Robot gloves help people with stroke play piano again | Ubergizmo Japan

Even daily activities such as tying shoes and brushing teeth can be very challenging while recovering from a stroke. But for those who have found great pleasure in playing the piano, the effects of such injuries are much more serious.

Fortunately, a new solution has emerged: a special robotic glove designed specifically for playing the piano. It is located in FloridaDeveloped at Atlantic UniversityThis glove is an exceptional device, designed to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate the interaction between the pianist and the instrument.

Super technology

According to the university’s official announcement, the robotic glove combines flexible touch sensors, soft actuators, and advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, and is the first to distinguish between correct and incorrect performance of the same piece of music.

These components are seamlessly integrated into a one-handed device that differs from traditional prosthetic hands. Made of synthetic poly fibers and hydrogel, this glove is designed to fit comfortably in the palm of a person’s hand.

With the integration of artificial intelligence, this glove helps coordinate finger movements and is programmed to identify 12 different types of errors that occur when pressing piano keys. These errors include hitting the notes too hard or stretching the notes for too long periods of time.

“Playing the piano requires complex, sophisticated movements, and recovery and retraining of specific movements and techniques is essential to regain that ability,” said Dr. Eric Engberg, FAU’s Department of Naval and Mechanical Engineering. He emphasized the potential of this technology.

“Although the focus of this study was on musical performance, the same methods can be applied to many daily tasks, providing patients with personalized rehabilitation,” added Dr. Eric Engeberg. It enables hardware to assist software. “

Amazing accuracy

A study using three different deep learning algorithms showed amazing accuracy. In tests with humans, the Gauntlet achieved an impressive 97% accuracy when playing the “Mary had a Little Lamb” melody. Even without humans, it maintained an impressive 94% accuracy.

The engineers and clinicians involved suggest that by analyzing hit and miss data, medical professionals can identify weaknesses in a patient’s performance in playing a particular piece of music. Furthermore, this glove can accommodate more complex combinations of lullabies.

Thanks to this revolutionary robotic glove, even people who have suffered a stroke can now take up the challenge of rediscovering the joy of playing the piano. This expectation extends to rehabilitation, and is expected to improve function across a wide range of activities in daily life.

This article has been translated and edited for Japan by the editorial department.

the originhere