Using a mobile robot to help people with severe spinal cord injuries live more independently
Social, Assistive Mobile Manipulator (SAMM) to enhance functional independence in persons with tetraplegia secondary to severe cervical spinal cord injury
This study is working on a friendly robot that can help people with tetraplegia do everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating, making life a little easier and more independent while also supporting their emotional needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Charles River Analytics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180646 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a mobile manipulator designed to assist individuals with tetraplegia due to severe cervical spinal cord injuries in performing daily activities. The project aims to enhance functional independence by utilizing advanced robotics technology to help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. By integrating social robotics with physical assistance, the research seeks to alleviate the burden on caregivers and improve the overall quality of life for patients. The approach involves creating a robot that can interact with users and assist them in a supportive manner, addressing both physical and emotional needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with tetraplegia resulting from severe cervical spinal cord injuries who require assistance with daily living activities.
Not a fit: Patients with mild spinal cord injuries or those who do not require assistance with daily activities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the independence and quality of life for individuals with severe spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in the field of assistive robotics has shown promise in improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Charles River Analytics, INC. — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cross, Ernest Vincent — Charles River Analytics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Cross, Ernest Vincent
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 below.