ReHub Robot Technology and Science at the Service of the Arts – Chronicle

There was a time when transferring the skills of an engineer to a rehab gym seemed almost a fad. But in the age of robotics and advanced technology, it has become a reality. The Re-Hub project, presented yesterday at Don Gnocchi in Florence, brings together innovative medical science solutions to support patients who need limb recovery. The project is being implemented with the University of Florence and the Cr Firenze Foundation. In the lab, new rehabilitation equipment is born that allows for innovative technologies and personalized treatment pathways for patients. All these donations will strengthen the joint research laboratory between Don Gnocchi and the University of Florentine (Departments of Industrial Engineering and Informatics). The Cr Firenze Foundation has supported five biennial research grants that will go to the many researchers who will work in the laboratory.

It will be up to them to continue the technologies and devices to reach robot-assisted rehabilitation aimed at restoring neurocognitive and motor functions. The presentation was attended by Don Gnocchi’s Scientific Director, Sandro Sorbi, General Director of the Cr Firenze Foundation, Gabriel Gouri, and Vice President for Technology Transfer at the University of Florence, Marco Perini, with Professor of Robotics. , Benedetto Allotta. A 3D scanner and printer were purchased that are used to obtain patient anatomical data and to create custom robotic aids.

Using motion sensors, it will be possible to detect movements of the hands, limbs and trunk to assess patients’ ability and progress in rehabilitation. Among the equipment, there are also augmented reality glasses that allow creating virtual scenarios in which the patient learns to perform movements, control the exoskeleton, and a neuroimaging system that detects brain activity by means of spectroscopy. The rehabilitation program has another undoubted advantage: a limited cost per patient and allows you to perform exercises even at home without the need for hospitalization and remote control. Being at home, in times of virus infection, is definitely an advantage in overcoming any other problem and risks related to mixing.

Fabrizio Morviducci