Usability testing of 2D and 3D displays in an immersive upper extremity exercise testbed

We present a novel immersive upper extremity exercise testbed for activities of daily living (ADLs). The system comprises a seven degrees-of-freedom robotic arm and an off-the-shelf projective 3D display. The manipulator and the display device correspond to the motor function and cognitive function, respectively. ADL tasks that involve upper extremity exercises are important for improving real-life functional performance. ADL tasks usually involve manipulation and/or reaching for an object between desk level and head level. Of the various movements possible, our participants performed point-to-point reaching movements, which are related to ADL tasks, using the proposed system, and we compared 2D and 3D display devices. Three groups, i.e., able-bodied, spinal cord injury, and chronic stroke groups, participated in the reaching tasks. The 3D display was more effective for performing point-to-point reaching movements.