Stijn Verwulgen professor

Research Stijn Verwulgen

Research team

Expertise

Medical device development Ergonomics Physiology Anthropometrics Biomechanics Optimization of human-product systems

benefits on bikes 01/11/2023 - 31/10/2025

Abstract

The Province of Antwerp promotes cycling by expanding cycle routes and infrastructure, with a focus on cycle highways and nodes connecting cycle routes. This project aims to support this promotion by improving user satisfaction through expertise in Product Development and Urban Planning.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Femtosecond pulsed laser micromachining for engineering, materials, and catalysis research. 01/05/2022 - 30/04/2026

Abstract

Through femtosecond pulsed laser micromachining a wide variety of materials such as ceramics (e.g. glass), hard metals (e.g. Hastelloy), and polymers can be processed with microscale resolution, offering innovation and beyond state-of-the-art research opportunities. To name a few, the planned research infrastructure would allow to tune the catalytic properties of surfaces, to enhance flow distribution, heat transfer and mass transfer in chemical reactors, to increase detection limit of photoelectrochemical sensors, to facilitate flow chemistry, to tailor-make EPR and TEM measurement cells, and to allow machine learning for hybrid additive manufacturing. Currently, the University of Antwerp lacks the necessary research infrastructure capable of processing such materials and surfaces with microscale precision. Access to femtosecond pulsed laser micromachining would yield enormous impact on ongoing and planned research both for the thirteen involved professors and ten research groups as for industry, essential to conduct research at the highest international level.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

VAXINFECTIO-PD _ VAXINFECTIO: Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute _ PD: Product Development. 01/01/2021 - 31/12/2026

Abstract

VAXINFECTIO-PD is an established Industrial Research Fund (IOF) consortium, well equipped to build an ecosystem offering research, valorisation, innovation and development to answer existing and new challenges in the field of infectious diseases and vaccinology. These domains fall within one of the valorisation domains of the Antwerp University, and the newly established business unit Antwerp Valorisation & Development (AVD) of the UAntwerp. The VAXINFECTIO-PD consortium built up a unique and extensive track record through research, services, spin-off creation and innovative pathways, in generating product concepts/prototypes and research platforms that form the basis of medical innovation. The various core research units have had an important international image in the recent years with publications in leading journals, coordination of several European projects, as well as active presence and involvement in international scientific and policy forums. For the 6-year period the IOF-consortium will further focus on 5 interlinked valorisation avenues, all creating or guaranteeing growth on the parameters P3, P4, P5 and P6: translational vaccination platform for improved and new preventive and therapeutic vaccines, prognostic and diagnostic platforms, core facilities (for cellular vaccines, human challenge studies and biobanks), infectious disease and immune modelling and prediction, and improved vaccine delivery and medical devices through product development.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

BOF Sabbatical 2021-2022 - Stijn Verwulgen. 01/10/2021 - 30/09/2022

Abstract

Thanks to this project, a small grant from BOF is used to attract external lectures such that the grant owner can be partially dismissed from educational, in order to extend current research and positioning future research in industrial design.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Full mission simulation to investigate effects of autonomous shipping on the future role of the Licensed Deck Officer regarding unmanned/manned vessel interaction in open and restricted waters. 01/01/2021 - 31/12/2022

Abstract

This research is relevant and timely as it will provide valuable insight of the impact that autonomous shipping will have on the mariner of the future. Drawing on our experiences as sailing Licensed Deck Officers, we desire to ensure that the human element of a ship's operator is embodied in the evolution of the autonomous shipping industry. Insights generated from this research will benefit involved stakeholders to better understand and prepare for changes in the maritime industry, including how this will affect human-machine interaction, their responsibilities, and the future of their training. Furthermore, we will gain insight in the effect of restricted waters and use of autopilot. The following qualitative methods will be used for this research: an in-depth literature review; and interviews of maritime experts, training facility instructors, and IMO employees currently tasked with STCW/COLREGs recommendations regarding autonomous shipping. An FMS simulation will also be conducted, where participants will be monitored and recorded live, controlling an 'own ship' approaching the port of Antwerp. FMS participants will be interviewed and will answer questionnaires. After developing a measurement strategy and data management plan, data such as vessel CPA/TCPA, course/speed changes, and participant reaction time and use of controls will be recorded, integrated, and processed to identify participants' thought process. New risks arising from interaction between manned/unmanned vessels within open and restricted waters will be identified, and strong recommendations to STCW training will be concluded. Results of this project will outline new tasks and responsibilities for shipboard and shoreside vessel crews of the future, and will provide insight and potential new risks regarding manned/unmanned vessel interaction. Furthermore, this research project completes one PhD and significantly contributes to a second PhD at the University of Antwerp and Antwerp Maritime Academy. A unique training course addressing the Licensed Deck Officer and autonomous shipping will be developed as one of the main deliverables, as well as the publication of three A1 publications. This research project will have significant contributions to maritime training facilities, to the development of the future OOW within the shipping industry, and to port authorities as our findings can impact the direct operation and training of operators of autonomous ships in the future.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

