Creativeness and innovativeness: The assistance for the elderly and Parkinson's patients has always been utterly demanding, many robots assisted feeding RAF are designed to support Parki
INTRODUCTION
Research objectives
The research objectives of the topic CareFeeder for the healthcare of elder people and Parkinson’s patients are:
• Create a feeding machine for the elderly and individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• Develop features allowing the feeding machine to assist multiple users simultaneously.
• Evaluate the economic feasibility of CareFeeder, considering manufacturing costs and potential adoption in care facilities.
• Examine the scalability and adaptability of CareFeeder in different environments, considering variations in user needs and facilities.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Methods and devices for Parkinson's patients and the Elders
Supporting eating for Parkinson's patients and the elderly involves various methods, such as using assistive eating devices and providing meal preparation assistance Modifying food textures and creating a safe mealtime environment are essential for enhancing the dining experience Encouragement and individual support, along with establishing regular eating schedules, can significantly improve nutrition Additionally, offering supportive seating and promoting mealtime socialization fosters a more enjoyable atmosphere Utilizing assistive technology and seeking expert advice further contribute to effective meal management for these individuals.
Parkinson's disease and aging pose significant challenges to mobility, dexterity, and quality of life However, advancements in medical technology and innovative strategies have resulted in a variety of methods and devices designed to assist Parkinson's patients and the elderly in managing daily activities These solutions, ranging from medication management to mobility aids, provide hope and enhance functionality for individuals dealing with these conditions.
Self-feeding can be particularly difficult for individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly due to motor impairments, tremors, and reduced dexterity To address these challenges and enhance independence during mealtime, various methods and strategies have been developed These include adaptive techniques, environmental modifications, and innovative approaches designed to improve the self-feeding experience for Parkinson's patients and older adults.
Enhancing the self-feeding experience for Parkinson's patients and the elderly can be achieved through a blend of environmental modifications, adaptive techniques, assistive devices, and mealtime assistance By customizing interventions to meet individual needs and abilities, we can foster greater independence and enjoyment during meals.
Innovative assistive technology has produced specialized devices that help Parkinson's patients and the elderly with self-feeding, tackling the challenges posed by motor impairments, tremors, and reduced dexterity These devices promote independence and dignity during meals, including adaptive utensils, non-slip tableware, weighted cups, plate guards, and assistive eating clothing.
The advancement of self-feeding methods and devices has greatly enhanced the quality of life for Parkinson's patients and the elderly These innovative technologies effectively tackle challenges such as hand tremors and limited dexterity, enabling individuals to preserve their independence and dignity during meals By offering stability and control, these devices empower users to enjoy a better quality of life Ongoing research and development in assistive technology promise further improvements in self-feeding solutions and other daily living activities.
Applications of self-feeding robot
Figure 2 Ỉ: Active robot-assistedfeeding with a mobile manipulator [8]
The PR2 system offers active feeding assistance through visually-guided movements that autonomously scoop or stab food and deliver it to the user's mouth It features a user-friendly graphical interface designed for individuals with motor impairments, allowing them to easily control three distinct subtasks: food acquisition (scooping/slabbing), spoon-wiping to remove excess food, and the delivery of food While scooping and stabbing are grouped for their similar function of food acquisition, they utilize different tools, motions, and types of food Additionally, the system incorporates advanced safety features that actively monitor and prevent potential anomalies during operation.
The system features both software and hardware interfaces that enable caregivers to easily switch out utensils and bowls based on the food type Additionally, users can access the system's interface through a web browser, which enhances accessibility across various devices.
This article outlines the operational procedure of a robot designed to assist individuals with reduced motor function in eating tasks, such as consuming yogurt with a spoon Positioned to reach the user's mouth, the robot can be controlled via a Graphical User Interface (GUI) by users who interact using a mouse cursor, finger movements, or head/eye tracking devices Users can initiate specific subtasks and have the ability to pause and resume the robot's operations as needed A multi-faceted supervisory control system works alongside these subtasks, ensuring that if the robot detects any significant deviation from normal operations, it will halt and return to the initial position of the subtask Importantly, the robot keeps the spoon horizontal during movement to prevent food spillage.
