Karthik creates innovative solutions for patients with complex mobility requirements

Karthik is a Rehabilitation Engineer working for the Heath Technology Management Unit of EMHS, who provides Assistive Technology solutions for patients with complex mobility and seating requirements.

One of his core duties involves setting up several input interfaces to control electric wheelchairs depending upon the patient’s ability. For example, a chin or a head control system that is used to control the wheelchair.

Karthik is also involved in the development of custom made devices and interfaces that are not commercially available, ranging from a customised 3D printed joystick knob to drive the wheelchair, to interfacing a robotic arm to the wheelchair. In addition, he also assists the clinicians with the design and manufacture of complex seating systems using computer aided design and manufacturing processes.

“My goal for the next few years would be to further improve my technical and management skills so that I can be an inspiring leader one day.”

Karthik has played an important role in the experience of many patients, but one of his most memorable moments at EMHS was designing a specialised interface for a patient with multiple sclerosis. This allowed her to control her wheelchair, iPhone, Apple TV, Fan and Foxtel devices using head switches and chin control which greatly increased her independence at home and in the community.

“In rehabilitation engineering, collaboration is vital, as assistive technology is a rapidly advancing area and I value expert advice from my colleagues at REC and HTMU.” He strongly believes in the value of kindness, and is motivated by his empathy towards patients.

Thank you Karthik.