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The field of Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) is rapidly evolving, blurring the lines between human and machine capabilities. Recent advances in computer science, computer vision, artificial intelligence, robotics, brain-computer interfaces, neural engineering, and cognitive science have profoundly transformed HRI. As we stand on the threshold of a new era characterized by increasingly sophisticated human-machine interactions, it becomes imperative to explore the emerging frontiers of this dynamic field. Robots are now entering homes, workplaces, and even battlefields, necessitating a deeper understanding of effective, safe, and ethical human-robot interaction. This book delves into cutting-edge research shaping the future of HRI, representing a collective effort to navigate uncharted territories. Through diverse chapters authored by leading experts, it offers a comprehensive exploration of the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in HRI. By examining technical, engineering, and methodological challenges, this volume brings together perspectives from researchers, engineers, and designers to provide a comprehensive view of this dynamic field. Aiming to showcase groundbreaking research and spark interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration, this book is a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, students, and anyone interested in the future of human-robot collaboration. Whether you are a seasoned roboticist, a curious student, or simply interested in future technology, this book offers insights and knowledge to navigate the complex world of human-robot interaction. Join us on this journey of discovery as we navigate the emerging frontiers of human-robot interaction together.

This book presents cutting-edge research and developments in the broad field of medical, biological engineering and computing. It gathers the second volume of the joint proceedings of the Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing (MEDICON) and the International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering (CMBEBIH), which were held together on September 14-16, 2023, in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Contributions report on innovative research and practices in molecular biology, tissue engineering and biotechnologies, covering not only medical but also industrial applications. Further, they describe advances in health technologies and medical devices, telemedicine, and robotic applications in clinical medicine and rehabilitation.

This book presents a new framework to improve the integration of exoskeletons in hemiparetic patients. The idea is to reduce potentially damaging compensatory strategies in the non-paretic leg, by ensuring a proper technology embodiment of the robotic exoskeletons in the nervous system. Upon reviewing control strategies for partial robotic exoskeletons applied to human gait, the book introduces robotic exoskeletons control algorithms, which were developed with the intention to promote gait symmetry by assisting the affected limb of hemiparetic patients according to the movement of the non-paretic leg. This new paradigm aimed at promoting the device's embodiment was expected to counteract the compensation mechanisms, which would become unnecessary and thus disappear. The control strategy relies on the gait phase estimation of the sound leg calculated using an adaptive frequency oscillator and was evaluated on post-stroke patients affected by hemiparetic gait, and the results are described in this book. All in all, this book offers a timely snapshot on control strategies for post-stroke robotic gait assistance. It also presents new findings concerning the role of robotic controllers in the embodiment of such devices, and their implications for new assistance paradigms for people with neurological gait disorders.

This Handbook serves as an authoritative reference book in the field of Neuroengineering. Neuroengineering is a very exciting field that is rapidly getting established as core subject matter for research and education. The Neuroengineering field has also produced an impressive array of industry products and clinical applications. It also serves as a reference book for graduate students, research scholars and teachers. Selected sections or a compendium of chapters may be used as “reference book” for a one or two semester graduate course in Biomedical Engineering. Some academicians will construct a “textbook” out of selected sections or chapters. The Handbook is also meant as a state-of-the-art volume for researchers. Due to its comprehensive coverage, researchers in one field covered by a certain section of the Handbook would find other sections valuable sources of cross-reference for information and fertilization of interdisciplinary ideas. Industry researchers as well as clinicians using neurotechnologies will find the Handbook a single source for foundation and state-of-the-art applications in the field of Neuroengineering. Regulatory agencies, entrepreneurs, investors and legal experts can use the Handbook as a reference for their professional work as well.​

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Facial Plastic Surgery: Medical and Biomedical Engineering and Science Concepts provides an extensive overview of the most recent technological advancements in facial plastic and reconstructive surgeries and head and neck surgery through a thorough review of the literature in biomedical engineering, technology, and medicine. Coverage includes the most recent engineering and computing techniques, such as robotics, biomechanics, artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), and optimization, as well as the medical and surgical aspects of medical and scientific methods, surgical and non-surgical procedure types, complications, patient care, and psychological factors. This book will be a valuable introduction to concepts and advances for otorhinolaryngology, biomedical researchers, academics, and students.

This volume contains the papers of the 8th International Workshop on Medical and Service Robots (MESROB) which was held in Craiova, Romania, on June 7-10, 2023. The main topics include: design of medical devices, kinematics and dynamics for medical robotics, exoskeletons and prostheses, anthropomorphic hands, therapeutic robots and rehabilitation, cognitive robots, humanoid and service robots, assistive robots and elderly assistance, surgical robots, human-robot interfaces, haptic devices, medical treatments, medical lasers, and surgical planning and navigation. The contributions, which were selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, highlight numerous exciting ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster multidisciplinary collaboration among different specialists, demonstrating that medical and service robotics will drive the technological and societal change in the coming decades.

This book gathers selected peer-reviewed contributions to the 1st European Congress on Biomedical and Veterinary Engineering, BioMedVetMech 2022, held on October 1–3, 2022, in Zagreb, Croatia. It offers a timely snapshot of research findings and advances technologies in the area of biomechanics, rehabilitation and surgery. It covers applications of brain-computer interface, virtual reality and functional electrical stimulation, among others.