The OBI robot represents a significant advancement in automatic feeding assistance, specifically designed for individuals with reduced mobility or difficulties in eating Its primary objective is to enhance users' quality of life by integrating robotics technology with innovative design for a flexible and efficient dining experience Capable of autonomous feeding, the OBI robot can retrieve food from a bowl or plate and gently deliver it to the user's mouth The robot's adaptable arm and intelligent control system allow it to accommodate various food types and meet individual needs Additionally, the user-friendly interface ensures convenient interaction and control, while an integrated system of sensors and safety devices guarantees a safe and effective automatic feeding process.
The 6-DOF robotic arm has been developed in the United States This product utilizes a divided bowl with four compartments as trays Each lime the user presses the interface button, the bowl rotates, allowing the robotic arm to access different food sections Upon receiving the command to retrieve food, the robotic arm scoops the food using a spoon along predefined paths Subsequently, it delivers the food to the user's mouth, with the positioning guided by the caregiver The operational principle of the OBI Robot relies on the harmonious integration of fundamental infrastructure and advanced technology to optimize the process of automated feeding assistance for individuals with reduced mobility The flexible robotic arm of the OBI, equipped with multidirectional sensors, gently and safely accepts food from a bowl or plate Before commencing the process, the sensor system of the OBI locates the user, determining the precise position of the mouth to optimize food delivery Utilizing an intelligent control system, the OBI makes decisions regarding the optimal movement of the robotic arm based on information [9].
Obi is a customizable device that enables users to effortlessly select from four food compartments and control the timing of food delivery to their mouth It can be activated by any body part capable of triggering a switch, ensuring a simple and intuitive user experience that puts control in the hands of the user.
The Neater Eater Robotic is an innovative eating aid that promotes independence and dignity for individuals who can chew and swallow Its portable design allows for easy use in various environments, including restaurants, making family dining more inclusive With customizable settings and compatibility with different control methods like touch screens and switches, the Neater Eater Robotic ensures a user-friendly experience for everyone.
The Neater Eater Robotic employs cutting-edge adaptive eating technology to enhance mealtime convenience and foster independence This innovative device requires no complex engineering setup and features customizable settings to suit individual preferences, including automatic spoon wiping, adjustable food scooping, and a sauce dipping function.
Bestic is an innovative eating assistance device designed for individuals who want to eat independently rather than being fed by others This user-friendly device is ideal for those with limited arm and hand mobility due to accidents, neurological diseases, or congenital disorders It is particularly beneficial for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and the elderly who may require assistance during meals With its sleek design, smooth motion, and quiet operation, Bestic is perfect for enhancing the dining experience at the table.
Meals play a crucial role in our overall well-being, and users of the product report significant relief and happiness from the independence it offers in eating With the machine, individuals can choose which food items to lift from their plate to their mouth, utilizing a keypad or joystick for control.
The Mealtime Partner Assistive Dining Device (frequently referred to by users as the
The Partner is designed to accommodate a wide range of commonly enjoyed table foods, including peas, mashed potatoes, breakfast cereals, puddings, and fruit cocktails, all of which can be easily served using a spoon or fork It also effectively handles larger items like meats, pizza, cookies, and salads when they are cut into bite-sized pieces Additionally, the Partner supports texture-controlled diets and promotes food self-selection, allowing individuals to eat at their own pace, which may help address issues of undernourishment and gastric problems.
Figure 2.6: Meallime Pa finer Robot [14]
The Mealtime Partner is an assistive dining device designed to promote dignity for individuals with disabilities who are unable to feed themselves Unlike traditional feeding devices associated with animals, this innovative technology emphasizes the importance of independent eating for those in need.
THE DESIGN OF THE ROBOT
Design Overview
The CareFeeder is designed to manipulate feeding utensils using a robotic arm, allowing for simple communication with users and control via devices like phones and iPads Key design considerations include model configuration, user height, bowl and food weight, and the distance between the food tray edges and the table Additionally, biometric data of an average adult seated, such as mouth and eye heights, and the head-to-mouth distance in relation to the table, were taken into account For the basic configuration, we based our measurements on a Vietnamese individual, assuming the ability to move their neck for optimal mouth positioning.
