The CAREN-Base system offers all functionalities of the CAREN system, minimizing the required space. Most of the current CAREN-users rely on the performance of the CAREN-Base system. Differences between these configurations however exist due to added optional hardware to fulfill specific applications.
KEY FEATURES
Key Features of the CAREN-Base system:
Standard moving platform with a payload of 750 Kg payload and a platform top with a diameter of 2 meters.
8 camera optical motion capture system.
Flat screen stereographic projection.
The heart of the system is formed by the patented CAREN software. The motion capture is being performed by an optical motion capture system configured with 8 high resolution infra-red cameras. Motion of the support surface the subject is standing on is being performed by a customized fast motion base. This motion base is equipped with a top of 2 meters in diameter. The projection of the virtual environment is carried out by a passive stereo front projection system. To increase the perceived immersion of the subject in the virtual world, an integrated surround sound system is present.
ARCHITECTURAL REQUIRMENTS (PDF)
AVAILABLE UPGRADES
Since several CAREN-Base systems are used for research, 1 or 2 force plates are often added to the platform top, allowing measuring ground reaction forces. Due to the combination of these force plates with the motion capture system, accurate inverse kinematics can be performed on the subject’s performance while standing on a moving support surface and immersed in a virtual environment. Being able to extend on current research programs with the CAREN system, integration of EMG is performed by most research facilities. Instead of integrating force plates in the platform top, an (instrumented) treadmill can be built in the platform top. Not only balance tasks but also gait can now be measured, analyzed and trained with the CAREN system. Measuring ground reaction forces whilst standing, walking and running in a virtual environment offers new possibilities for research and to improve rehabilitation of posture and gait.
OPTIONAL COMPONENTS.
In addition to the default CAREN configurations, Motek can provide additional options which will further enhance the use of the system. These additional components for instance consist of:
EMG
Including EMG (Electro-Myography) data via an analog integrator allows muscle activity to be incorporated into the feedback loop. Data can be acquired through the same interface as the force plates. Tethered or un-tethered systems are available on request.
Video Capture
The use of a video capture system provides a reference video feed to allow full replay of the trial or study. Systems from 2 to 6 cameras are available depending on requirement.
Special developed motion capture suits
Based on the experience Motek has in the entertainment and clinical experience from Sheba hospital, Motek developed special motion capture suits. Advantage of these suits is that they combine high quality motion capture data with high convenience for disabled subjects.
Data Gloves
The incorporation of data gloves into the system allows the integration of finger and hand movement into a study or program. Macro-movements of the hand are tracked by the optical system, so that the arc of movement of the arm as well as fingers can be used. Reaching, grasping and other upper limb studies can thus be instigated. With the possibility of collision detection, the patient can be given direct feedback regarding their relationship to an object.
On top of data gloves, haptic devices can be added, giving the subject force feedback regarding the actual resistance of the virtual object to each finger individually.
Energy Consumption System
Allow the measurement of gas exchange on a true breath by breath basis. This enables the exploration of physiological responses during trials. Physiological parameters like VO2, VCO2, Heart Rate and Ventilation can be measured.
Pressure Measurement System
In-Shoe measurement through the use of pressure pads can show centre of pressure as well as pressure distribution. In-shoe sensors allow the distribution to be seen through for instance a gait cycle and stepping.
HMD
Sometimes a more enclosed and intimate environment is required. Head mounted displays provide either stereoscopic images or a plain video display to the patient.