Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Ryan Breighner’s research bridges the gap between soft robotics and clinical rehabilitation, with a focus on advancing prosthetic hand technology and surgical precision. His most influential work centers on the development and evaluation of the SoftHand Pro (SHP), a novel prosthetic hand that synergistically combines soft robotics with hand postural synergies to improve functionality and user acceptance. In his 2016 paper, "The SoftHand Pro: Translation from Robotic Hand to Prosthetic Prototype," and the subsequent 2017 pilot study, Breighner demonstrated that the SHP could enhance grasp performance and versatility, addressing the high rejection rates of current prosthetic hands. These foundational studies have garnered over 24 citations, underscoring their impact on the field of assistive robotics. More recently, Breighner has expanded into surgical robotics, publishing a 2024 paper on fully automated determination of pedicle screw accuracy using computer vision algorithms. This work aims to reduce complications and revision costs in spinal surgery by replacing subjective CT-based assessments with objective, automated measurements. Breighner’s contributions exemplify a commitment to translating robotic innovations into tangible clinical solutions, making him a notable figure in both rehabilitation and surgical robotics.