Computer Science Colloquium, 2004-2005

Yoram Baram
Department of Computer Science, Technion.
March 16, 2005

Walking on tiles: from neuronal diffusion to safe and steady motion

First, it will be shown that visual stabilization and navigation can be facilitated by an array of elementary neurons that realize a spatial diffusion process. This may explain why birds and sharks approach their prey in curved trajectories. Bounds on the convergence time and the fault tolerance of the diffusion process will be presented.

These observations have led us to the development of an apparatus, which creates dynamic virtual environments, such as tiled floors, for aiding people with motion disorders. The device has been tested on Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis and Senile Gait patients, and found to significantly improve walking abilities. Clinical test results and video clips will be presented.


Shuly Wintner
Last modified: Thu Mar 3 16:38:53 IST 2005