Low-cost, at-home assessment system with Wii Remote based motion capture

Abstract

We present an at-home assessment system for upper extremity rehabilitation with simple motion capture that is functional and affordable. This system uses lighted targets to initiate a reach to grasp (or touch, if the patient is unable to grasp) to three touch- and force-sensitive cones. During the reach, end-point reach trajectory is captured using a low-cost, custom-built infrared motion capture system using two Wii Remotes. An embedded computer collects data for tracking patient’s progress over time. The system is a low cost way to track reaching trajectory, reaching time, reaction time and relative grasp forces. It requires minimal setup and instruction.