VR-based a novel active rehabilitation system for upper limbs

In this paper, VR-based a novel rehabilitation system has been developed to help mild stroke patients to restore their motor function of upper limbs. The system consists of haptic device (PHANTOM Omni), an advanced inertial sensor (MTx) and a computer. Subject engages in task-oriented interactions with object with his eyes looking at computer´s screen. We suppose one of the subject´s hands is intact, the other one is injured. Subject wears the glove installed inertial sensor on intact hand, and manipulates the stylus of haptic device with injured hand. A feasible force model has been created and force can be exerted on the stylus. Subject need coordinate his two hands to accomplish the task. The remotion of injured hand can be assisted through rotating the inertial sensor around some direction when assistance is needed. Subject is expected to facilitate cortical plasticity and to improve the agility and strength of manipulator´s hands by engaging cortical motor observation, planning and execution.