Enhanced Hand Rehabilitation using a Haptic Interface

Abstract

This paper proposes a hand rehabilitation system based on a 1-DOF haptic handle. The system is designed to improve hand strength and movement and provides haptic feedback incorporating visual games. A haptic interface enhances the clinical effect and makes it more fun compared to previous systems. Various haptic effects can be programmed corresponding to the game scenario. Though our target consumers are stroke patients, the elderly can also practice hand functions of ADL to develop cognitive ability and muscular strength.