Experimental Analysis of Virtual Reality as a Stimulus in Posturography

Abstract: The aim of this Master Thesis was to measure and quantify the effect of a continuous visual stimulus on postural stability. The visual stimulus was applied using a Head Mounted Display through which the image of a vertically rotating cylinder was projected. It was hoped that the relationship between the speed of rotation of the cylinder and the body sway of the subject would be quantified through the process of System Identification. By creating a model of how a healthy subject reacts to the visual stimulus it is hoped that this technology may be used to diagnose and treat those with deficient postural control.