710218Basic Prototype Robotic Manipulator for RehabilitationClosedGRD Proof of ConceptInnovate UKRehabilitation services are being increasingly stretched as a result of stroke. The UK Stroke Association published data shows that over 130,000 people suffer stroke each year in the UK with 45,000 requiring motor skill rehabilitation. In 2009 stroke cost the UK economy £8.9 billion with £2.8 billion used for post hospitalisation care activities. Similar trends are seen in the rest of the world. Various research studies have identified potential benefits from using robotic devices to deliver motor skill rehabilitation both for treatment effectiveness but also for quantitative patient feedback and clinician diagnosis at each stage of recovery. Also their multiple parallel use can dramatically improve cost effectiveness of the physiotherapists. This field is a new and emerging application for technology and presents significant opportunities for innovative solutions. The aim of this project is to prepare a prototype device based on our existing Dexter telemanipulator for use in preliminary clinical trials to be done by a leading European rehabilitation organisation. Authoritative experimental work in this area has been performed by our partner and other institutes around the world. However attempts to develop and market product version of the experimental devices have always lacked crucial elements conducive to full patient rehabilitation. Our prototype device will make use of the Dexter core ‘dexterous manipulator’ technology which has been intrinsically designed and used with direct human interaction for more than 15 years and will be enhanced by innovative hardware and software modifications to optimise it for the rehabilitation application. The trials to be done at Adelante will involve evaluation of the effectiveness of Technology supported Task Oriented Arm Training which has not been fully possible before Dexter. A successful outcome from the trials will lead to a strong business case for significant product development.