Roboligent Selected for $1.8MM STTR Phase II Contract by AFWERX
Roboligent, cutting-edge robotics company dedicated to designing precise robots that work seamlessly alongside humans announces it has been selected by AFWERX for a STTR Phase II contract in the amount of $1.8MM focused on Advanced Robotic-Assisted and Customized Rehabilitation Technology to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now on September 16, 2024, Roboligent will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America. “We are honored to have been selected for the second phase of this project, following our success in the first round,” said Roboligent’s CEO Dr. Bongsu Kim. “Our human-interactive rehabilitation robots have the potential to significantly improve the quality of care for the Air Force Medical Service.” “We are glad to collaborate with AFWERX and researchers at the Human Centered Robotics laboratory at the University of Texas to develop advanced rehabilitation control policies using supervised machine learning techniques.” The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government. About Roboligent Roboligent is a cutting-edge robotics company dedicated to designing precise robots that work seamlessly alongside humans. Our robots are equipped with advanced force-controlled technology, ensuring gentle and adaptable interactions in any environment. Our vision is to enhance productivity and deliver meaningful societal benefits through the widespread adoption of our advanced robotic technology. About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com About AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 325 military, civilian and contractor personnel at six hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 4,697 contracts worth more than $2.6 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: afwerx.com.
Revolutionizing Robotics: The Future with Roboligent
Our innovative, force-controlled robotic arms are transforming research by offering precision, safety, and adaptability. These collaborative robots are designed to work seamlessly alongside humans, enhancing productivity and safety. What Sets Roboligent Apart? At Roboligent, we pride ourselves on creating robotic solutions that cater to the unique needs of various industries. Here’s why we believe our state-of-the-art technology has the potential to transform industries: Precision and Safety Our robotic arms are powered by force-control, a technology that ensures unparalleled precision and safety. This makes them ideal for applications that require delicate handling and exact movements. Also, people less experienced with robots or kids can interact with these robots without worry of injury or safety concerns. Adaptability and Flexibility Roboligent robots are designed to be highly adaptable, capable of integrating into diverse work environments. Whether it’s automating mundane tasks, being used as a vehicle for research, or assisting in patient rehabilitation, our robots can easily adapt to meet specific needs. Collaboration and Efficiency Our robots are built to collaborate effectively with people, enhancing overall efficiency. By taking over repetitive and physically demanding tasks, Roboligent robots allow human workers to focus on more complex and creative aspects of their jobs. Applications of Roboligent Technology Our cutting-edge technology has been created for use across various sectors. Here are a few areas where Roboligent is making an impact: Physical Therapy Our robotic arms have been developed for use in physical therapy to assist patients with rehabilitation exercises. The precision and gentle touch of our robots ensure that patients receive the best care possible, aiding in faster and more effective recovery. Semiconductor Fabs In the semiconductor industry, precision is crucial. Our robots are capable of handling delicate components, ensuring high accuracy and reducing the risk of human error. This not only increases productivity but also maintains the integrity of sensitive materials. University Labs We are collaborating with university labs to provide advanced robotic solutions for research and development. With increasing research on reinforcement learning, imitation learning, and deep learning, our robotic arms provide a mode for this research to be conducted. Labs focusing on mobile manipulation, robotic manipulation, object detection, and pose detection can also find great use in our robotic arms. Our robots assist in various experiments and projects, pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Why Choose Roboligent? Choosing Roboligent means investing in the future of robotics. Our commitment to innovation and quality sets us apart from the competition. Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us: – Cutting-Edge Technology: We continuously invest in research and development to ensure our products remain at the forefront of the industry. Our team of engineers and researchers is dedicated to developing the most advanced robotic solutions, incorporating the cutting-edge technologies in robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. – Expert Support: Our team of experts is always ready to provide support and guidance, ensuring you get the most out of our technology. Whether you need help with installation, training, or troubleshooting, our support team is here to assist you every step of the way. – Custom Solutions: We understand that every industry has unique needs, which is why we offer customized solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Our engineers work closely with clients to develop solutions that meet their specific needs, whether it’s customizing the hardware, developing custom software, or integrating with existing systems. Conclusion Roboligent is more than just a robotics company; we are pioneers in creating solutions that enhance human capabilities and drive industry innovation. Our advanced robotic arms are setting new standards in precision, safety, and efficiency. Join us in revolutionizing the future of robotics. For more information about our products and services, visit Roboligent.com
