Robotics·Jan 1, 2023

Paralyzed Patient Assist Robot

An assistive-robotics concept for paralyzed patients — simple input methods, useful actions, no scary complexity.

Overview

Some of my favourite projects are the ones where the engineering does not have to be flashy — it just has to be useful for one specific person. This assistive robot was built around that idea. The concept is a robot that can carry small items, call for help, or trigger nearby appliances using accessible input methods — a single switch, a voice command, anything a paralyzed patient can actually use.

Specifications

RoleConcept developer and prototype builder

MicrocontrollerArduino / ESP-class controller

SensorsUser input switch / sensor

ModulesMotor driverBuzzer/alertOptional wireless module

ProtocolsGPIOPWMWireless optional

Tech tagsAssistive TechnologyPatient CareRoboticsAccessible Control

Architecture

Accessible input triggers controller actions. The robot can alert caregivers or control actuators depending on configured command modes.

Project photos

Implementation details

Firmware

Firmware reads simplified user input, triggers assistance actions, controls motors or alert outputs, and can be extended for remote notifications.

Power

Portable low-voltage battery power supports patient-safe operation.

Components / BOM

Microcontroller board, Accessible input switch/sensor, Motor/actuator output, Buzzer/indicator, Battery pack

Engineering challenges

Making the control as simple as possible without losing reliability, and making sure the robot fails in a safe way.

Solutions

Stripped the interface down to the bare minimum, defined a small set of useful actions, and built the prototype around safe, low-power actuation.

Results & metrics

A prototype that demonstrates the direction for low-cost patient-assist robotics in a home setting.

Future improvements

Caregiver mobile alerts, voice control, a safer chassis, medical-grade enclosure and a clear emergency-stop behaviour.