Presentation description

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term physical disability, with survivors often having trouble with fine motor control of the hand on one side of their body. These impairments significantly affect activities of daily living (ADLs), such as feeding, which requires precise grip control, hand coordination, and strength modulation. Current stroke assessment tools such as the Box and Blocks test focus primarily on gross motor function, neglecting and overlooking the hands' ability to perform tasks requiring finer motor control. Without a standardized assessment for fine motor control of the hand, it is difficult for therapists to judge rehabilitation effectiveness, and track progress over time.

To better assess fine motor function in the hand, we are developing an instrumented handle that enables quantifiable, task-specific assessment of hand function during activities of daily living. The device autonomously records grip force, movement patterns, and task outcomes as users perform eating-related tasks. The system is adaptable, low-cost, and designed for use in clinical or settings without supervision, including modular attachments for different feeding activities. The device incorporates forces sensors to measure grip strength and stab strength in real time, an accelerometer for orientation tracking, and a hall effect sensor for tracking device position relative to two magnets.

With a form factor similar to standard utensils (115mm length, 33mm diameter, <80 g weight), the system captures metrics including average grip force (0-100 N range), number of successful transfers, and time per bite, stab force, with data logging and wireless transmission. This work supports a more functional and valid assessment of hand performance, helping occupational therapists monitor progress and adjust treatment plans more effectively. This instrumented handle could apply to other conditions affecting fine motor skills and increase the possibility of helping stroke patients regain motor function.