Robotic Stretcher for SMA Patient: Preliminary Tests on Controllability and Safety

Diseases such as ALS and SMA often cause motor disabilities by progressive loss of muscle power. However, some patients must lie horizontally and thus cannot operate a wheelchair. The aim of this study was to develop a robotic stretcher for an SMA patient with severe motor disabilities to enable her to maneuver independently inside a building. In the concept of the stretcher, the user can drive the stretcher using an applicable operating device while watching a display feed from cameras mounted on the stretcher. We have developed some new devices with operating algorithm, mechanical frame and control system suitable to the user’s limited abilities (motion in only one finger), and verified their functions by tests with prototype machine. In addition, we show some results of a risk assessment of the prototype machine.