This book reports on advanced topics in the areas of wearable robotics research and practice. It focuses on new technologies, including neural interfaces, soft wearable robots, sensors and actuators technologies, discussing industrially and medically-relevant issues, as well as legal and ethical aspects. It covers exemplary case studies highlighting challenges related to the implementation of wearable robots for different purposes, and describing advanced solutions. Based on the 5th International Symposium on Wearable Robotics, WeRob2020, and on WearRacon Europe 2020, which were both held online on October 13-16, 2020, the book addresses a large audience of academics and professionals working in for the government, in the industry, and in medical centers, as well as end-users alike. By merging together engineering, medical, ethical and industrial perspectives, it offers a multidisciplinary, timely snapshot of the field of wearable technologies.

Stroke and spinal cord injury often result in paralysis with serious negative consequences to the independence and quality of life of those who sustain them. For these individuals, rehabilitation provides the means to regain lost function. Rehabilitation following neurological injuries has undergone revolutionary changes, enriched by neuroplasticity. Neuroplastic-based interventions enhance the efficacy and continue to guide the development of new rehabilitation strategies. This book presents three important technology-based rehabilitation interventions that follow the concepts of neuroplasticity. The book also discusses clinical results related to their efficacy. These interventions are: functional electrical stimulation therapy, which produces coordinated muscle contractions allowing people with paralysis to perform functional movements with rich sensory feedback; robot-assisted therapy, which uses robots to assist, resist, and guide movements with increased intensity while also reducing the physical burden on therapists; and brain–computer interfaces, which make it possible to verify the presence of motor-related brain activity during rehabilitation. Further, the book presents the combined use of these three technologies to illustrate some of the emerging approaches to the neurorehabilitation of voluntary movement. The authors share their practical experiences obtained during the development and clinical testing of functional electrical stimulation therapy controlled by a brain–computer interface as an intervention to restore reaching and grasping.

This book broadly covers a scope of the latest advances for the development of artificial intelligence systems and their applications in various fields from medicine and technology to education. The proceedings comprise refereed papers presented at the Fifth International Conference of Artificial Intelligence, Medical Engineering, and Education (AIMEE2021), which took place at the Mechanical Engineering Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia, on 1–3 October 2021. Given the rapid development of artificial intelligence systems, the book emphasizes the need for the intensification of training of a growing number of relevant specialists, in particular, in medical engineering to increase the effectiveness of medical diagnosing and treatment. In digital artificial intelligence systems, scientists endeavour to reproduce the innate intellectual abilities of humans and other organisms, and the in-depth study of genetic systems and inherited biological processes canprovide new approaches to create more and more effective artificial intelligence methods. Topics of the included papers concern thematic materials in the following spheres: mathematics and biomathematics; medical approaches; technological and educational approaches. The book is a compilation of cutting-edge research papers in the field, covering a comprehensive range of subjects that are relevant to business managers and engineering professionals alike. The breadth and depth of these proceedings make them an excellent resource for asset management practitioners, researchers, and academics, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students who are interested in artificial intelligence, bioinformatics systems, also their expanding applications. The intended readership includes specialists, students, and other circles of readers who would like to know where artificial intelligence systems can be applied in the future with great benefit.

This book presents cutting-edge research and developments in the field of Biomedical Engineering. It describes both fundamental and clinically-oriented findings, highlighting advantages and challenges of innovative methods and technologies, such as artificial intelligence, wearable devices and neuroengineering, important issues related to health technology management and human factors in health, and new findings in biomechanical analysis and modeling. Gathering the proceedings of the XXVII Brazilian Congress on Biomedical Engineering, CBEB 2020, held on October 26-30, 2020, in Vitória, Brazil, and promoted by the Brazilian Society of Biomedical Engineering – SBEB, this book gives emphasis to research and developments carried out by Brazilian scientists, institutions and professionals. It offers an extensive overview on new trends and clinical implementation of technologies, and it is intended to foster communication and collaboration between medical scientists, engineers, and researchers inside and outside the country.

Stroke and spinal cord injury often result in paralysis with serious negative consequences to the independence and quality of life of those who sustain them. For these individuals, rehabilitation provides the means to regain lost function. Rehabilitation following neurological injuries has undergone revolutionary changes, enriched by neuroplasticity. Neuroplastic-based interventions enhance the efficacy and continue to guide the development of new rehabilitation strategies. This book presents three important technology-based rehabilitation interventions that follow the concepts of neuroplasticity. The book also discusses clinical results related to their efficacy. These interventions are: functional electrical stimulation therapy, which produces coordinated muscle contractions allowing people with paralysis to perform functional movements with rich sensory feedback; robot-assisted therapy, which uses robots to assist, resist, and guide movements with increased intensity while also reducing the physical burden on therapists; and brain–computer interfaces, which make it possible to verify the presence of motor-related brain activity during rehabilitation. Further, the book presents the combined use of these three technologies to illustrate some of the emerging approaches to the neurorehabilitation of voluntary movement. The authors share their practical experiences obtained during the development and clinical testing of functional electrical stimulation therapy controlled by a brain–computer interface as an intervention to restore reaching and grasping.