The Rise of AI-Driven Robots: Reshaping Industries and Possibilities
Some have called the rise of artificial intelligence the catalyst for the next wave of the Industrial Revolution. The intersection of robotics and AI sets the stage for massive strides in innovation to take place. Let’s highlight a few of the potential applications of AI integration into robotics across the healthcare, space, and manufacturing assembly spaces. Robots that possess AI capabilities have the ability to perform dangerous, repetitive, laborious tasks. For example, manufacturing computer chips involves very small parts and hyper eye focus that can ultimately result in eyesight impairment. These cars, weighing up to a ton, are effortlessly hoisted by the robots with just a single arm—a testament to their impressive strength and precision. By assuming such heavy lifting duties, robots not only streamline warehouse operations but also mitigate the risk of accidents and injuries that humans might encounter when handling such heavy loads manually. The AI can handle the natural variability in the tasks. Robots equipped with AI can also help in tasks like sorting out different materials in the processing of recycled goods. Identifying pieces of glass, paper, metal, and plastics is time-consuming and labor-intensive for humans. AI-powered robots equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and machine learning algorithms can accurately identify and sort these materials much faster than human workers. They can distinguish between materials based on their color, shape, texture, and other physical characteristics, ensuring more precise sorting and reducing contamination in the recycling stream. These robots can work tirelessly around the clock without getting fatigued, leading to increased productivity in recycling facilities. AI can also assist when it comes to healthcare in terms of surgical surgery. While full autonomy in surgery is still in the early stages of development and implementation, AI-driven robots can already assist surgeons in various tasks, such as suturing, tissue manipulation, and instrument positioning, reducing surgeon fatigue and improving efficiency.AI-enabled surgical robots have the potential to revolutionize remote surgery and telemedicine, allowing surgeons to perform procedures from distant locations using robotic systems controlled via high-speed internet connections. This capability opens up new possibilities for delivering specialized surgical care to underserved areas, facilitating collaboration between experts, and providing timely interventions in emergency situations. Robots can also help with farming practices. Farmers often have to decipher the right time to harvest their crops. New robots are able to decipher which specific fruits and vegetables are ready to be picked. Its versatility extends beyond mere crop types to encompass navigating through diverse shapes, densities, and growth patterns, ensuring optimal harvesting efficiency and accuracy.The delicate nature of harvesting requires careful handling to ensure the quality and freshness of the produce, making it a critical aspect of farming operations. The intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics marks a pivotal moment in human history, reminiscent of the Industrial Revolution’s transformative impact. As we delve into the potential applications of AI integration across various sectors such as healthcare, space exploration, manufacturing, and agriculture, it becomes evident that the possibilities are boundless.
Roboligent wins Air Force AFWERX STTR Phase I
Roboligent announces its selection by AFWERX for a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I award. This Phase I grant will give us the opportunity to explore how our rehabilitation robot can improve outcomes for military rehabilitation. AFWERX’s STTR program provides a launchpad for small businesses like ours to enter the U.S. Military market. Roboligent’s solution features a unique degrees of freedom (7 DOF) robot, offering force-controlled, dynamically interactive, and safe motion-based therapies in a full 6D motional space. This novel design automates physical therapy, helping patients with neuromuscular problems, injuries, or impairments regain essential strength, range of motion, and functionality. “We believe that our human-interactive rehabilitation robots will help improve the quality of care for the Air Force Medical Service,” said Roboligent’s CEO, Dr. Bongsu Kim. “By enabling upper and lower-body rehabilitation with a single rehabilitation robot, we will be able to significantly reduce costs and provide more effective treatment by helping patients learn their movement patterns and strength, adapt to their condition, and safely perform repetitive exercise therapy.” The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now Roboligent will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America. “The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.” About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com. About AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 325 military, civilian and contractor personnel at six hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 4,697 contracts worth more than $2.6 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: afwerx.com.
Roboligent Joins Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS
Roboligent, a company that leads the robot service automation market based on its hyper-precise force control technology, announced today that it has been selected as a resident company of Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS @ TMC. JLABS is a global network of open innovation ecosystems, enabling and empowering innovators to create and accelerate the delivery of life-enhancing health and wellness solutions to patients around the world. Roboligent is seeking to accelerate the innovation of its first commercialized product, the Regen rehabilitation therapy automation robot. Regen is a rehabilitation therapy automation robot that helps patients with upper and lower limb rehabilitation needed due to stroke or other diseases by learning the patient’s movement patterns and strength, adapting to the patient’s condition, and safely performing repetitive exercise therapy. In addition, Regen can quantitatively evaluate the patient’s exercise ability, unlike the previous method in which a skilled therapist evaluated it in a qualitative way, and can increase the motivation for recovery by enabling tracking and observation of the patient’s exercise content and recovery process. Therefore, it has the advantage of being able to set a more systematic exercise therapy plan.
The Future of Robotics: Conventional Robots vs. Force-Control Robots
Conventional Robots vs. Force-Control Robots Robots are becoming increasingly common in our everyday lives. They are used in manufacturing, healthcare, and research, to name a few. However, there are two main types of robots: conventional robots and force-control robots. Conventional Robots Conventional robots are designed to repeat positions rigidly and blindly. They have no sensors to detect or measure forces, so they cannot tolerate variation and must be isolated from people. This means that they cannot be used in applications where there is a risk of contact with humans or other objects. Force-Control Robots Force-control robots, on the other hand, are responsive to their environment. They have force sensors that allow them to detect and measure forces, which makes them safe to work with and able to detect and adapt to variation. This makes them more versatile than conventional robots, and they can be used in a wider range of applications. Advantages of Force-Control Robots Force-control robots offer a number of advantages over conventional robots, including: Increased safety: Force-control robots can detect and react to unexpected forces, such as a person bumping into them. This makes them safer to work with than conventional robots. Increased flexibility: Force-control robots can adapt to changes in the environment, such as a surface that is not perfectly flat. This makes them more versatile than conventional robots. Improved quality: Force-control robots can apply the correct amount of force to a workpiece, which can improve the quality of the finished product. Force-control robots in healthcare, physical therapy. Robots based on force-control technology, like Optimo, have tremendous potential to improve the outcomes of robotic interventions. They enable smooth and compliant interactions, facilitating neurologically sound training. Roboligent’s force-control robot, combined with full or partial gravity assistance support, allows for resistance-free voluntary movement and provides smooth and safe assistance or resistance. This technology enables the realization of a variety of study-backed new exercises. For instance, it can be used to facilitate aquatic therapy, which is widely recognized by patients and therapists. One of the major challenges faced by clinical practitioners in occupational therapy is the physical labor involved. Supporting a patient’s arm with two hands and repeating task movements is a demanding process that limits the number of repetitions in practical scenarios. Optimo can address this issue by closely mimicking human-like assistive behaviors that are compliant, adaptable, and safe. The robot can be easily programmed using a teach-and-follow program mode. Therapists can program the robot’s movement by replicating their own movements without the robot, and the robot can then reproduce the memorized action with the desired compliance setting.
