Medical Devices and Assistive Technologies

Autonomic dysreflexia monitoring for persons with SCI

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a common secondary health complication occurring in individuals with spinal cord injuries above T6. If left untreated AD can result in dangerously elevated blood pressure leading to cerebral hemorrhage or other medical issues. We have developed a physiological-based telemetry system to detect AD while persons with SCI conduct typical activities of daily living. Continuously monitoring for AD episodes enables new tetraplegics to better recognize their specific AD symptoms for improved preventative health management as well as notify caregivers. AD monitoring is provided through noninvasive physiological sensors and the development of machine learning model to distinguish AD from normal functioning and environmental changes. 

WristSense - 3D printed wrist orthosis 

Orthotic devices help maintain the position of joints throughout the body. Through the use of rapid prototyping, orthoses can be fabricated by anyone where they have access to a 3D printer. The WristSense project focuses on the development of an inexpensive wrist orthosis for individuals who lack the ability to flex their wrists. We are looking at the use of different print configurations and materials to produce lightweight, durable, and comfortable wrist braces. Mechatronics can be incorporated to provide greater functionality for those, such as tetraplegics, with limited manual dexterity. 

Prehensile Technologies 

Human-Technology Interaction (HTI) 

Assistive robotics control  

Assistive or collaborative robots can assist individuals with disabilities in multiple ways (e.g. manipulation, conveyance, telepresence) in a variety of real-world environments. We are interested in using AI and multisensory feedback to more effectively control robotic functions. Methods of human-in-the-loop operation involve speech and gesture recognition and adaptive controllers. 

Multisensory substitution for BVI 

It is challenging for blind or visually impaired people to interpret visual scientific data that is commonly generated during STEM activities. Multimodal sensory substitution enables blind or visually impaired. We have developed a multimodal sensory substitution system, which substitutes visual information with a combination of vibrotactile, auditory and haptic sensory modalities to independently perceive digital images. This system is more accurate and technically more efficient than printing tactile printouts of images. 

Gesture recognition for tetraplegic users