AI-Driven VR training in an adaptive user context 01/01/2021 - 31/12/2022

Abstract

The project will explore AI and 3D scanning techniques in the development of VR training courses. Proofs of concept (POCs) and user cases on how VR training courses can optimise motivation and knowledge transfer among employees. This project is initially aimed at 50 SMEs that develop VR training simulations. In addition, 129 training and education centers that offer training courses and issue certificates belong to the target group.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Sizing system for respirator masks. 01/01/2021 - 31/05/2022

Abstract

This project seeks to develop a novel sizing system specifically for filtering facepiece respirator masks. We will work from anthropometric databases and 3D scanning of face and head shapes of participants to build up the sizing system for adults and adolescents. The masks will be designed, fabricated and tested at the Antwerp Design Factory, and qualitative and quantitative studies of the masks to be performed with users to establish important factors like model comfort and performance.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

D Thermal imaging of people using statistical shape models. 01/10/2020 - 30/09/2022

Abstract

In this project, we will develop an easy to use method to monitor the thermal condition of a person as a function of time, with potential applications entailed in physical treatment or a sports activity. The method employs amongst others thermal imaging. To that end, we create a virtual 3D model of the person of interest. The proposed technique will enable the development of a flexible and mobile measurement system, which can be used in labs, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports training facilities, etc.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

4D scanner for Accelerating Advanced motion Analysis and Application 01/05/2020 - 30/04/2024

Abstract

The human body is a complex bio-mechanical system that exhibits many variations in geometry and movements. Advancements in 3D scanning and 3D modeling allow to construct precise and high-resolution models of the human body. Such a 3D model often contains more than 2GB of information such that recording, processing, transmission and data storage is labor and time intensive. In this project we acquire a 3D body scanner that captures the human body shape in high precision and with virtually no effort. The equipment will allow to register the human body with an accuracy of 1mm and up, at a frame rate of 10 3D scans per second. This so called 4D scanner (3D + time) constitutes the core of our 4D center of expertise, in which the research groups Product Development, MOVANT, Vision Lab, EVECO and Op3Mech together with Center for Health and Technology (CHaT) have joined forces in a complementary collaboration with the aim to use dynamical models of the human body for the development of new products with improved comfort and functionality, to design fundamentally new products with important applications in health care, and to improve our understanding of the evolutionary history of the human body. The combination of academic and industrial expertise of Kinesiology with Product Development and virtual modeling and simulations makes the center unique in the world. The consortium will tackle open design problems with applications for mass customization (3D printing) and wearables.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Technical and electronical solutions to mitigate risks for covid-19 infections 09/04/2020 - 12/05/2020

Abstract

During the covid-19 outbreak, intense caregiving was required in treating too many infected patients, compared to the capacity of personel and equipment. In particular, this pressure resulted in inter alia bottlenecks in power supply of active respiratory protectors as used in the intensive care unit of UZA. By using CAD, 3D printing and electronic components, our collaborators Sam Smedts and Jochen Vleugels resolved these bottlenecks. Their solution has significantly contributed to the fact that "not a single caregiver of the ICU was infected with covid", according to UZA, our client in this small but high impact fee-for-service project. In this project we delivered solutions that protect ehalth care providers at University hospitals

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Answer to the Covid emergency, creating a production line of protections for medical staff. 08/04/2020 - 31/12/2020