The concepts represented in this textbook are explored for the first time in assistive and rehabilitation robotics, which is the combination of physical, cognitive, and social human-robot interaction to empower gait rehabilitation and assist human mobility. The aim is to consolidate the methodologies, modules, and technologies implemented in lower-limb exoskeletons, smart walkers, and social robots when human gait assistance and rehabilitation are the primary targets. This book presents the combination of emergent technologies in healthcare applications and robotics science, such as soft robotics, force control, novel sensing methods, brain-computer interfaces, serious games, automatic learning, and motion planning. From the clinical perspective, case studies are presented for testing and evaluating how those robots interact with humans, analyzing acceptance, perception, biomechanics factors, and physiological mechanisms of recovery during the robotic assistance or therapy. Interfacing Humans and Robots for Gait Assistance and Rehabilitation will enable undergraduate and graduate students of biomedical engineering, rehabilitation engineering, robotics, and health sciences to understand the clinical needs, technology, and science of human-robot interaction behind robotic devices for rehabilitation, and the evidence and implications related to the implementation of those devices in actual therapy and daily life applications.

This book presents cutting-edge research and developments in the field of medical and biological engineering, which a special emphasis on activities carried out in the Asian-Pacific region. Gathering the proceedings of the 11th Asian-Pacific Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering, organized in Japan and held online on May 25-27, 2020, the book both fundamental research and clinical applications relating to medical instrumentations, bioimaging, bioinformatics and computational biomedicine, AI and data science in healthcare, as well as regenerative medicine and rehabilitation. It aims at informing on new trends, challenges and solutions, and fosters communication and collaboration between medical scientists, engineers, and researchers dealing with cutting-edge themes in broad field of biomedical and clinical engineering.

This book explores the pivotal role played by technology over the past decade in advancing global public health and health care. At present, the global community faces unprecedented healthcare challenges fueled by an aging population, rising rates of chronic disease, and persistent health disparities. New technologies and advancements have the potential to extend the reach of health professionals while improving quality and efficiency of service delivery and reducing costs within the public and the private health systems. The chapters highlight the barriers faced by the global healthcare workforce in using technology to promote health and human rights of communities:Role of Digital Health, mHealth, and Low-Cost Technologies in Advancing Universal Health Coverage in Emerging EconomiesTelehealth and Homecare AgenciesTechnology and the Practice of Health Education in Conflict ZonesThe Worldwide Digital Divide and Access to Healthcare TechnologyTechnology for Creating Better Professional Teams to Strengthen Healthcare SystemsGlobal Public Health Disaster Management and TechnologyAs a resource on the evolution of technology as a valuable and integral component in the promotion and practice of public health and health care, with a focus on SDG 3 targets, Technology and Global Public Health should engage students, instructors, practitioners, and other professionals interested in public health, universal health care, health technology, digital health, and health equity.Dr. Murthy has been a respected leader and mentor on scientific health-related matters within the UN system for many years. Her book develops a theoretical system connecting concepts that have coined global public health with the rapid development of technology, all with the focus to achieve Sustainable Development Goal number three, within the time frame set by World Leaders. - Henry L. Mac-Donald, Former Permanent Representative of Suriname to the United Nations

Wearable Robotics: Systems and Applications provides a comprehensive overview of the entire field of wearable robotics, including active orthotics (exoskeleton) and active prosthetics for the upper and lower limb and full body. In its two major sections, wearable robotics systems are described from both engineering perspectives and their application in medicine and industry. Systems and applications at various levels of the development cycle are presented, including those that are still under active research and development, systems that are under preliminary or full clinical trials, and those in commercialized products. This book is a great resource for anyone working in this field, including researchers, industry professionals and those who want to use it as a teaching mechanism. - Provides a comprehensive overview of the entire field, with both engineering and medical perspectives - Helps readers quickly and efficiently design and develop wearable robotics for healthcare applications

This book addresses cutting-edge topics in robotics and related technologies for rehabilitation, covering basic concepts and providing the reader with the information they need to solve various practical problems. Intended as a reference guide to the application of robotics in rehabilitation, it covers e.g. musculoskeletal modelling, gait analysis, biomechanics, robotics modelling and simulation, sensors, wearable devices, and the Internet of Medical Things.

This book provides a comprehensive review of recent developments in the field of motor neuroprosthetics and brain-machine interfaces. Chapters in this book are provided by leading experts in the field and include topics such as the design and control of multidimensional prosthetics and exoskeletons, deep brain stimulation, functional electrical stimulation, deep learning for brain machine interfaces, biofeedback, and cognitive intent for adaptation of motor prostheses. This book is a great resource for undergraduate and graduate students, researchers, engineers from related disciplines, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the latest progress in the field of motor neuroprostheses.

