The challenges of integrating humanoid robots in stroke rehabilitation
Our latest AWRC Lunch and Learn session welcomed Dr Hamed Pourfannan, Research Fellow in Cognitive Robotics in the Department of Computing and Digital Technologies for a fascinating discussion about how robots might support stroke rehabilitation in the future.
The session introduced us to PRIMI, a European research project empowering robots with cognitive capabilities through mental imagery. We learned about two robots that are helping researchers rethink approaches to rehabilitation: the humanoid iCub and a new kangaroo robot which is still under development.
Hamed also shared insights from recent stakeholder engagement with NHS stroke rehabilitation professionals, exploring how they imagine robots might complement their practice.
Challenges exist, from task allocation to cognitive mismatch, but the opportunities to enhance rehabilitation as we know it are exciting.
Thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the discussion, and to Hamad for sharing this fascinating research with us.