Bravo Twist: An assistive eating device that automatically compensates for tremor

Eating is more than just nourishment – it means enjoyment, independence and social participation. But neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or the aftermath of a stroke can severely disrupt this part of everyday life. This is exactly where the Bravo Twist by ProWalk comes in: an electric assistive eating device that automatically compensates for hand tremors. In this interview, ProWalk CEO Benedikt Preisler explains how it works, who can benefit from it, and why modern orthopedic technology is more advanced than ever.

In brief: What you’ll learn in this interview about Bravo Twist

How the Bravo Twist eating aid compensates for hand tremors
Who can benefit from it in everyday life
How technology supports greater independence

How the Bravo Twist eating aid works

Benedikt Preisler smiles into the camera; Copyright: ProWalk GmbH

Founder and CEO of ProWalk GmbH: Benedikt Preisler

The Bravo Twist tool counteracts tremors and shaky hands. Mr. Preisler, how does the device work?

Benedikt Preisler: The Bravo Twist consists of two units: the handle and the spoon or fork replaceable attachment. The electronic system and battery are embedded in the handle. A variety of motion sensors continuously detect the spoon’s position, which repeatedly changes during the tremor. The obtained data allows the electronic system to use mini electric motors to quickly control the mechanism of the attachment. This cancels out the shaky hand movement, stabilizing the spoon or fork.

Real-time stabilization – no waiting required

The spoon’s motion sensors capture data and use it to counteract shaky hands. Can users take the spoon and eat right away, or do they have to wait a few minutes to first allow the spoon to "collect data"?

Preisler: The data is collected in a split second and used instantly to stabilize the spoon. This means that users can eat right away with no delay. What’s more, when users pick up the spoon, it automatically detects whether they use the left or right hand.

Translated transcript of the spoken text in the video:

Bravo Twist – a special spoon for people with a so-called hand tremor. The spoon is able to stabilize itself and compensate for the tremor of the hand.

Assistive devices for tremor and a better quality of life

What role does modern orthopedic technology play in terms of rehabilitation and improvement of quality of life after a stroke or Parkinson's diagnosis?

Preisler: Modern orthopedic technology is able to significantly improve the quality of life of people after a stroke or Parkinson's diagnosis. When it comes to stroke rehabilitation, high-tech devices like the "WalkAide" system fight the effects of foot drop for example. If hand function such as gripping and releasing of objects is difficult, movements can be improved by using the "ReGrasp" tool - a computer-assisted hand stimulator system – under certain medical circumstances. These types of technical devices can significantly counterbalance the effects of a person’s disability. Both essential tremor and Parkinson's disease also drastically restrict the quality of life. People affected by these disorders are unable to eat with normal utensils without dropping food. Thanks to assistive devices like the "Bravo Twist", people regain the confidence to eat in an extended social environment or go out to eat at a restaurant and once again participate in social life.

More about ProWalk at: www.prowalk.de

Originally published by Anne Hofmann | REHACARE.com

Nadine Lormis smiles in to the camera; Copyright: Victoria Emanuel

Editor: Nadine Lormis | REHACARE eMag

Nadine Lormis has been writing about (digital) developments in the assistive technology sector, self-determined living and inclusion for over 15 years. As editorial director of the REHACARE eMag, she is closely networked with the community of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses – both professionally and personally.

Originally published on: October 17, 2019
Last updated on: August 08, 2025