Figure 3.Ỉ: Proposal based on CareFeeder
The automated food delivery system is designed to serve meals to elderly individuals or hospital patients, featuring a robot for food delivery and a tray that alternates serving dishes in individual bowls A compact and flexible robotic arm, mounted on a fixed base and integrated with an automated conveyor, facilitates the sequential serving of dishes inspired by restaurant rotary tables This system includes a round turntable with removable trays holding three 250ml bowls, which simplifies cleaning and maintenance The motor-driven turntable rotates clockwise to serve meals efficiently, reducing the robotic arm's degrees of freedom (DoF) to enhance usability and lower manufacturing costs A 2-DoF robotic arm with an attached spoon fulfills the essential requirement for fully automated meal service The integration of the robotic arm with the food tray maintains a compact design, and 3D modeling during development helps identify design challenges, ensuring the final product meets the needs of an automated food delivery system.
The design of the index tray and the base
In traditional Southeast Asian culinary culture, meals typically consist of multiple savory dishes and a soup, served in individual bowls rather than on a single plate, reflecting a unique dining practice The bowls, particularly in Vietnam, known as "chén gạch," are similar to Chinese "Wan" bowls, with a standard capacity of 150ml to 250ml For individuals over 50, the National Institute of Nutrition recommends a daily caloric intake of about 2000kcal for men and 1600kcal for women, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients Technological advancements, such as the CareFeeder automated feeding system, present innovative solutions for nutritional management, particularly for the elderly and those with health conditions This device features a three-compartment tray, each holding 250ml and designed to provide around 570kcal per meal, allowing caregivers to customize food portions and nutritional content based on individual health needs, thus enhancing dietary management.
We have developed a rotating food tray to enhance the efficiency of robotic operations, based on real-world observations After evaluating three design concepts, we chose the third design for its user-friendly simplicity This tray allows users to easily rotate and select their preferred food bowl, featuring interchangeable bowls and a system that is easy to clean Spoons are equipped with holders to maintain their proper positions, and the entire setup allows for the quick detachment of the bowls and tray for hassle-free cleaning after meals.
Figure 3.2: The design concepts of the index tray
This study focuses on developing a compact food dispensing system that enhances efficiency by optimizing physical space and streamlining production processes, ultimately reducing associated costs.
Figure 3.3: 2D design of the tray
The incorporation of a rotatable food tray in CareFeeder optimizes its operational footprint by reducing the Degrees of Freedom (DOF) required for the robot arm during food transportation Current market solutions mainly include built-in rotating trays connected to the robot arm and standalone options For users with Parkinson's disease and the elderly, prioritizing convenience, safety, and user-friendliness leads us to prefer the integrated rotating tray design This choice highlights the necessity of selecting solutions that meet specific user needs and enhance functionality By streamlining the feeding process, the integrated rotating food tray ensures a seamless and intuitive interaction, significantly improving the overall effectiveness of CareFeeder's operation.
Figure 3.4: 3D design of the tray
3.2.2 The design of the base
Choosing a DC motor for the food tray's rotational functionality is driven by its numerous advantages, including a straightforward design, ease of use, and flexible control This flexibility enhances system performance while ensuring stability and reliability during the operation of the rotating tray.
Based on the previously designed turntable size, we have designed a base that supports and protects the electrical equipment inside:
Figure 3.5: 2D design of the base
Figure 3.6: 3D design of ihe base with DC motor at the center
CareFeeder grip arm design
Informed by the theoretical framework from Chapter 2, we have developed a customized 2-degree-of-freedom (2DOF) arm inspired by miniature industrial robots This 2DOF design not only simplifies operation but also enhances the system's performance, offering a robust and flexible control experience By minimizing complexity, the arm reduces production costs while improving interaction with its environment Its soft curves and elegant design promise an excellent user experience Assuming a user is seated 350mm from the table, the arm is designed with a hypothetical operating radius of 500mm.
