This Hacked Kinect Sensor Helps Parkinson's Sufferers Walk
Rahul Kalvapalle — May 6, 2015 — Tech
References: brunel.ac.uk & gizmag
Researchers at Brunel University London have hacked a Microsoft Kinect sensor to help people with Parkinson's disease overcome Freezing of Gait -- a symptom that causes the patient's muscles to freeze mid-stride, making them feel like their feet are glued to the ground or causing them to fall over.
The sensor projects a dot of lines on the ground in front of the patient, a visual cue that has been proven by research to help 'unfreeze' the muscles. The hacked Kinect sensor works in conjunction with a ceiling-mounted laser that can easily be installed in patients' homes. When the system detects an instance of Freezing of Gait, the ceiling laser projects lines onto the floor to help counter the muscle freezing. The system can also automatically trigger a video call for help.
This system goes to show that modern sensor systems can be used for more than just gaming and entertainment, but can be creatively hacked to help relieve medical suffering.
The sensor projects a dot of lines on the ground in front of the patient, a visual cue that has been proven by research to help 'unfreeze' the muscles. The hacked Kinect sensor works in conjunction with a ceiling-mounted laser that can easily be installed in patients' homes. When the system detects an instance of Freezing of Gait, the ceiling laser projects lines onto the floor to help counter the muscle freezing. The system can also automatically trigger a video call for help.
This system goes to show that modern sensor systems can be used for more than just gaming and entertainment, but can be creatively hacked to help relieve medical suffering.
Trend Themes
1. Medical Sensor Hacks - The creative hacking of sensors originally developed for other purposes to help alleviate medical symptoms and conditions.
2. Visual Cues for Medical Treatment - The use of visual cues to help relieve debilitating symptoms and conditions, backed by research and implemented through modern technology.
3. Home-based Medical Treatment - Using technology to develop medical treatments at home, allowing patients to take charge of their own care and alleviate symptoms without constantly visiting a hospital or medical professional.
Industry Implications
1. Healthtech - Developing innovative technologies, like hacked sensors, to aid in the treatment of medical conditions without the constant need for in-person visits to a healthcare provider.
2. Motion Sensors - Implementing motion sensor technology in the medical field to help patients alleviate symptoms like Freezing of Gait and other mobility challenges.
3. Home Health Monitoring - Developing systems and technology that can be easily and affordably installed in patients' homes to help monitor and alleviate symptoms of chronic medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease.
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