HAptic simulator for SPAsticity Training – HASPA

This project aims to design and build a haptic simulator for learning a common gesture performed by physiotherapists on the lower limb: the evaluation of spasticity which corresponds to the involuntary resistance to an imposed movement. The objective is to offer a complete haptic simulator reproducing the different degrees of resistance of the lower limb and allowing the evaluation of learners. Indeed, the current initial training of young physiotherapists is done by mentoring and depends on the experience of the instructor and the evaluation of the training remains subjective.
In order to define the needs more precisely, part of the study will focus on the analysis of professional practice. This will be studied not only qualitatively by an ergonomic and didactic analysis but also quantitatively by proposing an objectification of the expert gesture and its biomechanical characteristics. Finally, the prototype produced will make it possible to collect expert and learner data with the aim of proposing educational scenarios.
The prototype will be designed in close partnership with clinicians. The mechatronic design of the simulator will be global and will integrate a physical structure of the simulator as well as actuators and sensors allowing the recording of gestures with a view to their evaluation. Innovative actuators will be used in order to offer different types of haptic rendering and thus cover a maximum of pathology in order to offer the most complete training possible.
Validation of the simulator will be carried out throughout the development of the simulator and will allow preliminary measurement campaigns to be carried out to show the value of a learning simulator for young clinicians.
This work may be used to develop simulators for other limbs. From a general point fo view, the global methodology developed in this project may be used to develop other training simulators.