Utilisation d'un bras robotisé par des personnes ayant un contrôle moteur diminué aux membres supérieurs

Robotic arms are technical aids that are controlled by a joystick and have been designed to help powered wheelchair users having difficulties with reach, grasp and transport of objects. The JACO™ robotic arm has been put through trials with eight persons aged 7 to 21 years. Clinical observations were made during sessions of familiarization, control skills testing and daily life activity situations. Results of the study reveal that when the robotic arm was used (for an average of 22 situations observed), 77% of the time the accomplishment level of the life habits reached to a level of “no human assistance required”. The greatest increase in independence was observed in nutrition, home activities, self-care and communication. All participants improved their control skills. Comments on the assistive device are given.