IEEE RAS EMBS 10th International Conference on Biomedical Robotics and Biomechatronics (BioRob 2024), 1-4 September 2024 Heidelberg, Germany
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Workshop & Tutorials
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Half day Workshops 1st of September – Morning (9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.)
Title | Description | URL | Room |
ICORR Workshop: Translating Rehabilitation Robotics Into Clinical Applications | Show Abstract Organizers Robert Riener, Jonathon Sensinger, Meret Branscheidt Abstract Robots can be very useful to restore movement abilities of upper and lower limbs. First, they can promote rehabilitation as training devices after injuries such as spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury and stroke. Second, they can be used as assistive devices to support patients or elders with gait impairments in daily life situations. However, current mechatronic solutions are still too bulky, and their sensory technologies and control strategies are still too primitive to support the correct motion and motion intention. Furthermore, they still require a lot of effort, labor and/or surveillance by a human therapist and they are expensive and often not covered by health insurances. Consequently, the use of robots is less intensive than it could be, and they are not yet broadly accepted by the patients and medical staff. Therefore, we need to better connect engineers with clinicians and scientists with practitioners, health care administrators and insurance companies to better define the needs and preferences of the patients, find the responders of future robot-aided therapy and enhance the distribution and acceptance of the technologies. Usability and function of the rehabilitation robots must change not only to increase acceptability but also to improve the effectiveness and, eventually, the therapy outcome and quality of life of the patients who require physiotherapy or occupational therapy. Speakers Robert Riener, Jon Sensinger, Meret Branscheidt, Francesca Cecchi, Janosch Krauthäuser, Nilofar Niazi, Xavier Jordan, Nicola Vitiello | https://sms.hest.ethz.ch/scientific_events/translating-rehabilitation.html | HS6 |
AI-Based Estimation and Control of Wearable Robotic Systems for Enhancing Human Mobility | Show Abstract Organizers Inseung Kang, Maegan Tucker, Daekyum Kim, Letizia Gionfrida, Patrick Slade Abstract Wearable robotic systems such as lower-limb exoskeletons and prostheses are capable of augmenting human mobility and assisting individuals with mobility impairments. Conventionally, these systems generate joint torques that mimic the user’s underlying biomechanical joint demand during movement. Unfortunately, due to the dynamic nature of human movement during daily locomotor activities, it is challenging to develop a control framework that captures the full range of intended movements. However, recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled improved comprehension of the human state information in real-time, enabling robust control of these wearable systems during dynamic movement. While these AI-based strategies show exciting promise, there remain critical hurdles for these interventions to be deployed to the real world. Challenges include positive feedback loops between actuation and sensing, data size requirements for user-independent models, model’s robustness to unseen mobility contexts, transitions between ambulation modes, and sensor data shifting. In general, there have been few attempts to tackle the critical problem of translating/generalizing laboratory-based AI approaches to real-world, large-scale applications. In this workshop, we will tackle these important challenges from multiple perspectives (both high-level and practical; academic and industrial) and provide roadmaps for future wearable robotic system developers to incorporate AI-based controllers for their applications. Speakers Aaron Young, Elliott Rouse, Helen Huang, Simona Crea | https://sites.google.com/view/biorob-wearable-robotics | HS7 |
Hybrid Robotic and Neuromodulation Control Methodologies for Rehabilitation and Assistive Devices | Show Abstract Organizers Erin Mahan, Shane King, Marcia O’Malley, Mahdi Tavakoli, Sandra Hirche Abstract Hybrid control techniques using robotic and neuromodulation systems are a growing area of research in the biorobotics community, intending to improve rehabilitative outcomes and assist neurologically-impaired individuals. By engaging the neuromuscular system during robotic rehabilitation, the user’s muscles and nervous system actively contribute to the exercise, which encourages improved recovery or maintenance of these biological systems. Additionally, hybrid control can act in an assistive manner by coordinating a person’s body with an exoskeleton or exosuit to improve or restore performance in certain tasks. Making use of an individual’s own muscles can also reduce the demand on the robotic