Active gaming using microsoft kinect in solving obesity problem

• Main Author: Tan, Vincent Sin Chia
• Format: Undergraduates Project Papers
• Language: English
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: QA76 Computer software
• Online Access: http://umpir.ump.edu.my/id/eprint/12530/1/12.Active%20gaming%20using%20microsoft%20kinect%20in%20solving%20obesity%20problem.PDF; http://umpir.ump.edu.my/id/eprint/12530/
• Institution: Universiti Malaysia Pahang

Obesity has seen an alarming rate of growth with its widespread influences at both local and global scale trigger a global urgency in solving this problem. In South East Asia, our beloved country Malaysia tops the list for the wrong reason as the fattest country in ASEAN with two of out of five adults are obese. The fattest country in the world is represented by Kuwait with a staggering number of 42.8% of total population are obese. 11 This widespread epidemic is soaring among children and teens. As a result, chronic ailments such as diabetes is becoming an unusual norm in today society. [2] In this research, electronic means are explored in order to provide a feasible solution to counter the rising problem of obesity. The study will cover the utilization of Microsoft Kinect as the viable solution in promoting active gaming among the obesity patients with the assistance of engaging and interactive game play that is designed to cater the physical ability of obesity patients. In addition, in this study, Microsoft Kinect would be the primary input that receive gestures performed by user while recognition of gestures will be done in Unity 3D game engine as to translate the detected gestures into motion or functionalities inside the designated game. Furthermore, the core gesture advocated in this active game is none other than the running gesture which represents a good form of cardiac workout which is one of the main solution towards obesity other than proper dieting. Besides, in this game, obesity patient or user will get to know the approximate value of calories burned. Lastly, this research is intended to propose a solution in form of an active game that is designed to promote active lifestyle among obesity patients.