Kinematics and design of a portable and wearable exoskeleton for hand rehabilitation

Abstract

We present the kinematic design and actuation mechanics of a wearable exoskeleton for hand rehabilitation of post-stroke. Our design method is focused on achieving maximum safety, comfort and reliability in the interaction, and allowing different users to wear the device with no manual regulations. In particular, we propose a kinematic and actuation solution for the index finger flexion/extension, which leaves full movement freedom on the abduction-adduction plane. This paper presents a detailed kineto-static analysis of the system and a first prototype of the device.