Showcase projects
Artificial Vestibular System
What is it?
The artificial vestibular system is a tool that helps maintain balance in people with limited equilibrioception.
What does it do?
The artificial vestibular system uses a sensor to register a person’s body position relative to gravity by determining the degree and direction of torso tilt. This information is then translated into vibrotactile feedback, similar to the vibrations on a mobile phone. To collect this data, the patient wears a belt that consists of 12 vibration components which vibrate depending on the degree of tilt.
Why is this useful?
In addition to our vestibular system, we also use other senses (sight, feeling in the soles of our feet, muscles, etc.) to keep our balance. The goal of this version of the device is not to take over vestibular function entirely, but to provide additional feedback to help people maintain their balance.
What are the benefits?
People with limited equilibrioception tend to feel unbalanced and unstable, which negatively impacts their daily functioning. This system can help people feel more secure in their daily activities. Mobility is enhanced and, as a result, people regain the courage to bike, drive or go on holiday again.
Additional details?
The system is currently suitable for use in both research laboratories and daily life, meaning the effects of the device can be researched in a natural environment. The system was designed to provide flexible feedback based on tangible research results. In the future, this product may become even more personalised and acquire self-learning capabilities. It was designed to be as minimally invasive as possible and accurately correspond to the senses. In order to do this, it must be integrated as best as possible within the wardrobe. The concept as a whole offers insights into other areas as well. It can provide additional feedback for the deaf and during rehabilitation exercises, games or dive trips.
What do we think?
"You can immediately see the effects of this personalised tool that we created, and that is extremely satisfying,” says project leader Jos Aarts.
Client:
Maastricht University Medical Centre plus, KNO
Commissioner:
Professor Herman Kingma, vestibuologist
