Development of a Virtual Reality Simulator for an Intelligent Robotic System Used in Ankle Rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Virtual Reality Applications

Background:

• Traditional physiotherapy lacks engagement and can be labor-intensive.
• Stroke rehabilitation requires consistent and personalized patient exercise.
• Advancements in virtual reality (VR) offer new possibilities for interactive therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a VR simulator for intelligent robotic physiotherapy rehabilitation of the ankle in post-stroke patients.
• To develop a system that enhances patient motivation and reduces therapist workload.
• To create a rehabilitation system with low therapist dependence.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a VR environment with an intelligent robotic system.
• Utilization of gyroscope and accelerometer sensors to track foot movement in three axes.
• Employment of electromyography (EMG) sensors to measure muscle activity.
• Application of a machine learning module to analyze sensor data and adapt exercise levels.

Main Results:

• The VR simulator effectively interacts with human subjects through attached sensors.
• Muscle activity data (EMG) is collected to assess patient condition.
• Machine learning enables the creation of dynamic exercise levels and robotic control within the VR environment.
• The system demonstrates potential for reduced reliance on direct therapist supervision.

Conclusions:

• The developed VR simulator offers an innovative approach to ankle rehabilitation for stroke survivors.
• The intelligent system, driven by sensor data and machine learning, personalizes the rehabilitation process.
• This technology promises to improve patient engagement and therapeutic outcomes while optimizing therapist resources.