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About

Sergiu Hartopanu is a dedicated researcher in rehabilitation robotics, with a focused expertise in developing assistive technologies for stroke patients. His primary research areas encompass hybrid Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) and robotic exoskeletons, specifically designed for upper limb and hand rehabilitation following cerebrovascular accidents (CVA). Hartopanu’s major contributions include the design and development of the Intelligent Haptic Robotic Glove (IHRG), a pioneering exoskeleton that integrates mechanical support with FES to deliver intensive, repetitive therapy crucial for neural reorganization and motor recovery. His work is distinguished by the introduction of a balanced control system between FES and robotic actuation, a key innovation for restoring functional hand movements. With a cumulative citation count of 34 across his most-cited papers, Hartopanu’s research has laid critical groundwork for translating lab-based prototypes into clinical practice. Notably, his studies present preliminary clinical testing results, moving beyond theoretical design to demonstrate real-world feasibility. Hartopanu’s research is essential reading for those interested in the intersection of mechatronics, neurorehabilitation, and human-robot interaction, offering a clear pathway toward more effective, patient-centered recovery solutions.