Harmonic Bionics

Harmonic Bionics, Inc. operates as a commercial-stage robotics and digital health company, spun-off in 2016 from the ReNeu Robotics Lab at the University of Texas at Austin. The company was co-founded by Dr. Ashish Deshpande, who holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, and his former PhD student, Dr. Youngmok Yun. Dr. Deshpande’s interest in the field was sparked by his sister, a therapist specializing in post-stroke care, which led him to see the potential for technology to improve neurorehabilitation. The founding team was later joined in 2019 by CEO Christopher Prentice, a West Point graduate with over two decades of experience in the medical device industry, including leadership roles at Mazor Robotics.

The company's core focus is on augmenting human movement through intelligent robotic systems. Its flagship product, Harmony SHR®, is a bilateral upper-extremity exoskeleton designed for the rehabilitation of patients with neurological and musculoskeletal movement impairments. The system targets rehabilitation hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. Revenue is generated through the sale of these sophisticated robotic systems. A significant milestone was achieved in April 2023, when Harmonic Bionics registered Harmony SHR with the FDA as a Class II 510(k)-exempt medical device, enabling its commercial launch in the United States. In June 2025, Bioness Medical, a neuro-rehabilitation company, announced the acquisition of the assets and business of Harmonic Bionics, aiming to integrate Harmony SHR into its portfolio pending further regulatory clearances.

The Harmony SHR exoskeleton distinguishes itself by accommodating the natural, three-dimensional movement of the shoulder, including the scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR). This anatomical matching allows for a more comprehensive range of motion during therapy. The system is bilateral, capable of exercising both arms simultaneously. A key feature is its ability to deliver various therapy modes, including an 'intent-based' therapy where movements from a patient's healthy arm are mirrored to the affected arm, aiming to re-establish neural pathways. Beyond physical assistance, the device is a powerful data-gathering tool, providing objective measurements of joint angle and force generation. This data enables clinicians and researchers to precisely track patient progress, quantify movement quality, and tailor rehabilitation programs.

Keywords: Harmonic Bionics, Harmony SHR, upper extremity exoskeleton, neurorehabilitation, robotic rehabilitation, stroke recovery, physical therapy technology, movement science, scapulohumeral rhythm, medical robotics, assistive technology, digital health, occupational therapy, movement disorder assessment, bilateral therapy, motor impairment, rehabilitation equipment, Bioness Medical, Ashish Deshpande, Christopher Prentice