system, allowing for more lightweight, mobile designs. While initial results from a number of groups show promise for hybrid control techniques, several limitations remain which prevent the current adoption of such technologies by end users. To ensure continued effective research aimed at reaching the intended populations, this workshop will provide a platform for the presentation of the work from top researchers in the field with a focus on current results, difficulties overcome, and the challenges which remain to be surmounted. The workshop will provide a discussion panel period with direct audience contribution to further foster this informal dialogue. Specific topics of discussion will include: methods to combine control systems, implementation of hybrid control in different hardware systems including exoskeletons and exosuits, muscle activity sensing techniques for neuromodulation feedback control, differences in control approach for rehabilitation versus assistance, methods for addressing challenges of neuromodulation including fatigue, repeatability, and controllability. Speakers Marcia O’Malley, Eric Shearer, Nitin Sharma, Mahdi Tavakoli, Derek Wolf, Lorenzo Masia, Emilia Ambrosini, Satoshi Endo, Sandra Hirche, Lucille Cazenave, Etienne Burdet | https://biorob2024hybridcontrolmethods.blogs.rice.edu/ | HS14 |
Learning to use lower-limb exoskeletons: Incorporating motor learning principles to improve adaptation to wearable robotic devices | Show Abstract Organizers Maura Eveld, Katherine Poggensee, Alexandra Voloshina, Edwin Van Asseldonk Abstract Lower-limb exoskeletons show great promise as devices for mobility assistance, rehabilitation, or augmentation. Indeed, much research has been on focused on their mechanical design and control methodology to optimize performance goals, such as improved walking speed, increased range of motion, or reduced metabolic cost. However, to truly realize these goals, it is crucial to consider not only the design and control of the device, but also the human user. Understanding how humans adapt to lower-limb exoskeletons and learn to use such devices is critical to creating solutions that can ultimately restore mobility and augment performance. This area is especially important when considering the patient populations that would most benefit from these devices, who may require different training paradigms to adapt to the devices. Therefore, in this workshop we explore the human motor learning side of exoskeleton design and evaluation. Six experts in the field(s) will discuss how they incorporate motor learning principles into their research, and how this is or can be applied to enhance adaptation to devices and performance. In between speaker sessions, attendees will be encouraged to meet with speakers and other researchers through a networking session that will include prompts to stimulate conversation. To culminate the workshop, attendees will be invited to rotate through information stations, in which speakers and their teams will provide demonstrations of their motor learning experimental techniques and/or analysis pipelines. With this workshop, we hope to bring together experts in human motor learning, adaptation to devices, and their intersection to work towards assistive technology that can maximally benefit the user. Speakers Maura Eveld, Kristen Jakubowski, Helen Huang, Laura Marchal-Crespo, Gelsy Torres-Oviedo, Maggie Wu | http://www.utwente.nl/BR24motorlearning | HS10 |
Revolutionising Ageing: The Role of Robotics and Wearable Tech for Older Adults | Show Abstract Organizers Abdeldjallil Naceri, Carlos A. Cifuentes, Luis Figueredo, Hamid Sadeghian, Jörn Vogel, Sami Haddadin Abstract In an era marked by prolonged life expectancy, the global demographic landscape is rapidly evolving, with individuals aged 65 and above, termed third agers, emerging as the fastest-growing age group. Projections from the United Nations indicate that by 2025, third agers will constitute a quarter of the world’s population, presenting a seismic shift that necessitates innovative solutions. This demographic change intensifies the prevalence of age-related conditions, laying bare new socioeconomic challenges associated with the escalating demand for healthcare, assisted living facilities, and retirement homes, all against the backdrop of a diminishing workforce. This workshop serves as a nexus for exploring the dynamic intersection of AI and robotics in Geriatronics, aiming to shed light on pressing challenges. It delves into the transformative potential of the next generation of robotics and AI technology, particularly in addressing the scarcity and geographical imbalances of care providers and the strain on healthcare systems. Additionally, the workshop seeks to advance the development of an accessible, intelligent generation of assistive robotics technologies that empower independence for individuals with disabilities. Integral to the discussion is the systematic examination of factors influencing the acceptance of robotic-technology-based assistive systems, focusing on improving adaptation, interaction, and overall acceptance among caregivers. The workshop aspires to catalyse collaboration and inspire transformative advancements at the nexus of ageing populations, technology, and care in Geriatronics. Speakers Mohamed Bouri, Robert Riener, Eva Swinen, Fanny Ficuciello, Tadej Petric, Yanan Li | https://sites.google.com/view/revolutionizing-aging-biorob24 | HS8 |