Abstract

In this project we developed solutions to shortage of respiratory protection devices during Covid 19 outbreak. A dedicated team of researchers at the research group product development worked closely with local and national gouvernement and medical stakeholders to pinpoint user requirements, regulatory requirements and with industry to provide adequate solutions.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Fast track development FFP2-FFP3 face masks. 16/03/2020 - 15/03/2021

Abstract

This project started with anticipated shortages in respiratory protective equipment (RPE) at the beginning of the COVID crisis, March 2020, with the challenge to develop an emergency production line of FFP2 and FFP3. The aim was set to achieve local production, with documented and ensured quality. A design brief was drawn from existing respiratory equipment available at UZA and a protocol for emergency validation and quality control was derived from RPE regulations (EN149). Validation methods were constructed in consult with FAGG and FOD-economie. Our team at Antwerp Design Factory immediately started concurrent engineering both modeling, tooling, sourcing and validation. Results comprised validated models for industrial production (curved patterns), fully customizable production line with linear patterns including emergency quality control, with external validation by IFA and Mensura. The customizable line is extremely compact and produces 5000 FFP2 masks in one 38hour shift with 8 operators. Tooling can be realized by 3D prints and laser cutters. Our developments were supported by a scientific advisory board from policy makers, academic and industrial stakeholders. Masks were provided to UZA, ZNA to protect caregivers at COVID units and to the province of Antwerp, to initiated contact tracing.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Corona mouth masks. 01/01/2020 - 31/12/2021

Abstract

This gift is used in the context of an extraordinary project at the begin of the covid-19 outbreak that not affected the whole world. The gift was intended to mitigate the consequences of the covid_19 outbreak. We developed a mobile production line for respiratory protective masks type FFP2 and FFP3. The line can be scaled up easily, with production toolings implemented by flexible manufacturing techniques such as 3D printers, laser cutters and mechanical actuators steered by programmable micro-controllers. The masks were provided to local hospitals to enhance safety and well-being fo health care professionals, who were under tremendous pressure Q2-Q3 2020

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

3DScan^3. 01/01/2020 - 31/12/2021

Abstract

This is a joint application of research groups at the faculty of Design Sciences. At this faculty, the research focus on the human being in relation to artefacts comprising products and services, design heritage, and buildings. The factor that connects this myriad of research activities is scale – the human experiential scale of the tangible and visual artefacts, that can be perceived directly with the sensory system, without additional instrumentation (e.g., magnifying glasses or telescope). We aim to consider, understand, and reflect on artefacts that are the result of a design process, situated on a scale from millimetres to kilometres. For all research groups, enhanced digitalisation systems are required to keep up with the pace of competing institutions, or in some aspects the new infrastructure will allow us to go beyond the state of current art in design science (esp. digital heritage/time machine and digital human body modelling).

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Development and validation of a user-friendly method to deploy immersive technologies in the process of product development. 01/11/2019 - 31/10/2023

Abstract

The goal of this research is to provide a user-friendly method for product developers to interact with Virtual, Augmented Reality and/or Mixed reality (MR, merging the real and the virtual world). We will define and validate a method to deploy MR in the process of product development. The project was defined by the observation that the product development process can be improved by revisiting interaction in mixed MR with design objects. For example, organic shapes (e.g. geometrical surfaces with non-trivial curvatures) can be directly handled in MR and then tuned to flexible manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing, bypassing the need for complex and cumbersome on-screen manipulations in digital drawing. The goal of this research is achieved by the development, implementation, testing and validation of a toolkit that incorporates latest advancements in MR in different stages of the design process: ideation, system design, concept design and prototyping/manufacturing. Envisioned improvements are: increased efficiency, more accurate communication, enhanced perception, faster verification, less iterations and faster decision making. Consequently, the toolkit will improve the outcome of the product development process and/or reduce efforts to achieve a non-inferior product. The toolkit focuses on products that directly interact with the human body.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Preventive measures for high physical strain workers 01/10/2019 - 31/12/2023

Abstract

In this project we focus on preventive measures for dockers under physical load. We aim to achieve maximal support through recommendations for new products and training, in collaboration with physiotherapy.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Optimization of functions in human-product systems. 01/04/2019 - 30/03/2020

