Smart robots could one day reshape support for people with motor coordination conditions like dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder), thanks to a new research project by the University of Surrey. Engineers are developing mathematical models that help assistive robots detect and predict a person’s intent, effort and fatigue – allowing them to adapt in real time to offer more personalised, responsive assistance.
With funding from the UK Robotics and Autonomous Systems Network (UK-RAS), the study will focus on tracking how individuals perform simple movement tasks using a robotic wrist device called the HRX-1, while wearing sensors that monitor their brain and muscle activity. The data will be used to train systems that can recognise when someone is struggling – whether due to tiredness, reduced coordination, or mental fatigue.
Researchers will study both neurotypical individuals and people with dyspraxia, a neurodevelopmental condition impacting movement and affecting 5-6% of the UK population. The condition can make everyday activities, such as writing, driving, or maintaining balance, significantly more challenging. Despite its impact, it remains under-recognised in educational, professional and medical settings, and is still under-researched across many areas of science.
Dr Sajeeva Abeywardena, Lecturer in Robotics at the University of Surrey’s School of Engineering, and project lead, said:
“This project isn’t just about advancing robotics – it’s about better understanding human movement and response to mental and physical strain. Unlike many assistive technologies that focus on optimising robot function, our approach puts people first, aiming to build systems that adapt to individual needs and capabilities.
“By working with both neurotypical and dyspraxic participants, we hope to identify patterns that could lead to more effective tools for diagnosis, therapy, and everyday support. It’s an opportunity to bridge robotics and neuroscience in a way that delivers meaningful and lasting benefits.”
The team will apply advanced mathematical modelling techniques to analyse the data and develop intelligent systems capable of interpreting how a person’s brain and body respond to movement in environmental conditions which are constantly changing and hard to predict. These insights could form the foundation for adaptive, intent-aware robotics – from wearable devices to diagnostic tools.
Dr Marie Martel, Lecturer in Developmental Psychology at Surrey’s School of Psychology, and collaborator on the project, said:
“Dyspraxia is a lifelong condition that affects the daily life of millions of people in the UK, but we still don’t fully understand the underlying mechanisms behind it. Our hope is that the data we gather will lead to smarter, more inclusive future technologies that not only support individuals with dyspraxia but also help clinicians tailor interventions in ways that weren’t possible before.”
The research is a step toward future technologies that can better meet the growing demands of social care – helping ease pressure on healthcare systems by enabling greater independence.
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