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'PLUTO' (Plug-and-Train Robot), an innovative, cost-effective and portable robot for hand rehabilitation has been developed by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, marking a significant milestone in healthcare technology.
PLUTO offers an affordable solution for clinical and home-based therapy, addressing a crucial gap in rehabilitation technologies. As India’s first indigenous robot tested in home settings, it has benefitted over 1,000 patients in the last four years.
Designed by Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan (IIT Madras), Dr. Aravind Nehrujee (IIT Madras and CMC Vellore), and Prof. Sivakumar Balasubramanian (CMC Vellore), PLUTO ensures accessibility and advanced therapeutic options for conditions like stroke, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and hand paralysis.
The robot features a modular design with interchangeable mechanical handles, enabling targeted wrist and hand therapy, such as flexion, extension, and pronation/supination. Its compact, gearless DC motor design supports portability and bedside use, addressing challenges faced by bulky conventional systems.
PLUTO’s affordability and energy-efficient manufacturing make it a sustainable healthcare innovation. It minimizes financial burdens for patients while reducing waste and environmental impact. Already integrated into 11 clinics across India, the device supports up to 15 patients weekly at CMC Vellore.
Highlighting the collaboration, IIT Madras Dean Prof. Manu Santhanam emphasized the institute’s commitment to fostering innovations in assistive devices. Recognized as a top-ranked institution in engineering and overall categories, IIT Madras continues to spearhead impactful research and industry collaboration.
