Systems and methods for assessing and training wrist joint proprioceptive function

US11510840B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• Regents of the University of Minnesota · US
• Nanyang Technological University · SG
• Italian Institute of Technology
• University of Genoa · IT

Inventors

• Lorenzo Masia · Singapore, SG
• Juergen Konczak · Minneapolis, US
• Giulio Sandini · Genova, IT
• Leonardo Cappello · Arezzo, IT

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 14, 2020
• Grant date: Nov 29, 2022
• Expiry date: Jan 28, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61H2201/5079
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A comprehensive system for treatment of wrist joint proprioception. The system includes a manipulandum unit and a controller. The unit includes a base, a handle, a linkage assembly, and motors. The base supports a subject's forearm, and the handle is gripped by the palm. The linkage assembly connects the handle to the base, and establishes three DOFs. The motors are operatively connected to the linkage assembly. The controller is programmed to actuate, and receive feedback information from, each of the plurality of motors. Further, the controller is programmed to perform wrist proprioception assessment operations by actuating the plurality of motors to effectuate movement of the handle relative to the base in a prescribed manner indicative of position motion sense acuity as an objective measure of wrist proprioception functioning. The controller is optionally further programmed to perform rehabilitation training via controlled operation of the unit and a virtually reality environment.