In this blog post, I want to showcase and discuss my finished prototype. Additionally, I’ll theorize about the future outlook and potential advancements in this area.
So first of, the showcase video:
For this prototype, I used the sensors embedded in my smartphone, which I found to be a valid approach. However, for future prototypes, using a smartwatch or another tracking device may prove to be more useful. There is also the potential for creating specific health devices, such as a resistance band with sensors to detect how strongly the band is being stretched or pulled.
- Device Selection: The weight of the phone was noticeable during use. For a more refined prototype, a lighter device would be preferable. For reference, the phone I used, a Motorola Edge 30, weighs 155 g.
- Sensor Integration: Utilizing wearables like smartwatches can provide more accurate and convenient tracking. Alternatively, integrating sensors directly into exercise equipment (e.g., resistance bands) could enhance the user experience and data accuracy.
The research I did and the buidling of the prototype taught me a lot about gamification and therapy methods. It was the first time where I really took a look at how therapy exercises look like and how they should be performed. Also from the technical side I gained many valuable insights. Right now the prototype gives immediate feedback. However, in the future it could be enhanced by creating really gamifying it. This could happen in the form of characters, stories that are being told, audio feedback, rewards, etc. This is definitely something I want to explore more of in the future.
One of the proplems I personally have with most of the gamified approaches to therapy which I have seen during my research phase is that so many of them seem either too silly for my personal taste and that they are old and not up-to-date. Finding something new and novel that is both fun, engaging and yet still serious enough that people will see it as a legitimate form of therapy will be one of the challenges which need to be overcome.
Conclusion
The process of researching and creating the prototype has provided me with valuable insights into the potential of gamified physical therapy. Moving forward, I plan to refine the technology and explore new avenues for enhancing the user experience and effectiveness of these solutions. I am currently in contact with some experts in the field so hopefully there will also be the possbility of cooperation in the future.
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