Sensing device for measuring infants’ grasping actions

Abstract: The study and measurement of grasping actions and forces in humans is important in a variety of contexts. In infants, it can give insights on the neuro-motor development and on pathological dysfunctions, while it poses functional and operative requirements that are not fully matched by current sensing technology. Novel approaches for measuring infants’ grasping actions are based on sensorized toys usable in natural settings. In this paper, we present a sensing device for measuring grasping force in 4–9-month-old infants. Starting from technical and clinical specifications, we designed and developed a novel device made by silicone, shaped as a ring toy and equipped with a pressure sensor, able to measure the pressure exerted by the infant''s hand in the range of 0–5psi. A mechanical model of the material has been developed and tensile compression tests have been executed in order to assess the mechanical and electrical characteristics of the sensing device. The proposed device complies with the (technical and clinical) specifications and results suitable for measuring the grasping forces of the targeted infants, and finally for monitoring infants’ motor development. The theoretical model developed and the methodology for designing and characterizing the sensing device allow for easy re-design and adaptation of the sensing device and consideration of a variety of possible applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]