“Movement-mirroring” arm exoskeleton in rehabilitation

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this article is to develop the prototype of arm exoskeleton for the treatment of upper limb movement activity after intracerebral hemorrhage or heart attack. Materials and methods: “Movement-mirroring” function was introduced with the help of the manipulating device consisting of the device for wireless data transfer, Arduino controller, exoskeleton servomotors, 3 accelerometers GY-85 and software, which detects angles. Results: We developed the prototype of the rehabilitation device, which was tested by 6 volunteers. Arduino controller allowed us to reduce the time needed for servomotor response up to 400 msec. Conclusion: If only one arm is affected as a result of hemiparesis or hemiplegia, then the rehabilitation therapy can be conducted in accordance with the program stated or by copying the movements of a healthy limb by means of 'movement-mirroring' function.