Electronic Assistive Technology (EAT) is a subset of a wider range of products and services known as Assistive Technology (AT). AT is designed to support and enable people with disabilities, either acquired or congenital, to participate in activities with greater independence and safety. With a global aging population, it has an important role to play in enabling and supporting those with disability and their carers. Handbook of Electronic Assistive Technology discusses a range of commonly available or emerging electronic assistive technologies. It provides historical background, advice when assessing for these devices and references different models of provision. It includes both medical and engineering aspects of provision. It is anticipated that the book will support students, trainees, and newly qualified Assistive Technology Practitioners to develop their understanding of the field, by considering the variables that could potentially influence the decision-making process when assessing for and providing this equipment. It also provides a reference point for those already practicing in this field and offers coverage of a broader range of technologies than clinicians may be exposed to, in their daily work This is the first reference book to focus on a comprehensive set of electronic assistive technologies and discuss their clinical application. - Provides comprehensive coverage of electronic assistive devices - Gives an overview of physical and cognitive pathologies and approaches for utilizing electronic assistive devices for individuals affected by these pathologies - Covers essentials for assistive technology practitioners, human factors and technologies

This volume presents the proceedings of the Brazilian Congress on Biomedical Engineering (CBEB 2018). The conference was organised by the Brazilian Society on Biomedical Engineering (SBEB) and held in Armação de Buzios, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 21-25 October, 2018. Topics of the proceedings include these 11 tracks: • Bioengineering • Biomaterials, Tissue Engineering and Artificial Organs • Biomechanics and Rehabilitation • Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation • Biomedical Robotics, Assistive Technologies and Health Informatics • Clinical Engineering and Health Technology Assessment • Metrology, Standardization, Testing and Quality in Health • Biomedical Signal and Image Processing • Neural Engineering • Special Topics • Systems and Technologies for Therapy and Diagnosis

Intelligent Biomechatronics in Neurorehabilitation presents global research and advancements in intelligent biomechatronics and its applications in neurorehabilitation. The book covers our current understanding of coding mechanisms in the nervous system, from the cellular level, to the system level in the design of biological and robotic interfaces. Developed biomechatronic systems are introduced as successful examples to illustrate the fundamental engineering principles in the design. The third part of the book covers the clinical performance of biomechatronic systems in trial studies. Finally, the book introduces achievements in the field and discusses commercialization and clinical challenges. As the aging population continues to grow, healthcare providers are faced with the challenge of developing long-term rehabilitation for neurological disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Intelligent biomechatronics provide a seamless interface and real-time interactions with a biological system and the external environment, making them key to automation services. - Written by international experts in the rehabilitation and bioinstrumentation industries - Covers the current understanding of nervous system coding mechanisms, which are the basis for biological and robotic interfaces - Demonstrates and discusses robotic rehabilitation effectiveness and automatic evaluation

The book reports on advanced topics in the areas of wearable robotics research and practice. It focuses on new technologies, including neural interfaces, soft wearable robots, sensors and actuators technologies, and discusses important regulatory challenges, as well as clinical and ethical issues. Based on the 4th International Symposium on Wearable Robotics, WeRob2018, held October 16-20, 2018, in Pisa, Italy, the book addresses a large audience of academics and professionals working in government, industry, and medical centers, and end-users alike. It provides them with specialized information and with a source of inspiration for new ideas and collaborations. It discusses exemplary case studies highlighting practical challenges related to the implementation of wearable robots in a number of fields. One of the focus is on clinical applications, which was encouraged by the colocation of WeRob2018 with the International Conference on Neurorehabilitation, INCR2018. Additional topics include space applications and assistive technologies in the industry. The book merges together the engineering, medical, ethical and political perspectives, thus offering a multidisciplinary, timely snapshot of the field of wearable technologies.

This book contains the selected papers of the Sixth International Workshop on Medical and Service Robots (MESROB 2018), held in Cassino, Italy, in 2018. The main topics of the workshop include: design of medical devices, kinematics and dynamics for medical robotics, exoskeletons and prostheses, anthropomorphic hands, therapeutic robots and rehabilitation, cognitive robots, humanoid and service robots, assistive robots and elderly assistance, surgical robots, human-robot interfaces, haptic devices, and medical treatments.

This book (vol. 2) presents the proceedings of the IUPESM World Congress on Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics, a triennially organized joint meeting of medical physicists, biomedical engineers and adjoining health care professionals. Besides the purely scientific and technological topics, the 2018 Congress will also focus on other aspects of professional involvement in health care, such as education and training, accreditation and certification, health technology assessment and patient safety. The IUPESM meeting is an important forum for medical physicists and biomedical engineers in medicine and healthcare learn and share knowledge, and discuss the latest research outcomes and technological advancements as well as new ideas in both medical physics and biomedical engineering field.

This volume contains the proceedings of the 26th International Conference on Robotics in Alpe-Adria-Danube Region, RAAD 2017, held at the Polytechnic University of Turin, Italy, from June 21-23, 2017. The conference brought together academic and industrial researchers in robotics from 30 countries, the majority of them affiliated to the Alpe-Adria-Danube Region, and their worldwide partners. RAAD 2017 covered all major areas of R&D and innovation in robotics, including the latest research trends. The book provides an overview on the advances in service and industrial robotics. The topics are presented in a sequence starting from the classical robotic subjects, such as kinematics, dynamics, structures, control, and ending with the newest topics, like human-robot interaction and biomedical applications. Researchers involved in the robotic field will find this an extraordinary and up-to-date perspective on the state of the art in this area.

