Simulation versus Embodied Agents: Does either induce better human adherence to physical therapy exercise?

Abstract

This research investigates proper movement correlation as well as the overall perception of human subjects’ interaction with a simulated agent and an embodied agent in a physical therapeutic scenario. Using computer vision techniques coupled with the Microsoft Kinect to quantify reaching kinematics, correlation was assessed by aliging movements with a Vicon Motion Capture System as well as determining how well the specific exercises were mimicked. The results indicate that this approach is a viable alternative to Motion Capturing Systems for assessing certain movements during therapy. The results also indicate that there is some dependence on the use of an embodied agent as opposed to a simulated agent when assessing adherence.