Research Projects

List of active projects, and highlighted completed projects

Rehab-Immersive

Immersive Virtual Reality-based platform for rehabilitation of upper extremity

Funding Entity Funds Duration Partners Web
Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation
127.000 €
2022-2025
Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos de Toledo

Principal Investigators: Carlos González Morcillo and Javier A. Albusac Jiménez

Description

This project revolves around the creation and development of the “Rehab-Immersive” prototype, a novel approach for the rehabilitation of upper limbs in patients suffering from motor disorders due to spinal cord injuries, specifically tetraplegia. By leveraging advanced technologies like the Leap Motion controller and Virtual Reality glasses, the project aims to offer a more engaging and immersive rehabilitation experience. Unlike traditional methods that rely on repetitive functional movements, often leading to decreased patient motivation, this innovative approach involves the use of virtual reality to captivate patients’ interest and improve adherence to therapy. It prioritizes low-cost solutions by utilizing commercially available technology, allowing for broader accessibility compared to more expensive robotic devices.

Furthermore, the Rehab-Immersive prototype stands out by providing objective rehabilitation, offering data-driven insights into patient progress based on precise upper limb skill and ability metrics. It supports customization, giving patients the option to choose between desktop-based virtual therapy and a more immersive experience using Virtual Reality glasses. Additionally, the cloud-based infrastructure of the system promotes accessibility and facilitates integration with hospital’s Occupational Therapy Units and external rehabilitation centers, thereby fostering a more connected and efficient rehabilitation ecosystem. This project signifies a transformative step towards improving the outcomes and experiences of patients undergoing upper limb rehabilitation after neurological injuries.

VR-ZOCO

Design and development of a platform based on VR-Shopping and AI for the digitalization and strengthening of local businesses and economies.

Funding Entity Funds Duration Web
Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation & NextGenerationEU
175.000 €
2023-2024

Principal Investigators: Javier A. Albusac Jiménez and José Jesús Castro Sánchez

Description

The last decade has seen a remarkable transformation in e-commerce, driven predominantly by advancements in technology such as mobile phones and internet accessibility, and a society that’s becoming increasingly digitally literate. New technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are pioneering this shift, offering enhanced, personalized consumer experiences. These innovations, however, demand substantial investments in technology and expertise, posing a challenge for small businesses who find it difficult to keep up. This burgeoning technological gap threatens not only the survival of smaller enterprises but also risks cultural and economic losses in communities, as local businesses often embody and sustain cultural heritage and contribute to local economies.

To bridge this technological disparity, VR-ZOCO has been proposed as a solution – a VR and AI-based e-commerce platform designed to empower small businesses. It allows these businesses to showcase their products virtually, thus overcoming physical store limitations and adapting to technological advancements without necessitating substantial resources. VR-ZOCO aims to enhance the customer shopping experience by making it more engaging and personalized, and it also promotes local economies by encouraging in-store pickups and local exploration, thus fostering a symbiotic relationship between technological evolution and the sustenance of local communities and cultures.