MIT-MANUS

The goal of the Manus project was to develop, implement, and test a robotic system for physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation. The Manus device is a computer-driven robot "arm" that emulates the movements a physical therapist might make while working with a patient to re-develop arm and hand coordination. The robot arm holds the patient's own hand and arm, and either manipulates them according to a pre-set program, or records the patient's own movements for later analysis.

There are several potential advantages in using this device. One advantage is the ability to use the patient's movements to drive a graphical goal and feedback system on a computer screen (In laymen's terms, a "video game"). Keeping the patient alert and interested may enhance the effects of rehabilitative movement.

As a student with background in both Cognitive Science and Graphic Design, part of my job on the project was to design and implement these games. Parts of a prototype game are shown below. The object of the game was to keep the pteranodon above two predators while it flapped across the screen. If the pteranodon fell too low, it was in danger of being eaten.


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