In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science

Madhur Rajendran

will defend his thesis

A Personalized Avatar and Physical Activity Game

Abstract

In this thesis, we present a novel method to calculate energy expenditure in subjects using the Microsoft Kinect. There are two main types of methods used in calorimetry, direct and indirect. Direct calorimetry involves the measurement of actual heat transfer of the subject, which is infeasible in most situations. Indirect calorimetry, however, involves measuring secondary variables, like oxygen consumption, and using those measurements to calculate energy expenditure. Our method is an indirect calorimetry metho d, that uses basic physics laws of work and energy to calculate the energy expenditure of a body, by continuously tracking a body through the Microsoft Kinect.

We also develop and outline a process of 3D scanning a person in order to use them as avatars in a game. We test the feasibility and benefits of using such personalized avatars in game.

Lastly, we also develop a physical activity game, that serves as a wrapper for both the proposed energy expenditure method, and the personalized avatar.

Date: Friday, April 8, 2016
Time: 1:00 PM
Place: PGH 550
Advisor: Dr. Zhigang Deng

Faculty, students, and the general public are invited.