The Newman Lab

The MIT Wrist Robot, designed by Dustin Williams, [1] has demonstrated the effectiveness of robotic therapy in aiding the rehabilitation of stroke victims. In an effort to better understand the neurological processes involved in this therapy and evaluate its effectiveness a patented MRI compatible version of the wrist robot is under development so that therapy and brain imaging may be carried out simultaneously. [2]

The conceptualization, design and initial testing were conducted by Sarah Mendelowitz [3]. The MRI compatibility requirement necessitated a careful selection of materials and components. The actuation is accomplished with two standard electric motors, located outside the MRI room, which drive an MRI compatible hydraulic system, consisting of two pairs of custom designed and fabricated vane motors. These, in turn, actuate a handle grasped by the patient via a friction drive or geared differential. Initial testing has been conducted and the design is currently being modified and optimized.

Bibliography

[1] D. Williams, A Robot for Wrist Rehabilitation. MSME Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, June 2001

[2] Hogan et al. System and Method for Medical Imaging Utilizing a Robotic Device, and Robotic Device for use in Medical Imaging. United States Patent 5,794,621. August 18, 1998.

[3] S. Mendelowitz, Design of an MRI Compatible Robot for Wrist Rehabilitation. MSME Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, May 2005.