High-Resolution Myocontrol – Towards Optimal Intent Detection via High-Density Spatial and Temporal Bio-Signal Detection | Show Abstract Organizers Shriniwas Patwardhan, Biswarup Mukherjee Abstract With the recent advances in sophisticated robotic assistive devices like multiarticulated prosthetic hands and robotic exoskeletons, there is a growing need for users to control these devices intuitively and accurately. One way ahead is to develop more sophisticated algorithms to extract movement intent from biosignals such as sEMG. Rather, we focus here on high-resolution techniques to extract signals from the body, including, but not limited to, HD-sEMG and sonomyography. HD-sEMG, providing both spatial and temporal high resolution in the detection of motor unit action potentials, has already been used to control multiple degrees of freedom simultaneously and proportionally; sonomyography enjoys similar high performance while providing access to the mechanical deformation of the muscles during volitional movement. Traditionally, the information provided by such techniques corresponds to bulky devices, limiting their usage to the laboratory; lately, however, wearable HD-sEMG and ultrasound devices have appeared on the market. Therefore, both these techniques now hold great promise of being useful for dexterous myocontrol, and also in other areas of rehabilitation. The workshop revolves around a few invited talks given in our program. Speakers Claudio Castellini, Honghai Liu, Alessandro Del Vecchio, Siddartha Sikdar, Dario Farina, Nitin Sharma, Geoge Levay | https://sites.google.com/view/hd-myocontrol-biorob2024 | HS4 |
Half day Workshops 1st of September – Afternoon (2.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m.)
Title | Description | URL | Room |
Human-Robot Embodiment: Myths, Principles, Techniques, Quantification, Benefits, and More | Show Abstract Organizers Jonathon Sensinger Abstract Embodiment is a hot topic in biorobotics, evidenced by the many sideline discussions during ICORR23 and recent articles. It is also a poorly understood and highly debated topic, from the definition, to how to objectively measure it, to whether it has benefits for end-users or engineers designing robots such as prostheses or exoskeletons. The goals of this workshop are to: 1. Enable a dialogue between experts in the field with diverse opinions 2. Explain how to achieve and quantify embodiment Speakers Helen Huang, Jonathon Schofield, Jonathon Sensinger, Paul Marasco, Max Ortiz Catalan, Strahinja Dosen | https://www.biorob2024.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/BioRob-Embodiment-workshop.pdf | HS6 |
Efficient Actuation Principles and Bi-Directional Energy Exchange in Human-Centric and Wearable Robotics | Show Abstract Organizers Pablo Lopez Garcia, Wesley Roozing, Philipp Beckerle, Tom Verstraten Abstract Contemporary robots – particularly wearable robotics – grapple with bi-directional energy flow during their interactions with humans and the environment. Similarly, haptic interfaces can benefit from four-quadrant operation to improve backdrivability and achieve more transparent control. Controlling these dynamics is pivotal in ensuring user comfort and a positive experience, necessitating actuation solutions that facilitate negative power flows and, consequently, high transparency/backdrivability. Notably, achieving low mechanical output impedance poses a formidable hurdle for these actuators, which are also tasked with delivering substantial torques. Robotic researchers are currently delving into four-quadrant operation, leveraging both electrical and mechanical means to store and release energy. This exploration opens avenues for energy-efficient, lightweight solutions to propel the next wave of wearable robots. Our workshop serves as a comprehensive overview of the latest achievements in actuation techniques suitable for bi-directional energy exchange, with the aim of propelling wearable robotics beyond current limitations and creating a connection with the haptics community, where bi-directional interaction is inherently present. The primary aim of this workshop is to establish a collaborative platform for the robotics and haptics community, fostering the exchange of promising methodologies and the identification of fundamental barriers. By uniting proponents and experts from diverse fields, we will cultivate an inclusive environment where every participant feels both welcome and valued. This collective effort aims to forge a shared understanding within the robotics community, paving the way for advancements that will shape the future of wearable robotics. Speakers Michael Goldfarb, Herman van der Kooij, Ana Luisa Trejos, Heike Vallery, Elliott Rouse, Simona Crea, Marcia K. O’Malley, Monica Malvezzi | https://www.ram.eemcs.utwente.nl/efficient-actuation-principles-and-bi-directional-energy-exchange-human-centric-and-wearable | HS10 |