Abstract

Design of products that closely interact with the human body require extensive integration of geometrical and/or physiological knowledge. In that design process it is common to design and validate firstly a human-product system that fulfills a set of specifications, given in advance. The system to be designed often contains some unknown functions that have to be provided by the designer for optimal performance, comfort and safety of the end product. These unknown functions are regularly pinpointed by the designer based on experience, user insights and testing. The past decades, structural optimization techniques such as topological optimization have found their way to standard CAD applications. A commonly known example is found in structural CAD/CAM, e.g. car design, such as a chassis that can be design for 3D printing by only specifying forces (statics & dynamics), optimized for weight, strength, dynamic load and vibrations. A promising application domain is 3D prints of ortheses or prosthetic connections, where statics are optimized towards geometry of the body; to be extended through current research with soft tissue and dynamics. The specific aim of this application is to initiate a design method to deploy state-of-the-art mathematical optimization algorithms and computational methods in the design of flow systems for medical substances, with the aim to optimize therapeutic, diagnostic and/or user related effectiveness of the envisioned end product, at the level of system design (human-product system). The specific exercise that is conducted for this aim, within the realm of this small project, is determining the rheology of medical substances (fluids) from experiments that can be easily conducted in vitro. Rheology determines flow behavior which is, in turn, crucial for proper functioning at the level of diagnostics, therapeutics and/or usability. For example, shear stresses in cell therapeutics during injection play a crucial role for effectiveness and viability of injected cells at place were they should be active or activated (e.g. under the skin). Shear stresses are also directly related to ease of use for injection, pain and/or discomfort for the subject. Summarizing, shear stress in function of shear rate is the overall determinant for the flow behavior of the substance and in extension the properties of an envisioned applicator. This unknown function (rheology-in Newtonian fluids equivalent with viscosity) will be determined by functional optimization as a generalization of Lagrange multiplicators matched with empirical data. The specific results of this project will enable us to measure rheology with only very limited amount of substance. An additional advantage is that this can be done with easy to handle and achievable equipment, for example a power bench with controlled displacement and respective logged forces. As such, internal shear stresses and flow of medical substances can be modelled easily and accurately, whereas the substance would be otherwise (too) expensive to assess with complex and expensive equipment, normally needed for extensive rheological studies. The acquired info can directly be deployed in the design and optimization of next generation medical applicators, e.g. for intradermal vaccination and/or for therapeutic cell delivery, optimized for therapeutic efficiency and usability. The broader aim of this project is to initiate a method to incorporate state-of-the-art mathematical optimization techniques within the design process of products that require close interaction with the human body. This overall aim will contribute in the long run to the dissemination of powerful mathematical methods for practical applications in product development and industrial design. As such, the project could be a germ for a future proof, data-driven product development process. Insights gained in practical applications and design problems could, in turn, provide input for future math developments.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Optimization of a microfluidic strip and device through design and engineering of the diagnosis rate of the minimum inhibitory concentrations (mi) of antibiotics (MIC-STRIP). 01/02/2019 - 31/07/2020

Abstract

Early availability of information on bacterial pathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility is of key importance for the management of infectious disease patients. MIC-STRIP is a novel phenotypic approach that achieves readout of the antibiotic susceptibility profile of a bacterial infection within 4 hours, moving the time to modify antibiotic treatment from the next day to within the same day.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

The use of 3D technology for the restoration of complex cultural heritage objects. 01/01/2019 - 31/12/2023

Abstract

Fragile and very detailed cultural heritage objects, such as sculptured ceramics, can't be restored manually without further damage. 3D technology could be a great help in the process of repair. This includes 3D scanning, modelling, and 3D printing. A restored object, which is treated for aesthetic, commercial or museological purposes and with sustainable materials, has an overall greater value. For example, the proposed research would make it possible to produce replicas of fine and detailed sculptures for a better tactile sense experiences. There are four main aims in this research proposal: - Developing a method for restorers by creating a digital toolbox: what kind of scanning, modelling and printing techniques are available and for what type of sculpted ceramics or other artworks could they be used? - Therefore, there is also the need to get more insight the damages present in cultural heritage, starting with sculptured ceramic objects. - Defining which conditions are necessary for a good repair: Authenticity and other values are important to consider during conservation and the correspondent ethical decision has an influence on the visual result in the end. - Formulation and validation of the methodology by a collection of cases.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Caretech: missing link between research, development and application of care techology 01/01/2019 - 31/12/2019

