Our Project
I worked in a team of eight people to develop a device that provides physicians with quantitative information about Parkinson’s Disease so that the physicians can minimize medication off-periods. Our device quantifies when a Parkinson’s Disease patient experiences a freezing of gait episode, which is when he or she is unable to take a step forward, despite exerting considerable pressure. The sporadic pattern of applied pressure during a freezing of gait episode differs drastically from the cyclic pattern of normal walking. Our device uses a force-sensing resistor and an Arduino microcontroller to measure the pressure the patient applies to their heel. For our data analysis, we use MATLAB to perform a Discrete Fast Fourier Transform on the pressure v. time data and generate a normalized power spectrum. We developed complete conceptual and mathematical models for both the data acquisition and analysis. After testing our device, we used an ANOVA test and paired t-tests to statistically analyze the results. Further testing and improvements are required, but given the timeframe for fabrication, the device was a success.
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Personal Growth
While working on this project, I learned several valuable skills. For example, I utilized advanced inquiry techniques to research physiological causes, symptoms, and treatments for Parkinson’s Disease discussed in reputable peer-reviewed articles. I developed a firm knowledge basis by asking insightful questions, utilizing logical reasoning, and researching solutions to gaps in our group’s understanding. Throughout the semester, I worked with my team to share information, make decisions, and communicate our engineering process via presentations and technical papers. These skills provide me the foundation on which I can build my career.
I not only developed my inquiry, knowledge-building, teamwork, and communication skills, but I also had the opportunity to create value for Parkinson’s Disease patients. Our device can be used to help diagnose and treat patients all across the world. All I have ever wanted to do was make a positive impact, and this course reaffirmed my commitment. For example, I had not been exposed to much statistical analysis before taking this class, but my curiosity and desire to do good in the world led me to research its applications on my own time, which helped me analyze the applicability of our device to patients with Parkinson’s Disease. My greatest strength is my ability to continue caring despite any obstacle I face, whether it’s a gap in knowledge or a lack of resources, because I know that if I can make a difference, it will be worth it.
I not only developed my inquiry, knowledge-building, teamwork, and communication skills, but I also had the opportunity to create value for Parkinson’s Disease patients. Our device can be used to help diagnose and treat patients all across the world. All I have ever wanted to do was make a positive impact, and this course reaffirmed my commitment. For example, I had not been exposed to much statistical analysis before taking this class, but my curiosity and desire to do good in the world led me to research its applications on my own time, which helped me analyze the applicability of our device to patients with Parkinson’s Disease. My greatest strength is my ability to continue caring despite any obstacle I face, whether it’s a gap in knowledge or a lack of resources, because I know that if I can make a difference, it will be worth it.