Development of a 3d spinal model superimposed display system based on seating posture in a wheelchair

Abstract

Seating posture in a wheelchair is important as incorrect posture can cause pressure sores and deformation of the spinal shape in turn causing other problems such as swallowing, respiratory, and other difficulties. One evaluation indicator of the posture is the shape of the spinal curve. However, it is impossible to measure the shape directly using seated patients. This paper proposes a posture evaluation system that estimates the position and the shape of the spine. With the proposed system, the 30 position of markers placed on a subject are measured using a stereo camera and the spinal shape is estimated. A 30 spine model is then generated according to the posture and superimposed in the camera view.