Abstract

At the university of Antwerp, innovative products/services are defined based on state of the art scientific knowledge and technology. The aim of this project is to develop a workflow to facilitate and accelerate transition from these innovations in the domain of health and health care, to actual enrollment.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Validation of markerless body tracking for real world gait analysis. 01/07/2018 - 31/12/2019

Abstract

Markerless motion tracking became very popular and common since the introduction of the Microsoft Kinect in 2010 in both the gaming community and industry. To use markerless motion tracking in the field of medical rehabilitation, a higher accuracy and reliability is needed. To achieve this goal, we will combine a 2-D skeleton detection algorithm with the data from multiple 3-D cameras. The developed procedure will be validated with the marker-based Vicon system of the M²OCEAN lab and calibrated 3D body scans of subjects in static position. Afterwards, the technique will be implemented on a treadmill to evaluate the gait of a person. To simulate real world gait information, subjects will wear virtual reality glasses. This virtual environment stimulates the brain and influences the gait of a person, which results in extra information compared to stand alone treadmill walking.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Scapula Tilter: correction of scapular dyskinesis in patients with subacromial pain syndrome: the ffect of an orthopedic device. 01/09/2017 - 01/03/2019

Abstract

Subacromial pain syndrome is the most common cause of shoulder pain, accounting for 50% of all shoulder pain cases. Scapular dyskinesis has shown to be a key factor associated with many shoulder disorders, such as the subacromial pain syndrome and glenohumeral shoulder instability. Two Master students product development have created (and privately defended) a basic prototype of an orthopaedic device that is aimed at correcting the scapular position. The current project proposal is aimed at bringing this product to the market. First, the prototype will be further developed and adapted with confirmation of its efficacy, i.e. the apparatus can indeed correct scapular position. Second, this improved prototype will be used within a smallscale clinical study to demonstrate that the apparatus can reduce pain in patients with subacromial pain syndrome. At the same time, a trajectory of valorization will be developed to investigate the possibilities of bringing the product to the market.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Developing a user-friendly control system for a dexterous arm prosthesis for children with a bilateral transverse arm reduction 01/07/2017 - 31/12/2018

Abstract

The loss of an upper limb dramatically affects a person's daily activities. Recent developments in bionics and prostheses make it possible to compensate this loss of functionality with a bionic robotic hand. These bionic hands are commercially available and can enable a person to perform multiple types of hand movements. Controlling a bionic hand is in most cases based on the interpretation of two surface electromyography (EMG) signals. To control the multiple degrees of freedom (DOF) of a robotic hand with only two EMG signals, a sequential control strategy is used. This sequential control strategy requires a lot of training from the user. Currently different strategies are being developed to enable a user friendly and more efficient type of control. Most developments in the field of upper extremity prostheses are aimed at adults with a single arm reduction. Children with a double arm reduction are often unable to use the available prostheses and those that are available don't provide a solution for their specific needs. This project aims to integrate the most recent developments in prosthesis control and bionic robotics and make them available for children with a double arm reduction. The research is unique and novel because it aspires to develop and verify the use of non-invasive control strategies that enable children with a double or single arm reduction to control prostheses (with multiple DOF) outside of lab conditions. This project is primarily focused on one user. Larrissa (anonymous name) is an 8-year-old Belgium girl that misses both hands and feet. At the age of 1,5 she lost both hands and feet due to illness. Because her current prosthesis (and all other prosthesis) isn't suited for a bilateral amputee and offers little functionality she remains highly dependent on the help of others. The development was initiated in 2015 by Jos d'Haens (BAP physiotherapy, MOVANT) and was complemented with the master thesis of Erik Haring. This collaborative project between the department of Product Development and Rehabilitation sciences and physiotherapy at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences resulted in a first prototype of a prosthetic socket, designed for Larissa. Jos d'Haens developed a miniaturised robotic hand that can perform three primary grip types. The compact dimensions make this bionic hand especially suitable for children. The prototype of the prosthetic socket (physical connection with the wearer) was the tangible output of the master thesis of Erik Haring. This project aims to provide the missing link, a user-friendly and intuitive control system that translates human input into desired movements of the robotic hand. We defined two clusters of research questions within the project 1. Human input: Which signals can be captured within the stump of the child? Are these signals suitable to serve as input for an intuitive control strategy for the prosthesis? 2. Control strategy: How can we transform these signals into a user-friendly control strategy? 2.1 Focus on movements: Developing a prosthesis control strategy that enables the child to perform at least the three primary grip patterns: power grip, precision grip and lateral grip. With these three grips users can perform 80% of the most common daily activities. 2.2 Focus on intuitive use and user-friendliness: With the actual feedback of the child we aim for a control system that can activate at least three grip patterns in a user-friendly and intuitive way. Apart from a functional fit, we will gather user feedback on the social acceptance of the movements and look of the prosthesis. We hope to apply and expand the knowledge and insights obtained from this study to other projects for young amputees. The methodology could serve as a basis for the development and design of similar intuitive and child friendly control strategies for prosthesis and assistive devices.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Development of a modular product-architecture for wearable EEG headsets (Ctrl-Mind). 01/07/2017 - 30/06/2018