• Length of the link 3: 70mm
• Length of the link 2: ~300mm
Figure 3.9: 3D design of the grip arm
Material selection and machining method
The rapid advancement of 3D printing technology enables the design of complex shapes using diverse materials, each with unique properties tailored for specific applications The team plans to manufacture the CareFeeder primarily from plastic materials through 3D printing.
After conducting a thorough technical analysis of various plastics, the research team selected PLA plastic as the primary material for their project Its versatility, affordability, exceptional durability, and eco-friendliness make PLA an ideal choice, effectively meeting all project requirements.
Calculation and selection of motors
3.5.1 Calculation and selection of RC motors
Gravitational acceleration 9.8 (m/s) Axial transmission performance 1
_ Mass of section 2 (without engine) _ _ 320 (g) _
Mass of section 3 (without engine) m3 220(g)
Radius of rotation center r 24.04 (mm)
To ensure design uniformity in our system, we will focus on calculating a motor that can withstand the maximum moment, assuming gravity acts as a uniformly distributed force on the body Consequently, we will select the same type of motor for all other components.
Moment of inertia (I): l=|mxr = |x 0.62 X 0.02404 = 4.96 X 10-3 (kg m2) (2)
0 = 176 (deg) External force moment (T_ex ter naif.
^total ^dynamic 4" ^gravity 4" ^external I X ữ T ^gravity "1“ ^external
Figure 3.Ỉ 1: Calculation of the arm
In order for the operating arm to operate easily, we choose a motor with greater torque and speed than necessary. results:
Engine type RC servo LD-1501
Traction force moment max 17 (kg.cm)
3.5.2 Calculation and selection of DC motor
_ Number of degrees of freedom _ _1 DOF (Degree of Freedom)
Total weight: Suppose the empty ceramic cup weighs 0.855 kg, all 3 cups are full of water, and the mass of the unloaded turntable is 0.452kg.
Mass = volume X density = 0.000342 m3 X 1000 kg/m3 = 0.342 (kg) m = (0.342 + 0.855) X 3 + 0.45 = 4.041 (kg)
Friction force with the sole:
P=FxVmax=9.53676 X 0.5 = 4.76838(w) Engine speed: ndc = 27Ĩ X 60 = 11.459(rpm)Selected results:
• Maximum operating radius of the robot arm: 50 (cm)
• Use RC motor for robot arm and DC motor for turntable
• Maximum rotation angle of joint 1: 176 (degrees)
• Maximum rotation angle of joint 2: 160 (degrees)
• The rotating angle of the tray is 360 degrees clockwise
Kinematics of the robot
The robot's kinematics is engineered to fulfill practical needs, featuring a robotic arm with two degrees of freedom (2DoF) and a food tray that offers one degree of freedom (1DoF) through its rotational capability This kinematic design allows for precise control of the arm's movements and the tray's rotation, facilitating the effective grasping and serving of food to users.
This configuration allows the robotic arm to manipulate the food accurately while the rotating tray provides access to different dishes The combination of 2DoF for the arm and
The I DoF tray robot enhances the food-serving process by providing both flexibility and efficiency Its innovative kinematic design is crucial for ensuring smooth and reliable operation, allowing for seamless food delivery to users.
Table 6: D-H (Denavit-Hartenberg) Link Parameters of Care Feeder
The forward kinematics of the machine are shown below in equation (1):
The coordinate is defined with the below equations (2): px = Li cos 01 - L2 sin (0J + 02)
From the above equations, the velocity matrix can be determined with the
-Li.sinOx + L2.cos(6x + 02) - L2.cos(0i + 02)1 ới
The inverse Jacobian matrix is:
-Li.sin Oi + 12.005(0! + e2) - L2.cos(0i + 02)1 1 rVxi
Lj cos 0! — L2 sin (0! + 02) - L2 sin (0! 4- 02) ] lvyj
The values of Px and Py from the robot's dynamic problem and inverse kinematics were calculated to determine the rotation angles needed to reach any coordinate within the robot's workspace To simplify the calculation equations, the sum of squares of Px and Py was utilized Subsequently, the angle value θ2 was derived.