Rehabilitation Robotics gives an introduction and overview of all areas of rehabilitation robotics, perfect for anyone new to the field. It also summarizes available robot technologies and their application to different pathologies for skilled researchers and clinicians. The editors have been involved in the development and application of robotic devices for neurorehabilitation for more than 15 years. This experience using several commercial devices for robotic rehabilitation has enabled them to develop the know-how and expertise necessary to guide those seeking comprehensive understanding of this topic. Each chapter is written by an expert in the respective field, pulling in perspectives from both engineers and clinicians to present a multi-disciplinary view. The book targets the implementation of efficient robot strategies to facilitate the re-acquisition of motor skills. This technology incorporates the outcomes of behavioral studies on motor learning and its neural correlates into the design, implementation and validation of robot agents that behave as'optimal'trainers, efficiently exploiting the structure and plasticity of the human sensorimotor systems. In this context, human-robot interaction plays a paramount role, at both the physical and cognitive level, toward achieving a symbiotic interaction where the human body and the robot can benefit from each other's dynamics. - Provides a comprehensive review of recent developments in the area of rehabilitation robotics - Includes information on both therapeutic and assistive robots - Focuses on the state-of-the-art and representative advancements in the design, control, analysis, implementation and validation of rehabilitation robotic systems

This book is the first attempt at bringing together a volume of work from a range of professionals with an interest in spasticity. The framework for the definition was developed in part by the authors contributing chapters that make up this volume. The book represents the current'state-of-the-art'regarding definition, measurement, pathophysiology (all state-of-the-art summaries) and simultaneously gives clinicians guidance on clinical management. This work combines coverage of both spasticity and contractures as these two phenomena are often closely interrelated. Current researchers do not differentiate between these individual impairments and, as such, there is significant confusion in the literature. This book discusses both conditions and then separates them into their respective components. If these two conditions co-exist (which is generally the case), then the management of a patient will need to be customized to individual clinical presentation. The clinical sections of the book are all written by currently practicing, and research active, clinicians, and the earlier chapters are written by researchers currently working on spasticity. In summary, this book: Provides information that is clinically relevant and strongly researched Includes clinical studies covering both spasticity and contractures, which is unique Presents editors and contributors that are world-class experts Takes a cookbook approach to measurements in clinical studies and research Contains extensive references that are included at the end of each chapter

This volume presents the proceedings of ICIBEL 2017, organized by the Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME) under Innovative Technology Research Cluster, University of Malaya. It was held in George Town, Penang, Malaysia, from 10-13 December 2017.The ICIBEL 2017 conference promotes the latest research and developments related to the integration of the Engineering technology in medical fields and life sciences. This includes the latest innovations, research trends and concerns, challenges and adopted solution in the field of medical engineering and life sciences.

Advanced Rehabilitative Technology: Neural Interfaces and Devices teaches readers how to acquire and process bio-signals using biosensors and acquisition devices, how to identify the human movement intention and decode the brain signal, how to design physiological and musculoskeletal models and establish the neural interfaces, and how to develop neural devices and control them efficiently using biological signals. The book takes a multidisciplinary theme between the engineering and medical field, including sections on neuromuscular/brain signal processing, human motion and intention recognition, biomechanics modelling and interfaces, and neural devices and control for rehabilitation. Each chapter goes through a detailed description of the bio-mechatronic systems used and then presents implementation and testing tactics. In addition, it details new neural interfaces and devices, some of which have never been published before in any journals or conferences. With this book, readers will quickly get up-to-speed on the most recent and future advancements in bio-mechatronics engineering for applications in rehabilitation. - Presents insights into emerging technologies and developments that are currently used or on the horizon in biological systems and mechatronics for rehabilitative purposes - Gives a comprehensive background of biological interfaces and details of new advances in the field - Addresses the challenges of rehabilitative applications in areas of bio-signal processing, bio-modelling, neural and muscular interface, and neural devices. - Provides substantial background materials and relevant case studies for each subject

Assistive Technology Assessment Handbook, Second Edition, proposes an international ideal model for the assistive technology assessment process, outlining how this model can be applied in practice to re-conceptualize the phases of an assistive technology delivery system according to the biopsychosocial model of disability. The model provides reference guidelines for evidence-based practice, guiding both public and private centers that wish to compare, evaluate, and improve their ability to match a person with the correct technology model. This second edition also offers a contribution to the Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology (GATE) initiative, whose activities are strongly focused on the assistive products service delivery model. Organized into three parts, the handbook: gives readers a toolkit for performing assessments; describes the roles of the assessment team members, among them the new profession of psychotechnologist; and reviews technologies for rehabilitation and independent living, including brain–computer interfaces, exoskeletons, and technologies for music therapy. Edited by Stefano Federici and Marcia J. Scherer, this cross-cultural handbook includes contributions from leading experts across five continents, offering a framework for future practice and research.

