An overview of the BIOMED 2 RAIL ( Robotic Aid to Independent Living ) project

The objective of the RAIL (Robotic Aid to Independent Living) project is to develop a viable, low cost robotic aid, based upon the Handy 1 rehabilitation robot (fig. 1). The RAIL system will enable people with severe disabilities to gain independence in important daily living activities such as teeth cleaning, shaving and washing. Also attachments will be designed to allow the RAIL robot to fully utilise the Handy 1’s current eating and drinking functions. The RAIL project, which is being conducted over a two year period is funded by the European Commission, BIOMED 2 programme.