Abstract
Interactive robotic music therapy introduces an innovative opportunity, where human guided musical interaction with robotic systems can create adaptive and engaging therapeutic experiences. This survey explores the current state of research at the intersection of robotics, music, and rehabilitation, focusing on emerging technologies such as human robot interaction methods and system designs that help enable real time, interactive music therapy.
Potential patient groups include individuals undergoing motor or cognitive rehabilitation, such as those recovering from stroke, living with Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, or other motor impairments, as well as individuals with developmental disorders or limited mobility.
Traditional rehabilitation exercises may be monotonous, which can reduce patient motivation and adherence. By integrating robotics with music, patients can guide robotic instruments through gestures, biofeedback, or motion tracking, enabling interactive, personalized therapy and providing more accurate and comprehensive data on patient activity and progress.
This survey reviews existing robotic platforms, sensor and control mechanisms, and interfaces that allow patients to guide desired outputs, showing advances in interactivity, adaptability, and user engagement. These systems may facilitate greater patient involvement and positively influence rehabilitation outcomes.
Challenges such as usability, accessibility, and integration into existing therapeutic systems are discussed, along with opportunities for future research. This paper identifies gaps in the literature and outlines directions for advancing interactive robotic music therapy systems, providing a framework for researchers and developers interested in the design and application of music guided robotic interventions in rehabilitation contexts.
Keywords
Music Therapy, Robot Therapy, Interactive Therapy, Assistive Technologies, Biofeedback Systems
Date of this Version
12-8-2025
Recommended Citation
Salinas Gordillo, Hector A., "Exploring Interactive Robotic Music Therapy Systems for Rehabilitation: A Survey Paper" (2025). Discovery Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Research Internship. Paper 83.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/duri/83
References and Full Paper Link
Included in
Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering Commons, Music Therapy Commons, Rehabilitation and Therapy Commons, Robotics Commons, Systems and Communications Commons
Comments
Document attached includes papers reviewed plus other sources used for the poster/presentation. Survey Paper Link is included at the end of the document.