Ethical Issues Related to Bionic Organs: From Techne to Ethos | Show Abstract Organizers Paolo Dario, Alberto Pirni Abstract The notion of bionic organs has long been associated with science fiction, but progress in the engineering field lends credibility to the transformation of this concept from science fiction into clinically feasible fully implantable devices. The Holy Grail of Medical Science is, in fact, making it possibile to transplant organs while overcoming problems of scarcity, compatibility and rejection. However, there are ethical issues related to this aspect that have not been extensively explored. Prostheses and artificial organs could, in fact, be considered ambiguous, straddling the line between inanimate objects and sharing the status of human bodies, which already have an ambiguous status, as both objects and subjects. Moreover, If body parts and organs are replaceable objects, one wonders what their moral status can be. The moral status is linked to the degree to which an organism deserves, at least, ethical consideration. The ethical issues related to the introduction of artificial organs tend to become controversial when it comes to replacing vital organs crucial to an individual’s life preservation, such as in the case of the heart. There is also an ethical dilemma concerning the potential removal of the artificial device. This issue, which we categorize under the term “removal ethics,” involves the fact that removing an organ also signifies the death of a person. How should one behave if the patient requests the removal of the device that allows their survival? Finally, if with artificial organs there is the possibility of having an increasing number of organs that overcome the issue of compatibility in the future, a problem of access to such resources will arise, along with a likely shift in the prioritization of the placement of artificial organs. Speakers Arianna Menciassi, Alberto Pirni, Stella Mosetti | https://sites.google.com/view/from-techne-to-ethos | HS8 |
Robot-Aided Somatosensory-Based Approaches for the Neurorehabilitation of Sensorimotor Function | Show Abstract Organizers Leonardo Cappello, Strahinja Dosen, Juergen Konczak Abstract This workshop aims to delineate the challenges and opportunities of somatosensory-based robotic rehabilitation therapies that aim to improve sensorimotor function. A primary objective of physical rehabilitation is to restore function after nervous system injury or to preserve it in neurodegenerative disease. While it is known that somatosensory information from the body’s periphery is essential for intact motor function, the processing of somatosensory signals is frequently compromised following acute brain or spinal cord injuries, or due to neurodegenerative disease. Altered processing of proprioceptive or tactile signals, hinders the relearning of fundamental motor functions such as the control of balance, walking, and reaching and grasping. This poses a significant obstacle to neurorehabilitation. Consequently, the restoration of motor function is more challenging when patients also experience somatosensory dysfunction. Although it is generally agreed upon that added or augmented sensory feedback can be beneficial for motor (re-)learning, the way to provide it most effectively in rehabilitation is still debated. The theme of this workshop concerns robotic devices that aim to support and enhance motor learning based on somatosensory inputs. Moreover, bidirectional human-machine interfaces that convey commands to the system as well as feedback to the user have immense potential to contribute to the restoration of functional independence across a broad spectrum of motor disabilities. Finally, the capacity of such technologies to amplify residual sensations or serve as substitutes for lost tactile and proprioceptive sense offers an additional avenue for improving the outcomes of rehabilitation therapy. Speakers Strahinja Dosen, Jürgen Konczak, Max Ortiz-Catalan, Leonardo Cappello, Marcia O’Malley | https://www.santannapisa.it/it/international-conference/robot-aided-somatosensory-based-approaches-neurorehabilitation-sensorimotor-function | HS14 |