The Handbook of Human Motion is a large cross-disciplinary reference work which covers the many interlinked facets of the science and technology of human motion and its measurement. Individual chapters cover fundamental principles and technological developments, the state-of-the-art and consider applications across four broad and interconnected fields; medicine, sport, forensics and animation. The huge strides in technological advancement made over the past century make it possible to measure motion with unprecedented precision, but also lead to new challenges. This work introduces the many different approaches and systems used in motion capture, including IR and ultrasound, mechanical systems and video, plus some emerging techniques. The large variety of techniques used for the study of motion science in medicine can make analysis a complicated process, but extremely effective for the treatment of the patient when well utilised. The handbook describes how motion capture techniques are applied in medicine, and shows how the resulting analysis can help in diagnosis and treatment. A closely related field, sports science involves a combination of in-depth medical knowledge and detailed understanding of performance and training techniques, and motion capture can play an extremely important role in linking these disciplines. The handbook considers which technologies are most appropriate in specific circumstances, how they are applied and how this can help prevent injury and improve sporting performance. The application of motion capture in forensic science and security is reviewed, with chapters dedicated to specific areas including employment law, injury analysis, criminal activity and motion/facial recognition. And in the final area of application, the book describes how novel motion capture techniques have been designed specifically to aid the creation of increasingly realistic animation within films and video games, with Lord of the Rings and Avatar just two examples. Chapters will provide an overview of the bespoke motion capture techniques developed for animation, how these have influenced advances in film and game design, and the links to behavioural studies, both in humans and in robotics. Comprising a cross-referenced compendium of different techniques and applications across a broad field, the Handbook of Human Motion provides the reader with a detailed reference and simultaneously a source of inspiration for future work. The book will be of use to students, researchers, engineers and others working in any field relevant to human motion capture.

The book provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in the field of gait and balance rehabilitation. It describes technologies and devices together with the requirements and factors to be considered during their application in clinical settings. The book covers physiological and pathophysiological basis of locomotion and posture control, describes integrated approaches for the treatment of neurological diseases and spinal cord injury, as well as important principles for designing appropriate clinical studies. It presents computer and robotic technologies currently used in rehabilitation, such as exoskeleton devices, functional electrical stimulation, virtual reality and many more, highlighting the main advantages and challenges both from the clinical and engineering perspective. Written in an easy-to-understand style, the book is intended for people with different background and expertise, including medical and engineering students, clinicians and physiotherapists, as well as technical developers of rehabilitation systems and their corresponding human-compute interfaces. It aims at fostering an increased awareness of available technologies for balance and gait rehabilitation, as well as a better communication and collaboration between their users and developers.

This book focuses on the key technologies in developing biomechatronic systems for medical rehabilitation purposes. It includes a detailed analysis of biosignal processing, biomechanics modelling, neural and muscular interfaces, artificial actuators, robot-assisted training, clinical setup/implementation and rehabilitation robot control.Encompassing highly multidisciplinary themes in the engineering and medical fields, it presents researchers'insights into the emerging technologies and developments that are being utilized in biomechatronics for medical purposes.Presenting a detailed analysis of five key areas in rehabilitation robotics: (i) biosignal processing; (ii) biomechanics modelling; (iii) neural and muscular interfaces; (iv) artificial actuators and devices; and (v) the use of neurological and muscular interfaces in rehabilitation robots control, the book describes the design of biomechatronic systems, the methods and control systems used and the implementation and testing in order to show how they fulfil the needs of that specific area of rehabilitation. Providing a comprehensive overview of the background of biomechatronics and details of new advances in the field, it is especially useful for researchers, academics and graduates new to the field of biomechatronics engineering, and is also of interest to researchers and clinicians in the medical field who are not engineers.

This book contains a comprehensive overview of all current uses of robots in rehabilitation. The underlying principles in each application are provided. This is followed by a critical review of the technology available, of the utilization protocols, and of user studies, outcomes, and clinical evidence, if existing. Ethical and social implications of robot use are also discussed. The reader will have an in depth view of rehabilitation robots, from principles to practice.

The book reports on advanced topics in the areas of wearable robotics research and practice. It focuses on new technologies, including neural interfaces, soft wearable robots, sensors and actuators technologies, and discusses important regulatory challenges, as well as clinical and ethical issues. Based on the 2nd International Symposium on Wearable Robotics, WeRob2016, held October 18-21, 2016, in Segovia, Spain, the book addresses a large audience of academics and professionals working in government, industry, and medical centers, and end-users alike. It provides them with specialized information and with a source of inspiration for new ideas and collaborations. It discusses exemplary case studies highlighting practical challenges related to the implementation of wearable robots in a number of fields. One of the focus is on clinical applications, which was encouraged by the colocation of WeRob2016 with the International Conference on Neurorehabilitation, INCR2016. Additional topics include space applications and assistive technologies in the industry. The book merges together the engineering, medical, ethical and political perspectives, thus offering a multidisciplinary, timely snapshot of the field of wearable technologies.

Human Modelling for Bio-inspired Robotics: Mechanical Engineering in Assistive Technologies presents the most cutting-edge research outcomes in the area of mechanical and control aspects of human functions for macro-scale (human size) applications. Intended to provide researchers both in academia and industry with key content on which to base their developments, this book is organized and written by senior experts in their fields. Human Modeling for Bio-Inspired Robotics: Mechanical Engineering in Assistive Technologies offers a system-level investigation into human mechanisms that inspire the development of assistive technologies and humanoid robotics, including topics in modelling of anatomical, musculoskeletal, neural and cognitive systems, as well as motor skills, adaptation and integration. Each chapter is written by a subject expert and discusses its background, research challenges, key outcomes, application, and future trends. This book will be especially useful for academic and industry researchers in this exciting field, as well as graduate-level students to bring them up to speed with the latest technology in mechanical design and control aspects of the area. Previous knowledge of the fundamentals of kinematics, dynamics, control, and signal processing is assumed. - Presents the most recent research outcomes in the area of mechanical and control aspects of human functions for macro-scale (human size) applications - Covers background information and fundamental concepts of human modelling - Includes modelling of anatomical, musculoskeletal, neural and cognitive systems, as well as motor skills, adaptation, integration, and safety issues - Assumes previous knowledge of the fundamentals of kinematics, dynamics, control, and signal processing

