Mike Barker
BSc (Hons) Computer Science - Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Application using the Novint Falcon - Mike Barker
The aim of the project was to develop a low cost, home-based and clinically accurate rehabilitation system that could provide the same benefits as the high-tech, expensive, existing systems. Mike Barker, BSc (Hons) Computer Science developed a cheap “data glove” device that could track the movement of four fingers. It was made from everyday store components and utilised the Nintendo Wii remote control. Using this technology in a different way, the range of motion captured gave the potential for very fine and accurate motion tracking.
Using two ‘Wiimotes’ in the system, the readings of the four infrared emitting diodes on the glove were processed and triangulated, giving the user a three-dimensional space to interact in. This was incorporated into a game scenario that recorded data for all interactions per session and could compare previous sessions to track progress over time.
The main benefits of the system include the ability for stroke patients to continue rehabilitation after discharge from hospital, without the need for return visits to use specialist equipment.
Using two ‘Wiimotes’ in the system, the readings of the four infrared emitting diodes on the glove were processed and triangulated, giving the user a three-dimensional space to interact in. This was incorporated into a game scenario that recorded data for all interactions per session and could compare previous sessions to track progress over time.
The main benefits of the system include the ability for stroke patients to continue rehabilitation after discharge from hospital, without the need for return visits to use specialist equipment.