Robot Automation in Physical Therapy: Transforming Roles and Benefits for Humans
Robotic automation is revolutionizing various industries, presenting new opportunities and concerns. While fears persist that robots and AI will replace human jobs, historical evidence suggests otherwise. Despite initial apprehensions about personal computers and industrial robots, the overall number of job positions has continued to increase. Factors such as economic growth, the emergence of new industries, and enhanced productivity have contributed to the expansion of employment opportunities. In fact, automation plays a crucial role in enabling societal advancements like transitioning to a 4-day workweek. Physical therapy, with its time-consuming and labor-intensive nature, is an ideal candidate for automation, particularly due to therapist shortage and reduced reimbursement. Some people worry that robots will replace human therapists, but this is unlikely to happen. Robots will not be able to replace the human touch and compassion that is essential for effective physical therapy. Instead, robots and human therapists will work together to provide the best possible care for patients. As physical therapy will see a shift towards greater reliance on robots, therapists will take care of more patients simultaneously, focusing more on patient interaction and knowledge-based tasks such as diagnosis, goal-setting, and intervention planning. Over time, therapists will play a role in streamlining these processes, making them more clinically effective and efficient. As we accelerate automation in physical therapy, all stakeholders will benefit. Patients will be able to undergo more intensive interventions within the same insurance coverage period, leading to faster and better recovery. Doctors will have access to a wealth of scientific data. This will lead to knowledge expansion on neurological and kinesiological principles, and the development of new rehabilitation protocols. Insurance companies will witness reduced expenses as patients recover faster and achieve better outcomes. Healthcare providers will experience increased revenue outweighing the additional costs associated with implementing robots. The emergence of new robot providers will create job opportunities within the field. Contrary to concerns about job loss, the number of therapist positions is expected to continue increasing in the perceivable future. The demand for physical therapy services is growing at a pace that surpasses the supply of therapists. Furthermore, as shorter workweeks become the norm, automation will become increasingly essential to meet the rising demand for care. The integration of robotics and automation in physical therapy holds tremendous potential for improving patient outcomes, enabling more efficient workflows, and contributing to the overall growth and development of the field. While concerns about job displacement persist, historical trends and the increasing demand for therapy services suggest that the number of therapist positions will continue to rise. As automation becomes an integral part of our work landscape, we must embrace the opportunities it presents to enhance the quality of care and create a more sustainable healthcare system.
Showcase our robot on site in Texas Regional Robotics Symposium
Our team had the opportunity to showcase our rehabilitation robot to graduate students, researchers, and professors majoring in robotics at the Texas Regional Robotics Symposium (#TEROS) hosted by Rice University last week. We deeply appreciate their interest and support and thank TEROS for inviting us. https://teros-texas.github.io/ #TEROS #rehabilitationrobot #physicaltherapy #assistantrobot The University of Texas at Austin #mechanicalengineering #robotics #alumni
The Advantages of Assist-as-Needed Protocols in Robot-Assisted Physical Therapy
Robot-assisted Physical Therapy: The Benefits of Assist-as-Needed Protocol Robot-assisted physical therapy has gained popularity in recent years as a means to aid stroke patients and other populations in faster and more successful recoveries. Traditional physical therapy methods, as well as some robotic methods, may involve repetitive exercises and passive riding, such as the use of passive range of motion exercises for patients with paralysis. While these methods are beneficial in certain cases, they may not be as effective in promoting active engagement and voluntary effort during later stages of stroke rehabilitation. This is where the assist-as-needed protocol in robot-assisted physical therapy becomes critical, as it encourages voluntary effort and enables more efficient neuroplasticity of stroke patients. What is the Assist-as-Needed Protocol? The AAN protocol is a smart, adjustable assistance approach that aims to encourage voluntary effort during physical therapy. Unlike other robotic rehabilitation methods that provide continuous assistance, the AAN protocol adjusts the level of assistance based on the patient’s rehab exercise performance. By doing so, it encourages patients to put in more effort and engage their muscles more actively, leading to better outcomes in the long run. The AAN protocol also offers individualized support, ensuring that each patient receives the right level of assistance based on their abilities and needs. How does the AAN Protocol Work? The AAN protocol works by using advanced robotics to provide tailored assistance to patients. The robot measures the patient’s performance during rehab exercises and adjusts the level of assistance