Using motion capture technology in autism research

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Using motion capture technology in autism research

Our Living Lab uses mobile and wearables technology to conducts research and innovation studies with users not just in our labs on campus but also out in the real world. We have been building up a project to study the motor synchrony between autistic people and their communication partner.

Jonathan Delafield Butt and Szu Ching Lu
Director, Laboratory for Innovation in Autism, and Research Associate

Photo of Jonathan Delafield-Butt and Szu-Ching Lu

Project
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Why use a motion sensor suit?

With the motion sensor suit, we can capture the full body motion of two individuals at the same time during their social interaction. The portable and wireless setup allows the motion capture to be done in a realistic social context rather than a laboratory setting.

A man and woman standing next to a robot.

Testing in affordable ways

Much of what we are trying to do with this technology is explore if and how screening, and testing for specific conditions or behaviours can be done at scale in affordable ways in the real world and not just specialised labs with specialised equipment.

By studying the motor synchrony between autistic people and their communication partner, we expect to provide a better understanding of the motor challenges in autism during their social interaction.

Better understanding

This better understanding could further help develop the support required to cope with the motor challenges, and hence improve the quality of life for autistic people and their families.

Look at other case studies

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Using motion capture technology in autism research