Abstract

Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) enable the user to control his or her environment directly, omitting the need for speech and/or bypassing the neuro‐muscular system. The BCI market is expected to have an annual growth of 15% the forthcoming decade. Non‐invasive BCIs, based on caption of EEG signals, have an expected share of 40% of this grow market. Current R&D roadmaps mainly focus on technology development and – adaptation. One of the key facilitators to unlock this market, complementary to current roadmaps, is the development of user –friendly wearable EEG headsets. This POC project responds to this opportunity by combining two innovative R&D aspects. We combine 1) state‐of‐the art parametric design methods for using statistical shape models of the human body (3D anthropometry) in product development (3D ergonomics) with 2) an innovative system for automatic electrode positions, to construct an architecture for wearable EEG‐headsets that is modular, in the sense that the design allows for various embodiments in function of target population and BCI‐application. The resulting development platform will allow exploitation in a B2B setting in the abovementioned growing BCI market.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

ColdID: prevention of nail toxicity at cancer patients. 01/06/2017 - 31/05/2019

Abstract

Cytotoxic chemotherapy is a commonly used treatment for curing breast cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer. Cytotoxic chemotherapy may however also induce serious side effects such as nail changes (e.g., color, brittleness, damages, ...). In its most severe form, this may lead to onycholysis or the releasing of a portion of the nail, which is often preceded or accompanied by severe pain. Nail toxicity is observed at 44% of patients treated with taxanes. Nail toxicity can be avoided or mitigated through the use of ice gloves. Ice gloves are cooled to -20 ° C and worn during a chemotherapeutic treatment. Unfortunately, the use of ice gloves is very painful and therapeutic compliances are limited. This project allows to develop a medical instrument to avoid nail toxicity at cancer patients. The instrument aims to allow a painless and effective prevention of nail toxicity.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

InLocoMotion: Dynamic 3D human body shapes from static 3D scans and sparse motion tracking for the improvement of human-product systems: a case on cycling drag force estimation 01/01/2017 - 31/12/2020

Abstract

The human body is a complex biomechanical system with a large anatomical diversity. New methods for industrial design are emerging based on accurate 3D models and statistical analysis of their rich spatial geometry and complex variations. Most applications of this 3D anthropometry in the field of Product Development are confined to static 3D shapes, whereas many products such as garments, (space) suits, sports equipment, medical devices, vehicles, and household appliances might benefit from accurate dynamic deforming 3D models of the human body. Currently, even for products that dynamically interact with the human body (e.g. shoes), only static geometric information is considered, thereby ignoring the potential to consider full 3D surface in motion and dynamic deformation. In this Baekeland PhD project, we will construct and validate design methods to use dynamic 3D anthropometry in the process of product development and extend the use of static 3D anthropometry. We will combine the aforementioned state-of-the-art statistical shape models with state-of-the-art animation techniques and translate them to CAD tools and techniques to support the envisioned extension. Firstly, a method is provided to generate any individual 3D body shape in any position from a combination of geometrical shape information and temporal position parameters that is both easy to assess. Shape information will comprise an individual's shape in a static pose, e.g. standing position, or a set of 1D anthropometric parameters. Position parameters will be achieved by adapting reliable and accurate of-site motion capturing techniques. We will also investigate how product developers might use these parameterized person-specific dynamic 3D models in the process of product development i.e., what shape and position information they need during the design process and what the requirements are on that information such that they will use it most effectively. This will pinpoint how product developers will preferably interact with the envisioned human-product models. Next, these requirements will be used to develop CAD tools and techniques in which products can be designed on person-specific dynamic human body models, and resulting human-product models can be tuned and optimized by a anthropometric measurements and position parameters. For instance, a stack of person-specific human-product models can be generated with the same effort required to generate only one such model. Finally, we will validate our method by simulating drag force of cyclists, in comparison to ground truth values in a wind tunnel. The target is to come very close to real drag force values with a fraction of the cost and investment. Although this PhD will directly contribute to the subfield of aero-design and engineering in cycling, the lead up methods will also prove the accuracy of underlying models. We will thus establish a direct and accurate link for the product developer between human(-product) CAD models and the actual physical model to support simulation, verification and validation. Our method will improve the process of product development in several aspects. It will have the potential to reduce development costs by omitting the need for physical prototyping. An early stage verification of product functionality and composition of design specifications will require less iterations and entail a shorter time to market for new products. Our method will not only enhance comfort and functionality of final products but will also allow to develop new categories of consumer and medical wearable products, that owe their functionality to close and dynamic product-body interaction and extensive ergonomics.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Virtual SIZE. 01/12/2016 - 30/06/2019

