Position: Postdoctoral Fellow
Current Institution: University of Pennsylvania
Abstract: Computation of Human Performance
Computation of human performance is the quantification analysis and modification of an individual’s ability to perform a task. This is accomplished through sensor design data collection model development and the creation of intelligent feedback systems. Because of the reliance on high-quality data the first and often the most time-consuming step in many research endeavors is to build a data collection system. To remedy this we developed Raproto an open-source easy-to-use rapid prototyping platform that facilitates data collection and visualization from sensors on commercially available off-the-shelf devices or custom-made devices. Currently Raproto is being used in various scenarios including studies on Opioid Sensing and Post Partum Hemorrhage detection. Further highly-specialized devices called SoftWear: soft wearable devices with sensors made from fabric that integrate seamlessly into clothing can be easily connected to our system. Softwear devices are being used for joint angle analysis as well as athletic performance monitoring. At the pinnacle of human performance is high-performance athletics. These top athletes work every day to push the limits of human performance. Quantification and analysis of their movement and energetic demands with an appropriate feedback system not only increases their performance and competition results but decreases the likelihood of injury. Using our devices and systems we partnered with William & Mary athletics to enhance the performance of their football lacrosse and basketball teams.
Bio:
Amanda Watson is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the PRECISE Center at the University of Pennsylvania. She is mentored by James Weimer and Insup Lee. Previously she was a member of the LENS lab where she researched wearable technology with Gang Zhou. She received her Ph.D in Computer Science from the College of William and Mary in 2020 a M.S. in Computer Science from the College of William and Mary in 2016 and a B.A. in Computer Science and Mathematics from Drury University in 2014 where she was a 4 year letterman on the varsity volleyball team.