The book reports on advanced topics in the areas of neurorehabilitation research and practice. It focuses on new methods for interfacing the human nervous system with electronic and mechatronic systems to restore or compensate impaired neural functions. Importantly, the book merges different perspectives, such as the clinical, neurophysiological, and bioengineering ones, to promote, feed and encourage collaborations between clinicians, neuroscientists and engineers. Based on the 2016 International Conference on Neurorehabilitation (ICNR 2016) held on October 18-21, 2016, in Segovia, Spain, this book covers various aspects of neurorehabilitation research and practice, including new insights into biomechanics, brain physiology, neuroplasticity, and brain damages and diseases, as well as innovative methods and technologies for studying and/or recovering brain function, from data mining to interface technologies and neuroprosthetics. In this way, it offers a concise, yet comprehensive reference guide to neurosurgeons, rehabilitation physicians, neurologists, and bioengineers. Moreover, by highlighting current challenges in understanding brain diseases as well as in the available technologies and their implementation, the book is also expected to foster new collaborations between the different groups, thus stimulating new ideas and research directions.

Robot-assisted healthcare offers benefits for repetitive, intensive and task specific training compared to traditional manual manipulation performed by physiotherapists. However, a majority of existing rehabilitation devices use rigid actuators such as electric motors or hydraulic cylinders which cannot guarantee the safety of patients; novel soft robots combining soft and compliant actuators with stiff skeletons offer a better alternative. This book focuses on the development of these soft robotics for rehabilitation purposes.

This revised, updated second edition provides an accessible, practical overview of major areas of technical development and clinical application in the field of neurorehabilitation movement therapy. The initial section provides a rationale for technology application in movement therapy by summarizing recent findings in neuroplasticity and motor learning. The following section then explains the state of the art in human-machine interaction requirements for clinical rehabilitation practice. Subsequent sections describe the ongoing revolution in robotic therapy for upper extremity movement and for walking, and then describe other emerging technologies including electrical stimulation, virtual reality, wearable sensors, and brain-computer interfaces. The promises and limitations of these technologies in neurorehabilitation are discussed. Throughout the book the chapters provide detailed practical information on state-of-the-art clinical applications of these devices following stroke, spinal cord injury, and other neurologic disorders. The text is illustrated throughout with photographs and schematic diagrams which serve to clarify the information for the reader. Neurorehabilitation Technology, Second Edition is a valuable resource for neurologists, biomedical engineers, roboticists, rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and those training in these fields.

This book provides state-of-the-art scientific and engineering research findings and developments in the area of mobile robotics and associated support technologies around the theme of assistive robotics. The book contains peer reviewed articles presented at the CLAWAR 2015 conference. The book contains a comprehensive collection of papers on legged locomotion with numbers of legs from two upward to multi-legs, which includes robots cable of climbing walls, poles, or more complex structures such as continuing the distinctive CLAWAR themes. There are also a strong showing of articles covering human assist devices, notably exoskeletal and prosthetic devices, as well as social robots designed to meet the growing challenges of global ageing population.

The E-Medicine, E-Health, M-Health, Telemedicine, and Telehealth Handbook provides extensive coverage of modern telecommunication in the medical industry, from sensors on and within the body to electronic medical records and beyond. Telehealth and Mobile Health is the second volume of this handbook. Featuring chapters written by leading experts and

This book brings together 106 papers presented at the Joint Conferences of 2015 International Conference on Computer Science and Engineering Technology (CSET2015) and 2015 International Conference on Medical Science and Biological Engineering (MSBE2015), which were held in Hong Kong on 30-31 May 2015.The joint conferences covered a wide range of research topics in new emerging technologies, ranging from computing to biomedical engineering. During the conferences, industry professionals, scholars and government agencies around the world gathered to share their latest research results and discuss the practical challenges they encountered. Their research articles were reviewed and selected by a panel of experts before being compiled into this proceedings. Combining research findings and industry applications, this proceedings should be a useful reference for researchers and engineers working in computing and biomedical science.

This book reports on the latest technological and clinical advances in the field of neurorehabilitation. It is, however, much more than a conventional survey of the state-of-the-art in neurorehabilitation technologies and therapies. It was written on the basis of a week of lively discussions between PhD students and leading research experts during the Summer School on Neurorehabilitation (SSNR2014), held September 15-19 in Baiona, Spain. Its unconventional format makes it a perfect guide for all PhD students, researchers and professionals interested in gaining a multidisciplinary perspective on current and future neurorehabilitation scenarios. The book addresses various aspects of neurorehabilitation research and practice, including a selection of common impairments affecting CNS function, such as stroke and spinal cord injury, as well as cutting-edge rehabilitation and diagnostics technologies, including robotics, neuroprosthetics, brain-machine interfaces and neuromodulation.

