EPFL develops real-time motor control

Researchers at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, led by Pierre Vassiliadis and Friedhelm Hummel, have developed a novel and simple method to improve motor control for users of robotic arms, prosthetic hands, and rehabilitation devices. The technique involves providing real-time visual feedback, where a target's color changes (green for success, red for failure) during movement. This approach, tested in five studies with 106 participants including stroke patients, showed immediate and persistent improvements in motor control with fewer than 20 practice trials. The method is particularly effective when other sensory feedback is limited and could be easily integrated into existing systems at minimal additional cost. Other contributing institutions include Sant Anna School of Advanced Studies, CNRS Bordeaux, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Lausanne University Hospital, and University of Geneva.