Novel Interactive Visual Task for Robot-Assisted Gait Training for Stroke Rehabilitation

In this paper, we present an interactive visual task for robot-assisted gait training after stroke. This stand-alone game is interfaced with the impedance controlled modular ankle exoskeleton ("Anklebot") that provides support only as needed to enhance ankle neuro-motor control in the context of treadmill walking. The interactive task is designed as a simple soccer-based computer video-game such that movement of the game cursor (soccer ball) towards the goal is determined by a patient's volitional ankle torque. Here, we present the design and features of this interactive video game, as well as the underlying biomechanical model that relates patient-to-game performance. Additionally, we embed simple Statistical analysis algorithms to auto-adjust game parameters in real-time based on patient performance for patient motivation. Finally, we present preliminary test results from a stroke subject trials to validate the video-game performance and its feasibility for clinical use.