Cognitive and Cybernetics based Human Adaptive Mechatronics System in Gait Rehabilitation Therapy

Human adaptive mechatronics [HAM] is an intelligent form of man machine interface system. HAM system adapts itself to user ability to carry out their routine task under constrained environments and also improves the functional motor skill. It assists the elderly person suffering from gait disorder to achieve enhanced ability in doing daily task by their own. The HAM system assisting the elderly or disabled person will adapt to the user gait phase and consume low metabolic energy. With the short fall of availability of nursing assistant in near future the HAM systems becomes ineluctable. Objective of this research is to synthesize the current knowledge about HAM and various human factors in the application of adaptive mechatronics system used for restoring muscle function with supporting device in rehabilitation therapy. In depth analysis on related articles orthotic assisting system and technologies like medical electronics, cybernetics, robotic knee assistive devices used in rehabilitation therapy are reviewed along with its merits and limitations. This article presents an overview of fundamental technologies used for adaptive rehabilitation therapy, suggesting the need to examine this information in a comprehensive review for designing human adaptive mechatronics system.