For each of the values 02, trigonometric formulas are changed as:
- L2 cos (02) Feos (00 L-1 — L2 sin (02) sin (Qj)
Values of sin ( 0j) and cos (0J is defined by using the Cramer formula.
ALGORITHMS AND CONTROL SOFTWARE
Algorithm flowchart
Figure 4.2: Flowchart of the algorithm
The CareFeeder Machine operates through a structured algorithm and control method, as illustrated in the system block diagram Upon powering on, the system initiates a code segment to connect the control application with CareFeeder, accessible via smartphone or computer If the connection fails, the application displays a "not connection" message and persistently attempts to reconnect The system awaits user input, offering two options: Manual or Mode Speak In Manual mode, the central control unit processes the user's choice to select a dish or initiate feeding In Mode Speak, the unit utilizes a pre-trained AI model to recognize voice keywords, determining if the command pertains to food selection or feeding When a food selection is made, the control unit activates the DC motor through the L298N motor control circuit to dispense the chosen food For feeding commands, the microcontroller calculates coordinates using robotic kinematics and sends control pulses accordingly.
2 RC servo motors to deliver the food to the pre-determined position.
The system logs all user selections and continues to perform the specified operations in a cycle until the food tray is empty, ultimately sending a meal end notification to the control application.
Control software
Figure 4.3: The structure system of Care Feeder
To operate the CareFeeder, users need a smartphone or computer with the control application installed They should prepare three meals, including options like rice, soup, minced meat, or porridge, and place them in the food tray The guardian will set the food properties in the app, specifying whether the food is liquid or solid, and arrange it on plates Users can control the device using a remote or by logging into the app to select either Manual or Voice control mode In Manual mode, five buttons correspond to the three meals and two buttons for moving the robot arm up or down Voice mode utilizes five keywords: rice, soup, other food, up, and down After a button press or voice command, the app sends a request to the HTTP server, which the microcontroller processes according to the specified algorithm Operating the CareFeeder is straightforward, user-friendly, and significantly enhances daily life.
Circuit diagram
The power supply converts 220V AC mains power into 12V DC at 10A, which serves as the Vcc and GND for the circuit This 12V current is regulated down to 7V using the XL4015 DC Voltage Regulator Circuit (5A) to power two RC servo motors, whose signal wires are directly connected to a Raspberry Pi for control signals Additionally, the 12V supply powers the L298N for a DC motor, with two signal wires also linked to the Raspberry Pi, enabling it to control the motor's rotation direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise.
RESULTS AND EXPERIMENTS
Achieved results
The results were achieved after completing the CareFeeder model.
Figure 5 J: CareFeeder after completion and deployment
The team has effectively finalized the design and control elements of the CareFeeder, ensuring that its motion trajectory adheres to the pre-established path This successful alignment indicates that the CareFeeder is now prepared for deployment.
An easy-to-use application, integrating two features, automatic (voice command) and manual (buttons).
Figure 5.2: Mobile phone control application
• In automatic mode: Users will utilize voice commands using the "SPEAK
MODE" to control and select between food options and the "FEED and RESET'.
• In manual mode: Users will employ buttons, with three buttons in the menu corresponding to three designated food options Two buttons in the status correspond to two states:
The CareFeeder offers a convenient way to select meals, featuring three buttons for rice, soup, and other dishes Users can easily choose their desired dish by pressing the corresponding button and patiently waiting for the CareFeeder to rotate to their selection.
■ FEED: This button is used to scoop food from the selected dish and deliver it to the user's mouth.
■ RESET: After finishing the meal, users press the "RESET" button to return the spoon to its initial position.
The user experience features three buttons labeled "RICE," "SOUP," and "OTHER DISH," allowing users to select their preferred dish easily By pressing the corresponding button, users can initiate the CareFeeder, which will rotate to present the chosen dish.
