Biomechanics Sensor Node for Virtual Reality: A Wearable Device Applied to Gait Recovery for Neurofunctional Rehabilitation

Author(s):Show less -

Brandao, Alexandre Fonseca ; Colombo Dias, Diego Roberto ; Machado Reis, Savyo Toledo ; Cabreira, Clovis Magri ; Moraes Frade, Maria Cecilia ; Beltrame, Thomas ; Guimaraes, Marcelo de Paiva ; Castellano, Gabriela ; Gervasi, O ; Murgante, B ; Misra, S ; Garau, C ; Blecic, I ; Taniar, D ; Apduhan, BO ; Rocha, AMAC ; Tarantino, E ; Torre, CM ; Karaca, Y

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: COMPUTATIONAL SCIENCE AND ITS APPLICATIONS - ICCSA 2020, PT VII; v. 12255, p. 14-pg., 2020-01-01.

Abstract

In several segments of the health areas, sensing has become a trend. Sensors allow data quantification for use in decision making or even to predict the clinical evolution of a given treatment, such as in rehabilitation therapies to restore patients' motor and cognitive functions. This paper presents the Biomechanics Sensor Node (BSN), composed of an inertial measurement unit (IMU), developed to infer input information and control virtual environments. We also present a software solution, which integrates the BSN data with Unity Editor, one of the most used game engine nowadays. This asset allows Unity-developed virtual reality applications to use BSN a secure interaction device. Thus, during rehabilitation sessions, the patient receives visual stimuli from the virtual environment, controlled by the BSN device, while the therapist has access to the information about the movements performed in the therapy. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/03695-5 - Application and development of virtual reality tools to complement conventional therapy of stroke patients and evaluation of recovery using brain connectivity through fMRI
• Grantee: Alexandre Fonseca Brandão
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral