means (8) for said shaft means, said bearing means being mounted to the housing of a device.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to the field of rehabilitation methods and apparatus for functional training such as stroke.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]On the basis of animal experiments (1-3) it is well established, also for human beings (for reviews see (4, 5)) that a training should be directed to a specific task to be re-learned. For example, in stroke subjects it should be directed to the specific functions which are most essential for daily living activities.[0003]Most upper limb rehabilitation devices are designed for the training of a single limb and their main goal is to train unilateral reach and grasp movements, a quite important task.[0004]The actually best established approach for hand rehabilitation after a stroke represents the “Constraint-induced movement therapy” in stroke subjects (6) for review see (7). This implies that the patients train the affected limb while the unaffected one is immobilized. Also most assistive devices are designed for...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a device for training people to do everyday tasks with their hands, like opening bottles or cans. The device is designed to make training more effective by mimicking the natural movements of daily life. It is made up of two parts that can be switched between cooperative and non-cooperative training, as well as unilateral training. The device also includes sensors to measure the resistance and torque applied by the person during training. Additionally, virtual reality can be used to make the training experience even more realistic. Overall, this invention helps people with various impairments improve their daily living skills.

Problems solved by technology

However, none of the existing training devices, are designed to provide bilateral, cooperative hand movements for training.

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