Masters Thesis Defense “Portable Motion Lab for Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Processes” By Yogesh Chavan

Committee:  Drs. Yong Pei, Advisor, Andrew Froehle, Co-Advisor (Department of Kinesiology & Health), and Mateen Rizki

ABSTRACT:

In this thesis research, we have explored the capabilities of a household body-tracking device - Microsoft Xbox Kinect for motion analysis and assessment to assist patient’s rehabilitation after joint replacement and repair surgeries.  In particular, we have combined the motion tracking capabilities of Kinect with the 3D modelling of human body for accurate and intuitive movement assessment and feedback.  Our prototype system demonstrates the effective and efficient workflow of motion capturing, data processing and analyzing and augmented reality based presentation, resulting in a design which is not only accurate, reliable and robust, but also extremely cost- and space-efficient.
Furthermore, we have successfully developed a minimum viable commercial software assembling a portable motion lab that can be deployed conveniently at home, clinic office, physical therapy facilities, athlete training centers, or research institutes.  We believe our system creates significant economical value for these potential customers by reducing the health care related cost, improving the rehabilitation outcome, and also having the potential to prevent the excessive use of additive painkillers.