accordingly. For example, if a patient is struggling to perform a particular movement, the robot can provide more assistance to help them complete it. If the patient is performing well, the robot can reduce the assistance, allowing them to make voluntary efforts to complete the movement. This way, the patient is always challenged at the right level, leading to better engagement and motivation during therapy. The Benefits of the AAN Protocol The AAN protocol has been shown to have several benefits for patients undergoing physical therapy. First, it encourages voluntary effort, which is critical in provoking neuroplasticity in stroke patients more effectively. Voluntary effort involves patients’ active participation and engagement during therapy, leading to better long-term outcomes. Second, the AAN protocol offers individualized support, ensuring that each patient receives the right level of assistance based on their abilities and needs. This way, patients are more likely to make progress and improve their physical function. Finally, the AAN protocol can lead to better cost-effectiveness, as patients are more likely to complete their rehab exercises and require less follow-up care. The Evidence Supporting the AAN Protocol There is a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of the AAN protocol in stroke patients and other populations. For example, a recent study published in the IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering found that stroke patients who underwent robot-assisted gait training using the AAN protocol showed significant improvements in their treadmill gait performance with over-ground walking transfer. Another article published in the Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports reviewed various AAN protocols used in robotic rehabilitation for upper limbs, which led to better motor function recovery. Many other studies suggest that the AAN protocol can improve physical therapy outcomes and lead to better long-term outcomes for patients. Conclusion Robot-assisted physical therapy using the AAN protocol can offer numerous benefits for patients undergoing rehab. By encouraging voluntary effort and offering individualized support, the AAN protocol can help patients make progress and improve their physical function. Additionally, the AAN protocol can lead to better cost-effectiveness, reducing the need for follow-up care. Optimo incorporates cutting-edge AAN protocols in the upper/lower extremity and gait training modules. If you or a loved one is undergoing physical therapy, consider talking to your healthcare provider about using robotic therapy with AAN protocols for better outcomes.
Why do we need force-controlled robots for rehabilitation?
The majority of current robots utilize position/velocity control technology, which limits patients’ voluntary movement efforts due to the nature of being restricted to repetitive, pre-determined kinematic patterns. Force control robots are designed to interact with humans in a safe and controlled manner. They use sophisticated sensors and control algorithms to adjust their force output based on the force feedback they receive from the environment. This allows them to exert the appropriate amount of force when interacting with people, while minimizing the risk of injury or damage. In the context of interacting with humans, force control robots can be used in a variety of applications, such as rehabilitation, physical therapy, and assistance with daily activities. For example, a force control robot can help a person recover from a stroke or other physical injury by providing targeted resistance training that is tailored to their specific needs. The robot can adjust its force output in real-time to ensure that the person is not being over-exerted or at risk of injury. Another important application of force control robots is in the field of prosthetics. With the use of sensors and control algorithms, prosthetic limbs can be designed to provide the appropriate amount of force for different tasks, such as grasping objects or walking. This can greatly enhance the mobility and independence of people with limb amputations, allowing them to perform daily activities with greater ease and confidence. In addition to their practical applications, force control robots can also have a significant impact on the relationship between humans and robots. By providing a safe and responsive interaction experience, force control robots can help to bridge the gap between humans and machines, fostering a greater sense of trust and acceptance. However, there are also challenges associated with the use of force control robots in interacting with humans. One of the major challenges is ensuring that the robots are able to respond quickly and accurately to the force feedback they receive from the environment. This requires sophisticated sensing and control algorithms, which can be difficult and expensive to develop. Another challenge is designing the robots to be intuitive and easy to use for people with different levels of physical ability and cognitive function. This requires careful consideration of factors such as the robot’s size, shape, and interface, as well as its overall behavior and communication style. Overall, force control robots have the potential to greatly enhance the safety, effectiveness, and acceptance of human-robot interactions. However, their development and deployment will require ongoing research and development, as well as careful consideration of ethical, social, and practical considerations.