Building Responsive Body-Machine Interfaces With Biosignals and Robotic Exoskeletons | Show Abstract Organizers Ava Chen, Keya Ghonasgi, Lauren Winterbottom, Aaron Young, Matei Ciocarlie Abstract Wearable robotic systems offer a unique capability to intricately monitor real-time physical human behavior by accessing biosignals encoded within. Previously challenging to measure, these in-situ signals are now directly accessible through sensors integrated into the wearable robot, such as encoders and force sensors. Advancements in data-driven methods for processing and analyzing this vast and valuable experimental data facilitate the understanding of human behavior and further allow the modeling and prediction of behavior over time. These systems also have the potential to offer feedback to device users that can support goal-oriented behavior change and improvements in function. This workshop aims to highlight the potential unlocked by biosignals measured by wearable systems. We do so by bringing together researchers—engineers and clinicians—across various applications of wearable robots, including task assistance, physical rehabilitation, and skill enhancement. By exploring the common ground of biosignals sensing and analysis, this workshop will examine the challenges and opportunities in leveraging biosignals for the development of responsive wearable robot control. Speakers will showcase successful engineering and clinical solutions that utilize biosignals in the context of functional applications. Particular emphasis will be placed on the challenges associated with interpreting measured biosignals, focusing on data-driven generalization and personalization of responsiveness. The workshop will highlight the engineering challenges in the measurement and analysis of biosignals alongside the clinical complexity of the user-centric application of encoded biosignal information. Speakers Deanna Gates, Kinsey Herrin, Laura Hallock, David Reinkensmeyer, Robert Howe, Stefano Tortora | https://sites.google.com/view/biorob24-ws-responsive-bmi | HS4 |
Sensorimotor Representation: Advancements in Learning Models for Robots | Show Abstract Organizers Egidio Falotico, Elisa Donati, Matej Hoffmann Abstract Recent advances in AI and computational neuroscience have introduced new concepts, methods and architectures for learning sensory representation and motor control to foster robot capabilities in unstructured environments. Developments in learning models span a wide spectrum of methodologies, embracing deep learning architectures and probabilistic models, and brain-inspired learning frameworks such as spiking neural networks. Rooted in the intricate neural processes of the human brain, such methodologies bestow robots with the remarkable capacity to learn from experience, discern patterns in sensory data, and execute precise motor responses. Notably, cognitive architectures for motor control extend this exploration into decision-making and action execution, drawing inspiration from human cognition. By providing an organized blueprint for learning and executing motor commands with efficiency and adaptability, these architectures mimic the intricate processes observed in biological systems where sensory information seamlessly translates into precise motor actions. The core motivation behind this workshop lies in comprehending and replicating these intricate processes, leveraging insights from the evolving field of neuroscience to advance the field of artificial intelligence and robotics. By providing a platform for comprehensive exploration, this workshop aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the convergence of AI, neuroscience, and robotics, pushing the boundaries of our understanding in sensory representation and motor control. Speakers Pablo Lanillos, Chiara Bartolozzi, Jun Tani, Mehdi Khamassi, Yulia Sandamirskaya | https://www.santannapisa.it/en/institute/biorobotics/brair-lab/workshop-ieee-biorob-2024 | HS7 |
Full day Workshops 1st of September (9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.)
Title | Description | URL | Room |
Nature Unleashed: Bio-Inspired and Bio-Hybrid Robotics Tackling Real-World Challenges | Show Abstract Organizers Gianluca Manduca, Niccolò Pagliarani, Luca Padovani, Antonio De Simone, Cesare Stefanini, Donato Romano Abstract Inspiring by nature and extracting its fundamental principles to address field challenges innovatively. This workshop delves into cutting-edge realms of bio-inspired and bio-hybrid robotics, where nature meets technology to birth innovative solutions. It aims to cover a wide range of topics, such as the design principles drawn from living organisms that give robots unprecedented adaptability, agility, and efficiency. It will focus on the development of biologically inspired solutions, in terms of actuation strategies, sensing, and on-board intelligence, exploring the potential of real-world species skills, toward the application into field robotics. Moving beyond the replication of animal locomotion strategies, the dialogue will encompass the integration of living organisms and artificial components, expanding the horizons of conventional robotics. Scrutinizing the potential of these systems in real-world applications, like environmental monitoring and ecosystems preservation, engaging discussions will revolve around, challenges, and prospects in this