Exercise device for upper-extremity sensory-motor capability augmentation based on magneto-rheological fluid actuator

Resistance exercise has been widely reported to have positive rehabilitation effects for patients with neuromuscular and orthopaedic disorders. This paper presents the design of a versatile rehabilitation device in the form of a rotation joint mounted on the adjustable arm support that provides a controlled passive resistance during strength training of hand muscles. The resistance is supplied by a rotational magnetorheological actuator controlled with regards to the force feedback information. The device provides both isometric and isokinetic strength training and is reconfigurable for different usage conditions. The experimental evaluation results show that the usage of magnetorheological actuator is advantageous to the electrical motors in the cases of passive resistance based exercise.