Controlling a robotic arm using head and facial movements for people with high-level paralysis
Official title: Hands-free Control of an Assistive Robotic Arm for High Level Paralysis
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10741948 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how people with severe paralysis can use their head, tongue, and facial movements to control a robotic arm, helping them do everyday tasks like eating and personal care without needing surgery, all to improve their independence and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $146,630 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS130397-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741948 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with high-level tetraplegia who retain some voluntary movement in their head, face, or tongue.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with complete paralysis who lack any voluntary movement or control over their head or facial muscles may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how individuals with high-level paralysis can control a robotic arm using non-invasive methods, such as movements of the head, tongue, and facial muscles. By utilizing brain-machine interfaces, the project aims to develop a system that allows these patients to perform everyday tasks like feeding themselves and personal hygiene without the need for invasive surgery. The study will evaluate different control types and input methods to determine the most effective way to operate the robotic arm. This innovative approach seeks to enhance the independence and quality of life for those affected by severe paralysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability of high-level paralysis patients to perform daily activities independently.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using brain-machine interfaces for assistive devices, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuglevand, Andrew J — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Fuglevand, Andrew J
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.