The ABLE KIDS project seeks to revolutionize pediatric rehabilitation by developing the first lightweight, quick-to-adjust, frameless and accessible robotic exoskeleton for pediatric neurorehabilitation. Through a co-creation and clinical validation approach, ABLE Human Motion begins to transform pediatric neurorehabilitation.
Importance of pediatric rehabilitation
The cognitive, physical, social and emotional development of children depends to a large extent on their mobility, autonomy and interaction with their environment from very early stages. Children with physical disabilities due to neurological disorders have difficulties to perform activities independently, affecting their normal development and quality of life. That is why rehabilitation in early stages is very important.
The current problem in pediatric rehabilitation
Robotic exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation has demonstrated significant benefits, such as increased bone mineral density, prevention of contractures and scoliosis, and improvements in respiratory and digestive function. However, most current robotic devices are designed for adults, with few options specifically for children. In Europe, only a single model of wearable exoskeleton (walking on the ground) is available for pediatric use, which has multiple limitations: suitable only for a very specific user profile, poor physiological movements, complex handling, and high weight and cost.
Objective of the ABLE KIDS project
ABLE Human Motion has initiated the ABLE KIDS R&D project with the objective of developing and validating the first pediatric exoskeleton that is:
- Lightweight and compact
- Quick to adjust
- Adaptable to different sizes and pathologies
- Accessible
This device will eliminate the need for an external safety frame or harness, allowing children to work on balance and bear the full load on their feet during gait. This will improve the clinical experience in rehabilitation and allow its use in home environments and outdoor spaces.
Specific objectives
The specific technical objectives of the ABLE KIDS project are:
- To implement a user-centered development methodology, involving physicians, physiotherapists, patients and relatives through a co-creation process.
- To generate new knowledge about the interaction between a robotic exoskeleton and a human (child).
- Design and develop the mechatronic parts of the first lightweight, quick to adjust, frameless and accessible robotic exoskeleton for pediatric neurorehabilitation.
- Develop accessories that adapt the device to the individual needs of each pediatric patient.
- Design, simulate and implement advanced control strategies that facilitate physiological walking.
- Develop algorithms that maximize the number of children with neurological or neuromuscular diseases that can benefit from the exoskeleton.
- Develop artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that facilitate a personalized rehabilitation program.
- Digitize the resulting pediatric exoskeleton through a mobile application.
- Prototype the pediatric exoskeleton iteratively and pilot test throughout the development stage.
- Generate new knowledge on the benefits of robotics for pediatric rehabilitation.
- Validate the safety and performance of the developed exoskeleton through a clinical trial with children with neurological or neuromuscular diseases.
A comprehensive and innovative approach
The ABLE KIDS project follows a methodology focused on co-creation, integrating engineers, clinicians and patients at all stages of development. Some of the main innovations include:
- Advanced hardware design:
- Electromechanical structure optimized for pediatric patients.
- Adaptable ergonomic systems to different clinical conditions.
- Intelligent software:
- Motion adaptive algorithms to deal with spasticity and joint limitations.
- Artificial intelligence integration to personalize therapies and digitize the device through a mobile application.
- Gamification and metrics:
- Development of motivational tools to encourage patient engagement during therapy.
Consortium
The project is done in collaboration with the partner TECH2PEOPLE GmbH, a clinic in Vienna (Austria) that is an expert in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological diseases based on new technologies and massive data analysis
TECH2PEOPLE will validate the developed exoskeleton prototype with 10 pediatric patients. During 12 therapy sessions, aspects such as device safety and clinical impact on gait and balance will be evaluated with standardized gait tests and disability scales. The data collected will serve as the basis for obtaining CE certification of the exoskeleton as a Class IIa medical device, to market it in the European Union in 2028.
Project Impact
ABLE KIDS will not only transform pediatric rehabilitation, but will also contribute to the economic and technological development of the region. By democratizing access to robotic technology for rehabilitation, this project reinforces Europe’s strategic autonomy in the healthcare sector and positions Spain at the forefront of advances in robotics and smart exoskeletons.
In line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the principles of environmental sustainability, ABLE KIDS represents a firm step towards a more inclusive future, where more children can benefit from highly effective and personalized rehabilitation treatments. This project is a sign of ABLE Human Motion’s commitment to innovation and improving the quality of life for millions of people worldwide.
Financiación
El proyecto “ABLE KIDS: el primer exoesqueleto robótico ligero, rápido de ajustar, sin marco y accesible para neurorrehabilitación pediátrica”, con número de expediente PAIS-20241103, ha sido beneficiario de las ayudas destinadas a Proyectos “Multi-país” vinculados al PERTE de Salud de Vanguardia en el marco del Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia. Proyecto financiado por el Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, por el Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación (CDTI), y por la Unión Europea – NextGenerationEU. Proyecto subvencionado por CDTI.
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