Laboratory Experiences with an Intelligent Robotic Crank for Arm Exercises

The evolution of the prototype for upper limb rehabilitation is presented. The proposed device consists of a robotic crank that measures the force applied to the knob and the acceleration and angular velocity of the crank in three directions during the arm action. By analyzing these motion data, the device can evaluate exercise quality and suggest different exercises to be performed, according to the planned arm mobility. The results reported in this paper demonstrate simplicity and effectiveness of the device by means of a test protocol for an exercise in which an individual is seated in front of the used testbed. The device is discussed as successfully capable of recording also small variations indicating differences in the arm behavior. Future plans will include more tests with a proper testing campaign of statistical significance while in the paper only the feasibility is discussed with just one volunteer.