Staff

	Takashi WATANABE, Professor

Fig.1: Development of movement control method of paralyzed extremities by using FES. FES control methods based on feedback control, learning control and so on are studied through computer simulation and examination with subjects.

Fig.2: Development of wearable sensor system and electrical stimulation control system. Development of prototype system and experimental tests are performed for realizing practical system.

Motor and sensory functions are paralyzed by spinal cord injury or cerebrovascular disease. The decrease in the motor function such as weakened lower-body or in sensory function of visual or hearing system are caused as a result of advanced age.
In our laboratory, technologies for restoring or assisting motor or sensory disabled persons, or elderly persons are widely studied so as to support independent daily life and then their social activities.

For instance, restoring motor functions of upper and lower limbs using functional electrical stimulation (FES), motor rehabilitation using electrical stimulation, development of wearable sensor system and its application to motor rehabilitation and daily training for health care are studied.
Sensory substitution system for persons with visual or hearing defects or with sensory paralysis, and assist system for elderly persons such as alert in driving are also studied using transmitting information by cutaneous sensation elicited by electrical or vibratory stimulation.

The current research topics are as follows:

1. Motor control of paralyzed limbs by functional electrical stimulation (FES)
2. Motor rehabilitation system based on electrical stimulation
3. Wearable sensor system to assist rehabilitation and health care
4. Evaluation of motor function and training assist system
5. Sensory information interface for handicapped or elderly persons

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