topic. This interdisciplinary workshop, where experts from different fields (biology, robotics and computer science) converge to unveil the untapped potential of nature-inspired robotics, sets out to chart the course towards a future where technology and biology will harmoniously coexist, revolutionizing the landscape of robotic innovation. It aims to unite early-stage and senior researchers and industry, featuring expert talks and as well as opportunities for attendees to share their knowledge and develop new ideas, on enabling robotics into the field and fostering innovation. Speakers Cecilia Laschi, Mark Cutkosky, Auke Ijspeert, Jorge Dias, Thomas Schmickl, Isabella Fiorello, Emanuela Del Dottore, Fabian Meder, Edoardo Datteri, Ronals Thenius, Wiktoria Rajewicz, Nikolaus Helmer, Giulia De Masi, Michael Yoshiharu Ishida | https://sites.google.com/view/natureunleashed-ws-biorob2024/home | HS5 |
Bioinspired and Biohybrid Soft Robots: Advanced Materials and Enabling Technologies | Show Abstract Organizers Edoardo Milana, Lorenzo Vannozzi, Lorenzo Migliorini, Paolo Milani, Miriam Filippi, Robert Kevin Katzschmann Abstract Future robots will be designed to assist and collaborate with humans, operating in complex, unstructured environments. Their artificial intelligence (AI) must draw inspiration from biological studies and extend beyond algorithms to their physical bodies. Biological bodies use soft materials for actuation, sensing, and control. Replicating this can involve designing synthetic systems inspired by biology or biohybrid systems emerging from the combination of biological and synthetic materials. Bioinspired synthetic systems aim to replicate the high integration and coupling of sensing-actuation-control in biological systems but are limited by material choice and micro-to-meso fabrication processes. Robots actuated via biological muscle tissues (bio-actuators) aim to surpass current robotic actuation constraints by using the unique abilities of living matter but still display limited performance and poor design freedom. This workshop will shed light on both approaches, highlighting recent trends and current challenges in bioinspired and biohybrid soft robotics. For bioinspiration, topics include exploring biodynamics, integrating sensory and actuation elements at the material level (physical self-awareness), employing neuromorphic components for adaptive control, and computational studies for efficient control. Emphasis is placed on design, materials, fabrication, and sustainability, as well as promoting renewable resources and energy-saving methods. Challenges in biohybrid robots include limited durability and actuation capability compared to native tissue and conventional actuation technologies. Enhancements in biofabrication, cell stimulation, microfluidics, and AI can optimise performance. Workshop experts will delve into enabling technologies for performant bioinspired systems and functional bio-actuators and discuss overcoming key challenges to unlock biological machines’ potential. Speakers Edoardo Milana, Paolo Milani, Francesca Borghi, Tayebeh Ameri, Naomi Nakayama, Majid Taghavi, Francesco Greco, Sandra Schloegl, Cosimo della Santina, Shoji Takeuchi, Sahar Salehi, Elena Martinez, Samuel Sanchez, Simone Bersini, Igor Balaz, Antisthenis Tsompanas, Stefano Lai, Vito Vurro, Marco Costantini | https://www.santannapisa.it/it/biorob2024/bioinspired-and-biohybrid-soft-robots | HS1 |
Towards Meaningful User Experiences in Human-Technology Interactions Through Interdisciplinary Co-Creation Methods | Show Abstract Organizers Irene Beck, Emese Papp, Salvatore Luca Cucinella, J. Micah Prendergast, Deborah Forster, Laura Marchal-Crespo, Lisa Lüneburg, Torben Söker, Bretschneider Maximilian Abstract Join us for a dynamic workshop as we tackle the challenges of designing human-technology interaction applications that engage user experiences through co-creation methods. Our goal is to sensitize BIOROB researchers to the psychological and emotional impact of the technology they are developing, without losing focus on technical challenges and while embracing the advantages of interdisciplinary collaboration. Drawing on findings from current research, we will focus on the importance of human-centered design by co-exploring diverging and convergent thinking in the problem and solution spaces of the Double-Diamond model. We will provide talks that link literature-based frameworks with tangible examples to better understand the factors to focus on in co-creating human-technology interactions, like body-worn devices. Examining their physical, cognitive, and emotional impacts, we will delve into the embodied perceptions of exoskeletons, emphasizing corporeal dimensions. We will discuss study results indicating that Embodied Digital Technologies shape social perceptions of warmth and competence and address the challenges of transferring IoT technologies from research into desirable products. From theory to practice, you will