‘BRIDGIT’ ’s intended use:
‘BRIDGIT’ is a personal robot for persons without arm- and hand function. This robot is the most recent and most functional robotic device for the handicapped. The device is commonly mounted on the user’s wheelchair (stand alone positioning is also possible) and assists in the execution of numerous activities of daily life. Preferred activities often are related to self feeding, self care or household chores. However, the number of possible tasks is almost endless - ‘BRIDGIT’ may therefore truly be called a real ‘personal robot’.
‘BRIDGIT’ ’s intended user:
‘BRIDGIT’ was developed for persons without residual arm- or hand function. Users commonly are unable to benefit from advanced dynamic arm supports. Users often are diagnosed with advanced muscular dystrophy, severe neurological disorders or high level spinal cord injury.
‘BRIDGIT’ ’s characteristics:
‘BRIDGIT’ has six degrees of freedom which contributes to its capabilities to reach, grasp and manipulate. As a personal robot ‘BRIDGIT’ is remarkably small and can therefore easily be used in small rooms. Due to its limited own weight – unlike other robots in the market – it hardly has any impact on the wheelchair’s driving characteristics. In order to optimise its reach ‘BRIDGIT’ is mounted on an advanced and integrated rails system. The robot moves over the rail system resulting in optimal positioning for each task. The rail system also allows for easy docking of the robot either on the back or front side of the wheelchair when not in use. This limits the outer dimensions of the system on the wheelchair and makes an easy passage of doorways, wheelchair storage and transportation possible! Different designs of the rail system can be supplied depending on the type of wheelchair and other equipment (e.g. ventilators) already present.
‘BRIDGIT’ ’s operating system is characterised by simplicity. In its standard configuration it only exists of three minimal joysticks and some buttons. Also easy to use scanning options are available. The fulll integration of the user interface in the wheelchair operating system is possible for a number of important wheelchair brands. The user interface was designed after the principle that the user should be able to be task oriented. There is no need to look at menu’s or check the status of the device during operation. The user can steer and rely on the movements of the gripper and concentrate on the task to be executed. As a consequence no intensive learning efforts are required. First use is usually learned within 30 minutes.
‘BRIDGIT’ ’s advantages at a glance:- Easy to use
- Unique operating methods
- Innovative rail system for bigger reach
- Use is easily learned – no intensive courses required
- Safe due to limited forces used and in built safety mechanisms
- Based on recent technology
- Durable though the use of industrial components
- Very precise in picking up and placing objects
- Limited energy consumption
- Silent
- Good transportability due to limted weight and dimensions
- Limited side effects on wheelchair driving characteristics
- Hardware and software adaptations to fit individual users possible
- Cost effective
Personal Robot ‘BRIDGIT’: designed to bridge the gap between the user and the environment
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