Pluto employs a single motor with multiple attachments to train different hand functions, inspired by the design of a mixer grinder⁴. It has already been used by over 1,000 patients across nine clinics in India, showing promising results. The technology has been licensed to Thryv Rehab Solutions for commercialization.
This development is a significant step forward in neurorehabilitation, potentially enhancing the quality of life for many stroke survivors.
This project was led by Prof. Sivakumar Balasubramanian from the Department of Bioengineering at CMC Vellore and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras.
Pluto was developed in collaboration with the Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Neurological Sciences at CMC Vellore. Initial funding came from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, with additional support from CSR grants provided by Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited ( TBAL) and Tata Elxsi Limited, which further enhanced PLUTO’s technological readiness.
The innovation has secured an Indian patent, with patents pending in the US and Canada.
Pluto, the physiotherapy robot, stands out in several ways compared to other rehabilitation devices:
1. Affordability: Pluto is designed to be cost-effective, making it accessible to a broader range of patients, including those in rural or low-income areas. Many advanced rehabilitation devices can be prohibitively expensive.
2. Portability: Unlike many bulky rehabilitation machines, Pluto is portable and can be used in various settings, including at home. This flexibility is crucial for continuous therapy, which i often needed for effective stroke recovery.
3. User-Friendly Design: Inspired by the simplicity of a mixer grinder, Pluto uses a single motor with multiple attachments to train different hand functions. This design makes it easy to use without extensive training.
4. Proven Effectiveness: Pluto has already been tested on over 1,000 patients across nine clinics in India, showing promising results. This real-world usage provides a strong foundation for its effectiveness.
5. Customization: The device can be tailored to individual patient needs, which is essential for personalized rehabilitation plans.
In comparison, other rehabilitation devices might offer more advanced features or higher precision but often at a higher cost and with less portability. Pluto's balance of affordability, portability, and effectiveness makes it a valuable tool for stroke rehabilitation.
Pluto, the physiotherapy robot, stands out in several ways compared to other rehabilitation devices:
1. Affordability: Pluto is designed to be cost-effective, making it accessible to a broader range of patients, including those in rural or low-income areas. Many advanced rehabilitation devices can be prohibitively expensive.
2. Portability: Unlike many bulky rehabilitation machines, Pluto is portable and can be used in various settings, including at home. This flexibility is crucial for continuous therapy, which i often needed for effective stroke recovery.
3. User-Friendly Design: Inspired by the simplicity of a mixer grinder, Pluto uses a single motor with multiple attachments to train different hand functions. This design makes it easy to use without extensive training.
4. Proven Effectiveness: Pluto has already been tested on over 1,000 patients across nine clinics in India, showing promising results. This real-world usage provides a strong foundation for its effectiveness.
5. Customization: The device can be tailored to individual patient needs, which is essential for personalized rehabilitation plans.
In comparison, other rehabilitation devices might offer more advanced features or higher precision but often at a higher cost and with less portability. Pluto's balance of affordability, portability, and effectiveness makes it a valuable tool for stroke rehabilitation.
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