roll up your sleeves and actively engage in co-creation exercises. In collaboration with experts (e.g., end-users, psychologists, etc.), you will use selected tools and techniques (e.g., journey maps, personas, etc.) to empathize with end-users and better understand their needs, and, finally, co-create solutions in a rapid prototyping session. By emphasizing the process rather than focusing on the final design, we aim to demonstrate the value of interdisciplinary research and co-creation practices in shaping innovative applications that genuinely resonate with end-users. These speakers acknowledge the financial support by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research of Germany in the programme of “Souverän. Digital. Vernetzt.”. Joint project 6G-life, project identification number: 16KISK001K”. Speakers Maximilian Bretschneider, Emese Papp-Schmitt, Lisa-Marie Lüneburg, Deborah Forster, J. Micah Prendergast | https://www.mlnlab.nl/biorob-2024-workshop | HS12 |
A Multidisciplinary Overview of Upper Limb Prosthetics Development: Challenges and Opportunities | Show Abstract Organizers Enzo Mastinu, Patricia Capsi Morales, Levi Hargrove, Cristina Piazza, Strahinja Dosen, Jakob Lund Dideriksen Abstract Statistics indicate that approximately 2 million individuals in the United States are living with a major limb loss. This number is expected to rise substantially from the 1.6 million recorded in 2005 to an estimated 3.6 million by 2050, primarily due to vascular diseases linked to diabetes. Limb loss triggers biomechanical and neurological changes, limiting mobility and profoundly impacting overall quality of life. The development of successful bionic devices to address the significant psychological and rehabilitation challenges due to limb loss is a key research topic in robotics. It necessitates collaboration across various disciplines such as wearable robotics and mechatronic design, human-machine interfacing and artificial intelligence, as well as clinical and neuroscientific expertise. In this workshop, we endeavour to facilitate a comprehensive discussion on the topic by inviting experts from some of the abovementioned fields. The proposed workshop aims to bring together PhD students and researchers working on assistive and rehabilitation robotics. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view on the state-of-the-art from different perspectives, foster open discussions on technological and translational challenges, and ultimately, inspire future research directions to overcome such challenges. Speakers Liselotte Hermansson, Christian Cipriani, Marcia O’Malley, Tamar Makin, Tamim Asfour, Cristina Piazza, Levi Hargrove, Nathanael Jarrassé, Enzo Mastinu, Strahinja Dosen, Kianoush Nazarpour, Hyung-Soon Park | https://www.santannapisa.it/it/biorob2024/multidisciplinary-overview-upper-limb-prosthetics-development | HS4a |
Joint Discussions About Joint Actions and Interactions | Show Abstract Organizers Alessia Noccaro, Ashita Ashok, Ekaterina Ivanova, Jonathan Eden, Karsten Berns Abstract Joint actions, from dancing with a partner to supporting a child while they learn to ride a bike, are a large component of everyday life. As robots increasingly move into homes and shared working environments, the consideration of how to configure and manage human-robot joint actions is of growing importance. This fullday workshop will present state-of-the-art findings in joint action across robotics, psychology and behavioural neuroscience and discuss how this knowledge can be applied to active application areas including the use of a robot to regain mobility after a stroke or the use of exoskeletons for teaching the playing of a musical instrument to social perceptions of anthropomorphic robots. Complementing previous workshops on this topic, we will provide an all-round perspective of joint actions within both human-human and human-robot teams, giving hints for cross-sectional and transversal approaches. The workshop will bring together experts in both the study of human-human and human-robot joint actions. It will consist of five modules: i) joint action fundamentals in behavioural neuroscience and robotics; ii) applications in music learning and rehabilitation training; iii) adaptive interaction systems of humanoid robots; iv) application of robotic technologies around human values, experiences, and societal impact; v) discussion on innovations in language and vision-based interaction systems, and their integration in making robots more adaptive. Playing on the theme of joint actions, each module will be a joint presentation, where two speakers will each present their own research and findings on a common topic before the audience can take part in a moderated live Q&A panel discussion with those speakers. Finally, via a poster session, the audience can further engage with state-of-the-art research and discuss open questions and future challenges in bringing new applications to human-robot joint actions. Speakers Etienne Burdet, Gunther Knoblich, Domenico Formica, Vittorio Sanguineti, Dagmar Sternad, Nicole Salomons, Aleksandra Michalko, Emilio Trigili, Karsten Berns, Tamim Asfour, Patrick Holthaus, Guy Laban, Franziska Babel, Katie Winkel | https://rrlab.cs.rptu.de/en/conferences/biorob-2024 | HS9 |