Abstract

The project's overall aim is to develop a technology platform that allows developing cycling apparel with an optimized fit based on personal measurements. The first objective is to develop a measurement system that allows to measure an individual cyclist. The second objective makes it possible to develop a 3D shape model of trunk and limbs of a cyclists.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Accuracy of vibrotactile feedforward for posture and motion steering. 01/07/2016 - 31/12/2017

Abstract

The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It is a barrier between our body and the environment protecting us from dehydration, infection and injuries. The skin thus provides us with a sense of touch which has several functions such as 1) providing tactile information about our environment and 2) providing input to enable motor interactions with our direct environment e.g. grasping and manipulating objects. Due to the bimodal functionality of the tactile sense, the skin is particularly interesting for communicating motion related instructions through haptic cues directly engaging our motor learning systems. Opportunities for applications have been identified in sports and training, surgery, music, navigation, prosthesis, to develop assistive devices e.g. navigation aid for the visually impaired and for balance correction in vestibular disorders, to attain correct posture, gait, and for the purpose of rehabilitation e.g. after stroke. However, research is mainly confined to in-lab applications. In order to unlock the realm of opportunities for off-site applications, wearable haptic communication systems for posture and movement management should be developed and evaluated. Thereby vibrotactile signals directly deployed onto the skin are identified most promising for wearable systems. Frequency, intensity/amplitude, burst, and rhythm characteristics for optimal perception at various body locations are known in literature. We will investigate the accuracy of a basic system that steers actual posture and movement towards a reference condition through feedforward, that is, the subject receiving instructions on the actual or future desired reference condition. The independent variable in our study design is the feedforward time. The depended variable is a measure accuracy obtained by integrating the total immediate joint angle differences of desired and reference position over the time domain. An optimal feedforward time is explored and validated for movement instructions and for obstacle avoidance with vision and in blindfolded subjects.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Development and validation of an electrode positioning system for EIM measurement. 01/05/2016 - 30/06/2017

Abstract

Active muscle contractions are measured through elektro myography (EMG), where the electrical signals of nerves causing the muscle to contract are measured. The challenge is to measure inactive muscle contraction, aslo known as enhanced muscle tone, were no causing electrical signal is produced, however the muscle is in a contracted state. A well-known inconvenience is an enhanced muscle tone of the trapezius (stiff neck), in which physiotherapy is commonly applied to relieve the disease. In this project we aim to develop a method to measure muscle contraction independent from EMG signals, that can be applied to measure muscle tone and assess the effect of physiotherapy in patients who suffer an enhanced muscle tone.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Assessment of electrode pressure and signal quality of improved wearable EEG headset prototypes 01/04/2016 - 31/03/2017

