This extended reality (XR) system offers an innovative and interactive solution for lower limb rehabilitation, specifically designed to improve mobility in stroke patients through dynamic mixed reality exercises.
Background: Stroke survivors often face significant challenges in regaining lower limb mobility, requiring intensive rehabilitation to restore function. Traditional therapy methods can be repetitive, time-consuming, and demanding on therapists, which may affect patient motivation and slow recovery progress. To address these issues, researchers at SUNY Albany collaborated with Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital to develop an advanced system that enhances rehabilitation efficacy while reducing therapist workload.
Technology Overview: This extended reality system integrates the Bioness Vector Track system with cutting-edge virtual environments created using Unreal Engine 5.4, viewed through the Meta Quest 3 Head-Mounted Display. The technology delivers immersive rehabilitation tasks such as "Touch Wall," "Ball Launcher," "Obstacle Dodger," and "Stepping Stones," each targeting specific movement functions like stepping, balance, and coordination. The system actively tracks patient movements, including steps, crouches, squats, and bends, collecting detailed performance data. This data is processed into comprehensive reports to assist therapists in monitoring patient progress and tailoring therapy regimens. Utilizing about 95% newly developed software and supported by open-source tools like OpenXR and MetaXR, the system offers a highly adaptable platform. Beyond stroke rehabilitation, the solution shows potential adaptability for athletic training and general fitness markets. Its design facilitates use in specialized rehabilitation centers and supports the possibility of at-home recovery sessions, promoting consistent therapy outside clinical environments.
https://suny.technologypublisher.com/files/sites/adobestock_1099799806.jpeg Photo for reference only, not a depiction of the invention.
Advantages: • Enhanced patient motivation through engaging, interactive mixed reality exercises. • Precise movement tracking offering detailed feedback and progress monitoring for therapists. • Significant reduction in therapist workload by automating data collection and analysis. • High adaptability, allowing customization for different rehabilitation needs and fitness applications. • Integration of advanced technologies such as Unreal Engine 5.4 and Meta Quest 3 for realistic and immersive experiences. • Collaborative development ensuring clinical relevance and practical usability.
Applications: • Lower limb rehabilitation for stroke survivors in clinical and home environments. • Rehabilitation centers seeking innovative technologies to improve therapy outcomes. • Athletic training programs requiring precise movement analysis and motivational training tools. • General fitness markets looking for engaging, technology-driven exercise solutions. • Remote therapy and tele-rehabilitation services enabling patient support outside traditional clinics.
Intellectual Property Summary: Patent Pending
Stage of Development: TRL 3
Licensing Status: This technology is available for licensing.