This book provides readers with an integrative overview of the latest research and developments in the broad field of biomedical engineering. Each of the chapters offers a timely review written by leading biomedical engineers and aims at showing how the convergence of scientific and engineering fields with medicine has created a new basis for practically solving problems concerning human health, wellbeing and disease. While some of the latest frontiers of biomedicine, such as neuroscience and regenerative medicine, are becoming increasingly dependent on new ideas and tools from other disciplines, the paradigm shift caused by technological innovations in the fields of information science, nanotechnology, and robotics is opening new opportunities in healthcare, besides dramatically changing the ways we actually practice science. At the same time, a new generation of engineers, fluent in many different scientific “languages,” is creating entirely new fields of research that approach the “old” questions from a new and holistic angle. The book reports on the scientific revolutions in the field of biomedicine by describing the latest technologies and findings developed at the interface between science and engineering. It addresses students, fellows, and faculty and industry investigators searching for new challenges in the broad biomedical engineering fields.

The Physiological Measurement Handbook presents an extensive range of topics that encompass the subject of measurement in all departments of medicine. The handbook describes the use of instruments and techniques for practical measurements required in medicine. It covers sensors, techniques, hardware, and software as well as information on processin

Focussing on the key technologies in developing robots for a wide range of medical rehabilitation activities – which will include robotics basics, modelling and control, biomechanics modelling, rehabilitation strategies, robot assistance, clinical setup/implementation as well as neural and muscular interfaces for rehabilitation robot control – this book is split into two parts; a review of the current state of the art, and recent advances in robotics for medical rehabilitation. Both parts will include five sections for the five key areas in rehabilitation robotics: (i) the upper limb; (ii) lower limb for gait rehabilitation (iii) hand, finger and wrist; (iv) ankle for strains and sprains; and (v) the use of EEG and EMG to create interfaces between the neurological and muscular functions of the patients and the rehabilitation robots.Each chapter provides a description of the design of the device, the control system used, and the implementation and testing to show how it fulfils the needs of that specific area of rehabilitation. The book will detail new devices, some of which have never been published before in any journal or conference.

This volume presents the proceedings of the CLAIB 2014, held in Paraná, Entre Ríos, Argentina 29, 30 & 31 October 2014. The proceedings, presented by the Regional Council of Biomedical Engineering for Latin America (CORAL) offer research findings, experiences and activities between institutions and universities to develop Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering and related sciences.The conferences of the American Congress of Biomedical Engineering are sponsored by the International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering (IFMBE), Society for Engineering in Biology and Medicine (EMBS) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), among other organizations and international agencies and bringing together scientists, academics and biomedical engineers in Latin America and other continents in an environment conducive to exchange and professional growth.The Topics include:- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology- Bioinstrumentation; Sensors, Micro and Nano Technologies- Biomaterials, Tissue Engineering and Artificial Organs- Biomechanics, Robotics and Motion Analysis- Biomedical Images and Image Processing- Biomedical Signal Processing- Clinical Engineering and Electromedicine- Computer and Medical Informatics- Health and home care, telemedicine- Modeling and Simulation- Radiobiology, Radiation and Medical Physics- Rehabilitation Engineering and Prosthetics- Technology, Education and Innovation

This book describes the use of modern micro- and nanofabrication technologies to develop improved tools for stimulating and recording electrical activity in neuronal networks. It provides an overview of the different ways in which the “nano-world” can be beneficial for neuroscientists, including improvement of mechanical adhesion of cells on electrodes, tight-sealed extracellular recordings or intracellular approaches with strongly reduced invasiveness and tools for localized electrical or optical stimulation in optogenetics experiments. Specific discussion of fabrication strategies is included, to provide a comprehensive guide to develop micro and nanostructured tools for biological applications. A perspective on integrating these devices with state-of-the-art technologies for large-scale in vitro and in vivo experiments completes the picture of neuronal interfacing with micro- and nanostructures.

The book is the proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR 2014), held 24th-26th June 2014 in Aalborg, Denmark. The conference featured the latest highlights in the emerging and interdisciplinary field of neural rehabilitation engineering and identified important healthcare challenges the scientific community will be faced with in the coming years. Edited and written by leading experts in the field, the book includes keynote papers, regular conference papers, and contributions to special and innovation sessions, covering the following main topics: neuro-rehabilitation applications and solutions for restoring impaired neurological functions; cutting-edge technologies and methods in neuro-rehabilitation; and translational challenges in neuro-rehabilitation. Thanks to its highly interdisciplinary approach, the book will not only be a highly relevant reference guide for academic researchers, engineers, neurophysiologists, neuroscientists, physicians and physiotherapists working at the forefront of their field, but will also help to act as bridge between the scientific, engineering and medical communities.

Cybernics plays a significant role in coping with an aging society using state-of-the-art technologies from engineering, clinical medicine and humanities. This new interdisciplinary field studies technologies that enhance, strengthen, and support physical and cognitive functions of human beings, based on the fusion of human, machine, and information systems. The design of a seamless interface for interaction between the interior and exterior of the human body is described in this book from diverse aspects such as the physical, neurophysiological, and cognitive levels. It is the first book to cover the many aspects of cybernics, allowing readers to understand the life support robotics technology for the elderly, including remote, in-home, hospital, institutional, community medical welfare, and vital-sensing systems. Serving as a valuable resource, this volume will interest not only graduate students, scientists, and engineers but also newcomers to the field of cybernics.