Accelerating Wearable Robotics: Advancements in Mechatronic Prostheses and Exoskeletons and Rapid Control Prototyping | Show Abstract Organizers Marco Puliti, Herman van der Kooij, Giulia Bodo, Andrea Berettoni, Raffaele Giannattasio, Matteo Laffranchi, Massimo Sartori, Jose Gonzalez-Vargas, Strahinja Dosen Abstract The development of effective wearable robotic devices represents an endeavor that needs a deep understanding of diverse aspects spanning from rehabilitation medicine to biomechanics, engineering, and technology transfer. During this hands-on workshop the development of next-generation mechatronic prostheses and exoskeletons will be discussed in the context of three major aspects: scientific advances, clinical translation, and industrial exploitation. The workshop will provide talks from internationally recognized leaders in the fields. Talks will focus on the latest scientific advances in mechatronic design, rapid control prototyping, and sensory feedback towards the implementation of advanced devices that operate as an extension of the human body. The workshop includes two sections. In the morning one, the focus will be towards research in lower limb prosthetics, specifically on innovative concepts and novel results. The afternoon section will be related to the exploitation of rapid control prototyping (RCP) in both prostheses and exoskeletons early-stage design phases. Participants will explore the connection between hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations and RCP, gaining practical insights into the transition from model-based control design to real-time implementation. Invited researchers in the wearable robotics field will present practical examples illustrating how they approached designing control strategies using RCP, along with live demonstrations. Attendees will be engaged by motivating them to freely ask questions not only after but also during the provided lectures. This will foster direct interaction between the attendees and the experts. After the presentations, live demos will be provided to facilitate an in-depth discussion on the topics. The attendees will be divided into small groups to visit each demonstration booth in roundabout fashion. Each session will end with a panel discussion in which the questions collected during the presentations will be summarized and discussed. The workshop organizers will prepare 3-4 propositions in consultation with the invited speakers. Each proposition will be introduced, followed by a debate exchanging arguments in favor and against the proposition. At the begin and end of the debate attendees can vote on the proposition. Online tools will be used to facilitate the debate and voting. Speakers Elliott Rouse, Tommaso Lenzi, Michael Goldfarb, Robert Gregg, Massimo Sartori, Hugh Herr | https://sites.google.com/view/ws30-34-biorob2024 | HS13 |
Neuromusculoskeletal Twins – Lab vs. Clinical Reality | Show Abstract Organizers Kim Kristin Peper, Guillaume Durandau, Elisabeth Rose Jensen, Sami Haddadin, Daniel Florian Benedict Haeufle, Vikash Kumar, Seungmoon Song, Pierre Schumacher, Vittorio Caggiano Abstract This full-day workshop will delve into the current and future applications of human digital twins in clinical settings and human-robot interaction, aiming to unlock their potential. While experimental studies are crucial, progress often faces hurdles due to medical device regulations and ethical considerations, slowing down the development of new methods with clinical applications in rehabilitation and the design of innovative assistive devices and controllers. However, the landscape is evolving with the emergence of new open-source and proprietary biomechanical simulation frameworks that boast improved model complexity, movement versatility, and computational efficiency. Moreover, there’s a growing community spanning various research and application fields. This workshop will provide a platform for experts in assistive robotics, clinical rehabilitation, biomechanics, and industry to share their insights. Structured as a series of invited talks and panel discussions, it will integrate perspectives from clinical application, robotics, and musculoskeletal modeling. Additionally, alongside the speakers and discussion rounds, we will host a poster session dedicated to discussing modeling research at all stages of development. We’ll focus on identifying user needs and exploring critical last-mile challenges in making human digital twins impactful in reality. Speakers Matthias Hösl, Anne Koelewijn, Daniel Heitzmann, Firooz Salami, Greg Sawicki, Robert Riener, Jose Gonzalez-Vargas | https://sites.google.com/view/clinical-msk-workshop/home | HS12a |