The "FEED" button allows users to easily scoop food from their chosen dish and deliver it to their mouth, enhancing the dining experience Once the meal is complete, users can simply press the "RESET" button to return the spoon to its original position This automated process ensures a convenient and enjoyable mealtime, enabling users to dine effortlessly and comfortably.
Experimental results
The pouring of food is significantly affected by the liquid content, as CareFeeder utilizes a specific vibration level along with the inertia of the food on the spoon For liquid dishes such as soup, minimal spillage occurs when CareFeeder lifts, while solid dishes like rice or minced meat also experience low spillage rates due to the optimal amount of food on the spoon Overall, food spillage remains under 8%, meeting the established standards for CareFeeder.
Limitations of CareFeeder
• Some limitations of CareFeeder include:
■ Some food items may be left in the bowl.
■ Limited functionality in the control application.
■ When the power supply is insufficient, the motors may experience slight oscillations.
CareFeeder marks a notable progress in meal assistance technology; however, it has some limitations in its design and functionality One issue is that food items may occasionally remain in the cup, which can impact the user experience This problem may arise from differences in food texture or the alignment of the feeding mechanism, highlighting the need for improvements to reduce such occurrences.
The CareFeeder control application may have limited features, potentially hindering user access to certain functionalities Therefore, ongoing updates and enhancements to the application are crucial for improving user accessibility and overall usability.
The CarcFccdcr's dependence on a power supply for its motorized components can lead to performance issues during power shortages, resulting in motor oscillations that compromise reliability To mitigate this challenge, exploring alternative power sources or backup systems is essential for maintaining uninterrupted operation, especially in critical situations.
CareFeeder provides valuable meal assistance for individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly, but it is crucial to acknowledge and address its limitations through continuous improvement and innovation By overcoming these challenges, CareFeeder can enhance its effectiveness and reliability, ultimately improving the quality of life for its users.
FEASIBILITY AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Feasibility
The CareFeeder is an innovative device designed to aid individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly during mealtime It utilizes user control signals to accurately identify the food and time for delivery to the mouth, ensuring that users receive the appropriate amount of nourishment.
The CareFeeder employs advanced technologies like IoT, automatic control systems, and internet connectivity to enhance its functionality These proven technologies facilitate seamless communication with devices such as smartphones and laptops, ensuring easy integration into existing networks The automatic control system allows for precise monitoring and adjustments of the feeding process based on user input, while internet connectivity enables remote management, allowing caregivers to track and modify feeding schedules as necessary Ultimately, the integration of these technologies guarantees the CareFeeder's effectiveness and reliability in assisting individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly in meeting their dietary needs.
Financial: Finance is an integral part of the development and production of CareFeeder.
A stable source of finance is crucial for the success of the CareFeeder project, as it ensures effective progress and production stability The reasonable costs of electronic components, sensors, and 3D-printed mechanisms alleviate financial pressures during production By utilizing smartphone control, CareFeeder not only enhances user convenience but also reduces production costs by negating the need for separate manual control tools Furthermore, the system simplifies meal preparation and cleaning, saving time and effort for both users and caregivers Ultimately, smart financial management supports CareFeeder's production stability while ensuring ease of use and maintenance in the future.
At CareFeeder, safety is our utmost priority, and we adhere to all safety and food handling regulations Our devices are meticulously designed and manufactured to meet strict safety standards, ensuring user well-being Every detail, from material selection to component design, is thoughtfully considered to reduce risks and hazards We incorporate essential safety features, such as automatic disconnect mechanisms, to prevent accidents and protect users Additionally, we conduct rigorous testing to confirm the safety and reliability of CareFeeder before it reaches the market To maintain continuous safety, we implement regular maintenance and inspection protocols throughout the device's lifespan.
