Desenvolvimento de uma junta articulada em um robô assistivo para aprimorar o desenvolvimento psicomotor de crianças com autismo

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that profoundly affects the development of motor, cognitive, and social skills in children. The global increase in ASD diagnoses has highlighted the need for interventions that improve the quality of life for these children. Among the essential aspects of treatment is the development of motor skills, which is fundamental for achieving positive and effective outcomes. In this context, Socially Assistive Robots (SARs) stand out as an innovative solution, helping to overcome the challenges associated with ASD through engaging and playful interactions. These robots, designed to socially interact with children, effectively promote psychomotor development. Within this framework, this study, conducted as part of the “FATA - High-Tech Assistive Factory” project, proposes the creation of a joint with two degrees of freedom (2 DOFs) for the therapeutic robot BITI, aimed at the motor development of children with ASD.The objective is to provide an efficient, low-cost solution tailored to the specific needs of these children. The methodology involved an exploratory approach to understand the psychomotor challenges associated with ASD and identify the specifications necessary for manufacturing an efficient rotary joint, accompanied by a literature review to investigate how robotic movements contribute to motor therapies for children with ASD. Subsequently, the developed rotary joint was modeled, 3D printed, and subjected to physical tests to validate its functionality and evaluate the efficiency of the movement in the robotic arm. At the end of the study, a detailed analysis was conducted on the joint’s integration with the BITI robot structure to verify its suitability for the flexibility requirements of the project. The results confirm the potential of this component to meet therapeutic requirements, offering new perspectives for future improvements and practical applications in the development of assistive robots.