Physiological and Mobility Monitoring System for Patients with Lower Limb Amputation Based on a Serious Virtual Reality Game with an Instrumented Trike

This project developed a functional training system for patients with lower limb prostheses. The system uses a virtual reality serious game controlled by a self-instrumented recumbent trike, and a self-designed physiological monitoring module to monitor respiratory rate, heart rate, and pressure distribution. The data collected is stored in a database and processed by a central control system using a Raspberry-Pi, which allows parallel visualization in a web interface. The system was designed to be used as a diagnostic tool to generate useful data for future research and for the adaptation period of people with prostheses to complement rehabilitation. To test the system, a conceptual test was carried out with 12 volunteers, which involved adjusting the trike for users, collecting physiological and mechanical variables, collecting user data, playing the game in tutorial and competitive modes, and evaluating the usability and immersion of the system. The test revealed that the system has the characteristics of allowing an adequate and natural simulation of reality, which makes it easy to learn for different types of audiences. The system’s use of virtual reality and physiological monitoring allows amputee patients to engage in high-intensity physical activities and improve performance in daily life and work. This, in turn, increases adherence to the use of prostheses and helps reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Overall, the functional training system has the potential to be a valuable tool in rehabilitation and research for amputee patients.