Smart and Adaptive Robotic Systems for Stroke Recovery: A Scalable Rehabilitation Framework for Resource-Constrained Environments

Successful applicants will join the project as Master’s Student / PhD Student at the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS), VinUniversity. 

Project Information 

Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term motor impairment, requiring rehabilitation processes that span multiple stages and rely heavily on trained therapists. However, in many resource-limited regions, access to continuous and effective rehabilitation remains challenging due to shortages in human resources, high costs, and limited infrastructure.

The project aims to develop scalable robotic solutions suitable for settings with limited manpower and infrastructure. The core focus is the development of an intelligent wearable robotic exoskeleton that can adapt across different rehabilitation stages, from full assistance in early recovery to active and resistance-based training in later stages.

By integrating robotics, artificial intelligence, and physical human–robot interaction, the project seeks to transform conventional rehabilitation models that are heavily therapist-dependent into robot-guided rehabilitation, ensuring safety, autonomy, and effectiveness for stroke survivors.

Project members: Asst. Prof. Nguyen Vu Linh (Principal Investigator) | Tran Trung Dung, Prof., MD, PhD | Asst. Prof. Do Tho Truong | Asst. Prof. Thai Mai Thanh

Research Objectives 

The project focuses on establishing an adaptive robotic rehabilitation framework, with the following main objectives:

(i) Design and develop an intelligent wearable robotic system capable of adjusting assistance levels throughout the stroke recovery process, from full assistance to active and resistance-based training.

(ii) Investigate and integrate robot control methods, artificial intelligence, and physical human–robot interaction to ensure safe, effective, and personalized rehabilitation.

(iii) Develop practical design and operational guidelines to support engineers and rehabilitation specialists in deploying robotic rehabilitation systems.

(iv) Propose rehabilitation solutions suitable for environments with limited human resources and infrastructure, aiming for scalability and sustainable deployment.

Impact 

The expected outcomes of the project offer practical contributions to stroke rehabilitation, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. The developed robotic system is expected to:

– Reduce long-term dependence on rehabilitation therapists.

– Improve access to structured and adaptive rehabilitation programs for stroke patients.

– Enhance safety and effectiveness in physical human–robot interaction during rehabilitation.

Beyond clinical relevance, the project also contributes to advances in robotics and mechatronic systems, providing a technological foundation for future healthcare-oriented robotic solutions.

Project Contact 

For details, please contact Dr. Nguyen Vu Linh via email [email protected]

Graduate Admissions Contact 

• VinUni Graduate Admissions
•  0978 549 846
• [email protected]

Learn more about Master’s, PhD programs, and scholarships at: VinUni Graduate Research Excellence Program