Research
My Research Work focused on Medical & Biomedical engineering and computer software, driving innovation to modern development challenges.
Development of a Rehabilitation Control Program for a Motorized Glove Enabling Finger Movement in Sync with the User's Intent
This study aimed to develop a motorized glove rehabilitation system for hemiplegic stroke patients, capable of detecting a user's intended finger movement and supporting early upper limb functional recovery by enabling assistive motion in sync with their effort.
Authors
Tatsuya Nakagomi, A.P. Shunji Moromugi
Abstract
This study presents the development of a motorized rehabilitation glove system designed to support hand function recovery for hemiplegic stroke patients by synchronizing assistive finger movements with the user’s voluntary intent. Recognizing the critical role of early and intent-driven rehabilitation in promoting neuroplasticity, the system integrates a lightweight glove with a muscle contraction sensor and a capacitive displacement sensor to detect user-initiated effort and trigger corresponding extension movements of the thumb, index finger, and the remaining three fingers. A control program was developed to coordinate sensor input and actuator response, along with a user-friendly interface for therapists. Evaluation experiments with healthy subjects demonstrated average motion recognition rates of 69%, 78%, and 81% at muscle activity levels of 10%, 30%, and 50%, respectively, confirming the system’s ability to operate in sync with user intent. Feedback from rehabilitation specialists highlighted the system’s clinical potential while suggesting improvements in mechanical design and control thresholds. Overall, this system represents a promising approach to enhance upper limb recovery through personalized, effort-based rehabilitation training.