PLUTO: In a first, IIT-M, CMC Vellore develop portable robot for hand rehabilitation

Chennai: Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and Christian Medical College, Vellore (CMC Vellore) have developed an affordable and portable robot for hand rehabilitation.

Named PLUTO (Plug and Train Robot), the device has been commercialized by Thryv Rehab Solutions and aims to address the significant need for cost-effective rehabilitation tools in India.

Plug-and-Train Technology for Accessible Rehabilitation

PLUTO is the first indigenous robot designed for hand rehabilitation tested in Indian homes. It offers targeted therapy for wrist and hand movements, including wrist flexion/extension, forearm pronation/supination, and hand opening-closing. This modular design uses a single actuator and interchangeable mechanical handles.

Dr. Aravind Nehrujee, the inventor of PLUTO and a PhD scholar jointly affiliated with IIT Madras and CMC Vellore, explained:

“In the present era, conventional rehabilitation robots are either expensive, bulky, or lack adaptability. PLUTO’s modular and portable design addresses these limitations, making it suitable for bedside, wheelchair-based, and home-based use.”

The device bridges the gap in rehabilitation accessibility and affordability, making it ideal for use in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and even at home.

Successful Clinical and Home Use

PLUTO has already benefitted over 1,000 patients in the last four years and is in use across 11 clinics in India, including routine therapy at CMC Vellore.

Prof. Sivakumar Balasubramanian, Department of Bioengineering, CMC Vellore, highlighted:

“At least 15 patients per week use PLUTO for routine therapy at CMC Vellore. It's testing in Indian homes has proven it can deliver intense therapy and improve accessibility.”

The device supports conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and post-surgical hand recovery.

Affordability and Sustainability

The affordability of PLUTO is a key highlight, minimizing production costs while delivering advanced rehabilitation functionality. It reduces financial strain on healthcare providers and patients, ensuring wider adoption.

Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, Principal Investigator from IIT Madras, emphasized:

“PLUTO revolutionizes hand rehabilitation by providing an affordable and accessible solution for post-stroke patients. Its portability ensures timely and consistent therapy, improving recovery outcomes and reducing dependency on caregivers.”

The device also incorporates recyclable materials and energy-efficient processes, supporting sustainable healthcare innovation.

Collaboration for Future Innovations

The development and commercialization of PLUTO were facilitated by the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) – IPM Cell under IIT Madras’ Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research (ICSR).

Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean (ICSR), IIT Madras, noted:

“This collaboration between IIT Madras and CMC Vellore sets the stage for future innovations in assistive devices. We aim to focus on more such technology adaptations to benefit society.”

Key Features of PLUTO

• Compact and portable design for bedside and wheelchair-based therapy.

• Plug-and-train mechanism with tools for diverse hand functions.

• Gearless DC motor for seamless operation.

• High modularity for cost-effective and adaptable therapy.

• Scalable for mass production to meet broader needs.

• Designed for early rehabilitation, promoting faster recovery.