What should we consider when designing rehabilitation robots for the upper limb of the neurologically impaired

摘要

Rehabilitation robotics has the potential to significantly increase access to useful therapeutic upper limb exercise for those suffering from neurological impairment. In order to maximise the potential of such technology to promote motor learning/relearning clearly we must consider carefully how it is designed, and who should be engaged in its development. In this paper we present our perspective on some important design considerations and highlight relevant literature. Our findings have implications for the development and optimisation of rehabilitation robotic technology for improving upper limb function in the neurologically impaired.