Clinical Research
Clinical Research
The CAREN system offers a unique platform for clinical research and rehabilitation by providing exceptional flexibility and precision of prescribed sensory perturbations, and the ability to simultaneously collect multimodal physiological data. This real-time system allows clinicians and clinical researchers to use their trained judgment to tailor training and rehabilitation protocols to individual patients. Areas of clinical research include both basic science and rehabilitation focuses in the area of balance, movement, and cognitive performance.
CAREN dome inside the STRIVE center.
Operational Excellence
Operational Excellence
In challenging operational environments, field site training is often difficult and expensive to develop. The CAREN provides a virtual serious gaming environment where a first responder or unit commander can develop the appropriate physical agility, improve operational-specific decision making skills, and learn from mistakes made. This flexible environment provides added experience by allowing multiple scenarios to be completed in a single day. Knowledge gained from these experiences will result in more efficient and successful operations when translated to the real world.
U.S. Army Medical Evacuation. Photo credit: U.S. Army
Technology Development
Technology Development
Field testing is essential to rigorously evaluate many human optimization techniques and emerging wearable technologies, such as exoskeletons, physiological status monitors, and heads-up displays. The standard laboratory setting lacks many aspects of the real world that are often not considered during design and development of these technologies. A physically immersive environment, such as the CAREN, provides a more real-world testing platform for systematic and quick evaluation even during early design phases, while also capturing many gold standard laboratory metrics. This data will provide constructive feedback to developers and enrich the development process.
Prosthetic knee in use on stairs. Photo credit: U.S. Army
Training for Success
Training for Success
Developing proficiency in a specialized physical or cognitive skill often requires years of experience to become a qualified expert. The multimodal sensing capabilities of the CAREN can quantify specific physical characteristics that identify these individuals and be used as benchmarks for training. Providing biofeedback via sensory cues assists novices to more quickly improve their skills in tasks such as dismounted marksmanship or rapid threat identification. The CAREN provides both a way to learn more about the basic physiology of skilled experts and an interactive method for enhanced learning.
Soldiers in training exercise. Photo Credit: U.S. Army
