Revolutionary Sensor Technology: Enhancing Rehabilitation with Wearable Robots
Recently, a Korean company generously donated a groundbreaking wearable robot to a hospital. This innovative robot is designed to assist patients with limited mobility during their rehabilitation. By wearing this device, patients receive support for muscle and joint exercises while performing everyday actions like walking or sitting. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and eyewear, have the potential to greatly improve our quality of life. The emergence of this robotic innovation brings hope to many individuals in need.
Introducing CVOS Sensors: A Breakthrough in Rehabilitation Technology
Conventional soft strain sensors, used in rehabilitative robots, analyze data by translating specific physical changes into electric signals. However, these sensors often lack durability and are vulnerable to external factors like temperature and humidity. Additionally, their complicated fabrication process hinders widespread commercialization.
Professor Sung-Min Park and PhD candidate Sunguk Hong from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) have led a research team in overcoming the limitations of these soft strain sensors. Their groundbreaking work integrates computer vision technology with optical sensors to develop a new sensor technology called computer vision-based optical strain (CVOS). Their research findings were featured in npj Flexible Electronics.
The Advantages of CVOS Sensors
CVOS sensors surpass conventional sensors by detecting three-axial rotational movements, allowing for precise recognition of intricate bodily motions. These sensors utilize computer vision and optical sensors to analyze microscale optical patterns, extracting data regarding changes. By eliminating elements that compromise sensor functionalities and streamlining fabrication processes, CVOS sensors enhance durability and facilitate commercialization.
In addition, the research team integrated an AI-based response correction algorithm that corrects errors during signal detection. The experimental results showed consistent high performance even after more than 10,000 iterations.
Professor Sung-Min Park shared his excitement about the potential of CVOS sensors, stating, “These sensors can effectively discern body movements across diverse directions and angles, optimizing rehabilitative interventions. By tailoring design indicators and algorithms to specific objectives, CVOS sensors have limitless applications across various industries.”