The Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab is the world-standard system for quantitative assessment of brain function for use in cutting-edge research into brain injury and disease. The robotic system offers insights into the cognitive, motor and sensory functions of the brain.
Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab
The standard Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab consists of:
- Either one or two Kinarm Exoskeleton Robots for use on the upper limbs
- The Dexterit-E™ experimental control software and hardware
- Accessories to enable subject support for studies with severe postural impairments, such as stroke, cerebral palsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Optional Kinarm Standard Tests
What is the Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab?
The Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab is a versatile, state-of-the-art research facility that can be used to study sensory, motor, and cognitive functions.
The system can be comprised of one or two exoskeleton robots for use on the subject's upper limbs. Using an adjustable linkage system, Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab allows the subject to make flexion and extension movements at the shoulder and elbow joints in a horizontal plane. This design provides feedback from both the shoulder and elbow joints, as well as allowing the operator to apply loads independently to either of these joints for different applications. Patterns of joint motion and muscular torques can be computed from within the system.
By combining two Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab robots, the operator is able to compare inter-arm performance, as well as conduct deeper studies into the subject's bimanual coordination.
The system's 2D virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR) display allows the researcher total control over the visual stimuli delivered during the study, as well as offering the potential for the vision of the limb being studied.
What is the Dexterit-E™ Software?
Dexterit-E™, Kinarm Lab's Operating & Control Software, is a robust behavioural control and data acquisition software package that is used to operate all Kinarm Labs products. The easy-to-use interface, operated through a Microsoft Windows computer, allows the operator to run the Kinarm Lab in real time, offering precise, reliable control and measurement of the system during the study. The system provides multiple levels of customisation and flexibility for researchers, and integration with the Kinarm Standard Tests can be used to enable immediate data collection, analysis and reporting without the need for any programming experience.
Watch the Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab in action:
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Optional VR/AR Displays
The Kinarm End-Point Lab can be provided with an optional 2D VR/AR display. This functionality allows for natural, intuitive presentation of visual stimuli aligned with the arm’s workspace.
Optional Gaze Tracking System
The Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab can be provided with a head-free gaze-tracking device that is easily accommodated within the Kinarm VR system where space is limited.
The head-free functionality of the gaze tracking device ensures that nothing interferes with the subject's head, which can be particularly valuable in clinical applications.
Modular Design
The Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab can be used with one or two Kinarm robots. By combining two robots, researchers are able to compare inter-arm performance as well as the study of bimanual coordination.
System Specifications
|
Real Time Experiment Control |
4 kHz; data aquisition at 1kHz |
|---|---|
|
Minimum Suggested Lab Size |
3.5m x 3.5m (12' x 12') |
|
Subject Size |
5-95th percentile of general population over five years old, inc. adults up to 198cm |
|
Maximum Subject Weight for Chair |
182kg |
|
DAQ |
Options available |
|
Special Voltage Requirements |
None |
Exoskeleton Robot Specifications
|
Maximum Continuous Joint Torque |
5.1 Nm |
|---|---|
|
Maximum Intermittent (<5 s duration) Joint Torque |
15.3 Nm |
|
Subject Size |
5-95th percentile of general population over five years old, inc. adults up to 198cm |
|
Feedback Resolution |
0.0006° (deg) (~4 microns) |
|
Vertical Out-of-Plane Stiffness |
8,500 N/m |
|
End-Point In-Plane Mechanical Stiffness |
16,400 N/m |
Kinarm Gaze-Tracker Specifications
|
Workspace |
55° x 40° ellipse |
|---|---|
|
Resolution |
0.05° |
|
Mean Accuracy (With Limited Head Movement) |
0.5° |
|
Rate |
500 Hz |
Compatible Products
This product can be used in combination with some of our other systems. Find out more by selecting one from the list below.
Associated Techniques
To find out more about the techniques that are applicable to this product, follow the links below.
Added Value
In addition to supplying and supporting a wide range of neuroscience products, Brainbox offers additional value in a number of areas that can benefit our customers, including:
Training
Installation, Product Training, Technique Training, Bespoke Training
Lab Support
System Upgrades, Testing, Calibration, System Integration, Bespoke Solutions
Research Support
Study Design, Piloting, Technical Information, References
Collaboration
Grant Applications, Industrial Projects, Workshops
