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[Design of a force sensor to evaluate the grasping movement]
F Etcharry-Bouyx1, A Merrien, P Allain
1Unité de neuropsychologie, université d'Angers, France.
Neurophysiologie Clinique = Clinical Neurophysiology
|March 31, 2000
Summary
This study introduces a novel force sensor designed to objectively measure grasping phenomena, a type of abnormal motor behavior following cerebral lesions. The device aids in quantifying grasp force and drag force for better clinical assessment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
- Medical instrumentation
Background:
- Grasping phenomena are abnormal motor behaviors observed after cerebral lesions.
- These phenomena involve a stereotyped, forced hand closure in response to specific stimuli.
- Existing methods for evaluating grasping phenomena lack objective force measurement.
Observation:
- The study observed the need for a quantitative method to assess the force involved in grasping phenomena.
- The development focused on a sensor capable of measuring both grasp force and drag force.
- Clinical application in two patients demonstrated the sensor's utility.
Findings:
- A novel force sensor was developed to evaluate grasping phenomena.
- The sensor measures the force of grasping in relation to the force of dragging.
- The device's characteristics and clinical application were presented.
Implications:
- This tool offers objective quantification of abnormal motor behaviors.
- The force sensor can aid in diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to cerebral lesions.
- Improved assessment of grasping phenomena may lead to better therapeutic strategies.