Overview

This project focused on gamifying grip strength exercises to encourage consistent practice, aiming to alleviate the effects of aging and illnesses on grip strength. By transforming the user's gripping motion into digital signals to control a game, we provided an engaging solution to a typically boring and repetitive task.

My role

• Head Electronic Engineer: Led the development of the wireless game controller.

• Ensured seamless integration of EMG electrodes with the game interface.

• Collaborated with team members to leverage their expertise and foster a strong collaborative spirit.

Problem

Aging and illnesses can cause a decline in grip strength, impacting quality of life and leading to potential health problems. Traditional grip strength exercises are often boring and repetitive, reducing adherence.

Solution

Our solution involved gamifying grip strength exercises. The user’s gripping motion was transformed into digital signals to control a hot-air balloon in a game, encouraging repeated use through engaging gameplay and a high score system.

Process

1. Concept Development

• Idea Formation: Identified the problem of declining grip strength and the need for an engaging exercise method.

• Solution Design: Conceptualized a game that transforms gripping motion into game controls, encouraging consistent exercise.

2. Technology Selection

• EMG Electrodes: Chosen for measuring electrophysiological signals of muscle contraction on the user’s forearm.

• Microcontroller Integration: Developed a system to send the EMG signal to a microcontroller, transforming it into a usable game control signal.

3. Prototyping and Development

• Hardware Development: Designed and built the wireless game controller integrating EMG electrodes.

• Software Development: Developed the game interface where a hot-air balloon ascends based on the user’s grip strength.

• Signal Processing: Ensured accurate transformation of muscle contraction signals into game controls.

Tools used

• EMG electrodes: For measuring muscle contraction signals

• ESP32: For processing and transforming signal

• Figma: Game visuals

• Unity: Game development

Outcome

The project successfully demonstrated the potential of using EMG electrodes for gamifying grip strength exercises. By integrating novel neural interfaces with engaging game mechanics, we created a solution that not only encourages regular exercise but also provides an enjoyable user experience. The feedback from users was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting both the effectiveness and the fun aspect of the game.

Key Results

• Innovative User Input Method: Successfully implemented EMG electrodes to measure grip strength and control the game, showcasing a novel approach to user interaction.

• Functional Prototype: Developed a fully functional prototype that can be further refined and potentially commercialized.

• Research Insights: Provided valuable insights into the use of EMG electrodes in user interfaces, contributing to future research and development in this area.

Visuals

Reflection

This project underscored the potential of integrating novel neural interfaces with user-centric designs to create engaging and effective solutions. Leading the development of the wireless game controller enhanced my skills in hardware and software integration, user interface development, and collaborative teamwork.