The Symbitron+ Exoskeleton project at the University of Twente develops a wearable robotic exoskeleton to enhance functional walking ability for people with complete or incomplete spinal cord injuries. Originating from the EU Symbitron project, the team works on improving the symbiotic interaction between the wearer and the device by combining force‑controlled actuation at the hip, knee and ankle with active propulsion and balance control. Test pilots are trained in the Wearable Robotics Laboratory to use the exoskeleton in everyday tasks such as climbing stairs or sitting down, to support over‑ground mobility and tailored assistance for users with paralysis.
The Flexible Robotic Suit project at the University of Twente aims to go beyond traditional rigid exoskeletons by developing an autonomous, lightweight, unobtrusive and comfortable wearable robotic suit to help people with complete spinal cord injuries walk with minimal use of crutches. Current exoskeletons are often bulky, heavy and uncomfortable, limiting daily use. To improve comfort and natural movement, the research focuses on soft, flexible garments that generate necessary joint torques—such as inflatable composite fabrics embedded in pants—to support standing and walking. These soft technologies are expected to be crucial for future everyday wearable robotic suits that enhance independence and mobility for users.
Sunram 5 is an MRI‑safe robotic prototype developed by the University of Twente to support breast biopsies under MRI guidance. Entirely made of plastic and driven by pneumatic 3D‑printed actuators, it allows precise and flexible needle positioning in any orientation. The system incorporates safety mechanisms and fiducial markers for accurate navigation, ensuring both reliability and patient safety. As a proof-of-concept, Sunram 5 demonstrates the potential of MRI‑compatible robotics for minimally invasive, image-guided procedures and paves the way for future clinical applications.
The Needle Steering research at the University of Twente develops advanced, image‑guided methods to steer flexible needles during minimally invasive interventions. Rigid needles can deviate due to tissue deformation, reducing accuracy. The lab designs sensorised, steerable needles that navigate complex paths under ultrasound, MRI or CT guidance. These systems improve targeting in the brain, breast, lung, liver and other regions, offering precise, safe interventions with clinician‑in‑the‑loop or autonomous control.
UT’s first Medical Device Regulation (MDR) compliant open-source medical device (OSMD).The 3D foot plate assists in obtaining quantitative data of pathology in the hindfoot by allowing various positions of patients’ foot in within a CT-scanner. Due to its relevant application for a small patient population, no business case can be made. Therefore, this device will be offered as an OSMD via drawings, all necessary MDR documentation, and an IKEA-style manual with easy manufacturing using lasercutting, 3D printing, off-the-shelf components and basic hand tools for assembly.
Respiratory disorders such as asthma and dysfunctional breathing (DB) are common in childhood and for teens. Analysis of respiratory symptoms and assessment of efficacy of therapy in the home environment could provide a paediatrician and child an objective tool to acquire relevant data. In this project we study how a Wearable Breathing Trainer (BRISH) can signal respiratory parameters, detect and analyze respiratory disorders and provide real-time feedback to the child.