Practical applications
CareFeeder is a versatile solution designed for households, nursing homes, healthcare facilities, and Parkinson's treatment centers, ensuring regular and precise food delivery while supporting individual nutrition management In homes, it offers convenience for families caring for those with mobility impairments or Parkinson's disease, promoting independence and alleviating caregiver burdens In nursing homes and healthcare settings, CareFeeder automates meal delivery for multiple residents, allowing staff to concentrate on other caregiving responsibilities Additionally, at Parkinson's treatment centers, it addresses patients' nutritional needs, which are crucial for symptom management and treatment optimization By providing customized nutrition and meal management, CareFeeder enhances the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's disease and mobility challenges, while also facilitating comprehensive care across various environments.
Figure 6.1: Testing and practical applications
CareFeeder has proven to be highly efficient in real-world applications, streamlining meal preparation and allowing caregivers to focus on other essential tasks Its seamless integration into daily routines enhances the quality of care by ensuring timely and accurate meal delivery, which promotes patient health and satisfaction The time-saving advantages of CareFeeder make it an invaluable tool in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and homes, where effective meal management is vital for maintaining high care standards By successfully implementing CareFeeder, caregivers can experience a transformation in meal delivery and management, ultimately improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
Conclusions
The development of CareFeeder represents a major breakthrough in healthcare technology, specifically targeting the dietary challenges of individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly This research focuses on understanding the unique needs of these demographics, aiming to enhance their quality of life while alleviating caregiver burdens By investigating feeding assistance robotics, the study examined various methods and devices that support meal routines for these populations A thorough review of existing literature and technological advancements revealed the potential applications of robotic feeding assistance, leading to the creation of CareFeeder.
CareFeeder's design was carefully tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by its users, focusing on user-friendliness and seamless operation Every element, from the food tray and feeding arm to the remote control interface, was thoughtfully designed Additionally, the software and control system prioritize user convenience, featuring an intuitive interface and advanced functionalities that empower users to effortlessly manage their mealtime routines.
CareFeeder has proven to be effective in aiding individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly through thorough testing and evaluation The experimental results emphasize its accuracy and efficiency in assisting with feeding tasks, showcasing its potential to greatly enhance the quality of life for its users.
CareFeeder is a groundbreaking solution for individuals with mobility challenges, providing an affordable and easy-to-use system that emphasizes their well-being and independence By incorporating advanced robotics and artificial intelligence, CareFeeder establishes a new benchmark in meal assistance technology, aiming to transform the mealtime experience for those with mobility impairments and significantly improve their quality of life.
Future Development
CareFeeder has undergone significant enhancements to improve its functionality and usability, notably through the integration of a camera system This upgrade enables CareFeeder to autonomously identify the patient's mouth position using advanced image recognition algorithms, allowing for precise calculation of the optimal scooping position As a result, the device dispenses the right amount of food with accuracy and efficiency, streamlining the feeding process and promoting user independence by minimizing reliance on external assistance.
CareFeeder's performance and reliability have been significantly enhanced with the introduction of upgraded motors, which improve its flexibility and maneuverability These new engines allow CareFeeder to effortlessly navigate obstacles and adapt to diverse environments.
CareFeeder's development team has introduced innovative solutions to tackle slight motor oscillations caused by insufficient power supply By implementing advanced control algorithms and optimizing the system, these enhancements minimize motor oscillations, ensuring smooth and stable operation in challenging conditions This improvement boosts CareFeeder's reliability and increases user confidence in its performance.
Significant enhancements have been implemented in the accompanying application, offering users improved functionality and convenience It now features meal data storage, insightful chart generation, and the ability to capture meal images for thorough tracking and analysis Additionally, the application can calculate meal calories, delivering essential nutritional information to aid users in achieving their dietary goals.
CareFeeder's ongoing development showcases a strong commitment to innovation and continuous improvement By leveraging advanced technologies and actively responding to user feedback, CareFeeder is evolving into a highly sophisticated and user-friendly meal assistance solution This empowers individuals with Parkinson's disease and the elderly to retain their independence.
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The ANYmal robot, developed by Hutter et al., is a highly mobile and dynamic quadrupedal robot designed for various applications This innovative technology was presented at the 2016 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) held in Daejeon, Korea, from October 9 to 14 The research highlights the robot's capabilities in navigating complex environments, showcasing advancements in robotic mobility and agility.