Abstract

The human body appears in many sizes and shapes. Traditional anthropometry aims to map linear-1D- geometrical body characteristics and their statistical distributions. Advancements in 3D scanning, image construction and image processing resulted in a realm of databases containing true and accurate 3D forms of the human body, with accelerated construction of new body forms and databases. A statistical shape model is a collection of 3D forms such that each point on a given form has a corresponding point on any other form of that collection. Moreover, in a statistical shape model of the human body (or body part), similar anatomical landmarks ought to correspond, for example the tip of each nose; statistical shape models take account of the true-3D- geometrical variation of the human body. With the appropriate design tools to make the wealth on geometrical information contained in statistical shape models available for the purpose of product development, better products can be developed, especially: more comfortable, better fitting and thereby better functioning products. In current optical 3D scans, subjects wear a hairnet to prevent artifacts and to reconstruct the form of their skull. However the actual skull form is only approximated due to the presence of hair layer, lacking abilities in traditional 3D scanning to construct a true and accurate statistical shape model of the human skull. In the doctorate of D. Lacko, statistical shape models of the human skull are constructed from medial images (CT and MRI scans) thereby excluding the effect of hair. Complementing CAD tools and methods for parametric design, sizing systems and true generic manikins [22] allow developing new products that closely interact with the human skull such as hearing aids and wearable electroencephalogram (EEG) headsets. EEG is a technique to measure brain activity through detection of small electric field fluctuations by sensitive electrodes, amplification and signal processing. EEG registration has a myriad of potential clinical and off-site applications comprising diagnosis of e.g. ALS, Alzheimer, polysomnography, epilepsy monitoring, enriched, augmented, supplemented or alternative communication, research e.g. cognitive processing and didactics, associations, commercial applications such as gaming and neuro-marketing,... The development of wearable, comfortable, acceptable and calibrated EEG headsets is needed to improve clinical use and to boost potential off-site applications. With the accurate shape model of the human skull combined with CAD tools, non-functional wearable EEG headsets (mock-ups) are developed within the research groups Product Development and Vision Lab with the following prperties: 1) better fit and stability and 2) reproducible electrode positioning on the skull after successive mounting, compared to current commercially available EEG headsets. The research hypothesis is that our EEG headsets with these assets will also allow capturing EEG signals with improved signal quality. This hypothesis was never investigated due to the lack of stable fitting EEG headsets with calibrated and reproducible electrode positioning on the skull. Within this project, resources are asked to endow our EEG mock-ups with pressure and impedance/admittance measurements for testing this hypothesis.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Multidisciplinary research on vaccination and infectious diseases (Vaxinfectio-PO). 01/01/2015 - 31/12/2020

Abstract

Integrated vaccine and microbiological research with a focus on increasing the understanding of the immune response in prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines (including tumour vaccines) and on the containment of antibiotic resistance. Several innovative research topics are ongoing or in the pipeline: potential development of theranostic devices (e.g. rapid Point of Care Diagnostics, optical biosensors, lab-on-chip, microarrays) for pathogen detection and associated resistance in collaboration with several European research partners; potential development of new rapid diagnostic tests and injection devices; potential development of patient-specific cellular vaccines for targeted antiviral and anticancer therapy.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

CADANS: A CAD platform for 3D Statistical anthropometric Design. 01/01/2014 - 31/12/2015

Abstract

The project aims to develop tools and techniques to deploy the wealth of information contained in statistical shape models of the human body in the process of new product development. The focus is on the deployment of shape models of the human head, in close colaboration with stakeholders from industry.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project

Investigation of a new medical device with guaranteed collection of first fraction urine for the detection of human papilloma virus (COLLI-PEE). 01/07/2013 - 30/06/2014

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand Novosanis. UA provides Novosanis research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract. Vaxinfectio took care of clinical investigations and Product Development took care of the optimization of usability aspects. The project received the IWT-award 2015 in the category societal relevance.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

    Project type(s)

    • Research Project

    Categorical Probability. 01/01/2007 - 31/12/2008

    Abstract

    We aim to apply approach theorie, developed by the research group ATS, on spaces of measures, and thus to obtain a generalisation of the already exisiting so called weak approach structure on such spaces. Thereby, the interaction with the already existing convexity theories [Z. Semadeni, N. Pumpluen, R. Rohrl] will be of paramount importance, as it will enable us to recover the algebraic component of our theory. Thus we have strong indications to obtain a monad for describing Stochastic Processes [M. Giry] in a non metrical context.

    Researcher(s)

    Research team(s)

    Project type(s)

    • Research Project