MIDAS: Multi-sensorial Immersive Dynamic Autonomous System Improves Motivation of Stroke Affected Patients for Hand Rehabilitation

In this paper, we present the design and development of MIDAS. MIDAS is intended to be a portable immersive system inclusive of an exoskeleton, a smell releasing device, and a VR game that will help stroke patients feel more motivated during a hand rehabilitation session. MIDAS engages four out of five senses during rehabilitation. MIDAS uses EMG signals taken from the subject’s forearm to predict their intention before activating physical assistance (tactile) in the opening or closing of the fingers of their hand. To evaluate the performance of MIDAS, a pilot study is done using established tools to quantify the user experience, comfort, pleasure, and motivation of the subjects in using MIDAS for rehabilitation exercises.