Ruihua Wei

Arizona State University, Tongji University

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Dr. Ruihua Wei is a leading figure in rehabilitation robotics, a field dedicated to transforming stroke rehabilitation through advanced technology. Her most impactful work centers on the RUPERT (Robotic Upper Extremity Repetitive Therapy) device, a wearable robotic exoskeleton powered by pneumatic muscle actuators. Dr. Wei’s major contributions lie in the design and closed-loop control of this system, which provides safe, compliant, and repetitive therapy to restore upper limb function. Her foundational 2008 paper on RUPERT closed-loop control has garnered 25 citations, while a subsequent 2010 study detailing the control architecture for its five degrees of freedom has received 14 citations. These works are pivotal in demonstrating how robotic assistance can enhance traditional physical therapy, offering precise, adaptive support to patients. Dr. Wei’s research addresses a critical need in stroke rehabilitation, where robotic devices hold significant potential to improve motor recovery and patient outcomes. Her achievements in developing and refining RUPERT’s control systems have established her as a key innovator, bridging engineering and clinical practice to create practical solutions for restoring movement and independence.