ReVitalize

What it does

ReVitalize is a comprehensive system that supports the rehabilitation process by correcting the patient's movement with voice messages or games using biofeedback, so we can shorten and make the recovery process more attractive.

Your inspiration

The inspiration for the system came from a conversation with a physical therapist who runs her practice. At that time, we learned about the daily difficulties of working with patients, such as monotony and a low-involvement rehabilitation process. We also realized that the biggest problem for people undergoing rehabilitation is maintaining correct posture. We decided to speed up this process by correcting the exercises performed by the rehabilitated person and making it more interesting with movement games using biofeedback. The monotony of the process also led us to consider a platform that would make the rehabilitators' work easier.

How it works

The sensors attached to the rehabilitated person collect information from the accelerometer and gyroscope and then transmit it wirelessly to the target device (phone, tablet, computer). There, the data is processed into the movement of an in-game character or a voice message, aimed at getting the patient to perform the movement correctly. Data from each session is sent to the patient's profile. The sensors are stored in a modular case (two per module), which can be given to the patient to practice at home with a voice assistant or put away on a docking station for recharging and servicing. The system is modular and scalable, enabling seamless remote work with patients and increasing their motivation to exercise correctly. Patient profile insights and sensor management can be accessed from the rehabilitator's platform, which provides a comprehensive set of tools for conducting a visit from start to finish.

Design process

After meeting with the physiotherapist, we held a project meeting, during which we drew up a mind map, writing out the problems and difficulties identified by the physiotherapist. We defined the target group, the goals and objectives of the project, and a preliminary outline of the solution. We then conducted a literature review and analysis of available solutions. We then confronted our mind map and preliminary concept with the information gathered, made corrections, and brainstormed to refine the project. We held such meetings several times in the following weeks. We then drew up an implementation plan, determining the elements to be completed during the academic year and plans for further development. The final, longest stage was the verification and testing of the prototype. As part of it: -We conducted a motion analysis of rehabilitation exercises using the Vicon system. -We developed a controller for the sensors to recognize movement and communicate with an interactive game called "Aquarium" to sustain the rehabilitated person's interest. -We developed six iterations of the sensor, reducing its size by about 70%. -We designed a modular sensor storage case and a modular charging station. A utility model has also been filed for the developed solution.

How it is different

At its core, the ReVitalize system enables patients to perform various rehabilitation exercises in the comfort of their homes, with regularity and accuracy comparable to exercises performed with a physical therapist. Our system is distinguished by its modular and scalable design, allowing the physiotherapist to seamlessly adapt it to his needs and the number of patients he receives. An additional advantage of modularity is that it significantly reduces the cost of use and allows further system expansion. One idea for further development that stands out to us is accessories for specific rehabilitation exercises, created using the FDM incremental manufacturing method, with the possibility of attaching a sensor responsible for their electronics.

Future plans

The next stages of the project include further development of the software, development of the case, docking station, accessories, app for the rehabilitator, miniaturization of the electronics, expansion of the game offering, and creation of an AI virtual assistant. In addition, we plan to submit our idea to an incubation program to verify the business potential and develop a market implementation strategy. After receiving support, we intend to implement the solution in pilot facilities. We are currently tracking programs aimed at students that can support the development of our project and enable its viable implementation.

Awards

Our project has been presented at numerous seminars, conferences, and competitions, winning: -Second place in the WAT Rector's Competition for the best student paper in 2023. -Honorable Mention at the 2nd National Scientific Conference "Students Cybernetics Symposium" organized by the WAT Cybernetics Department in May 2024.