F.R.A.M.E. (facial remote activity monitoring eyewear) An inconspicuous, non-invasive, mobile sensor device for real-time control of assistive technologies through facial expression.
FUNDER
NIHR i4i
VALUE
£846,293
PROJECT TEAM
Mr Charles Nduka (Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust)
Professor Philip Breedon (Nottingham Trent University)
Graeme Cox (Emteq Ltd)
Karen Johnson (Facial Palsy UK)
Professor Ala Szczepura (Coventry University)
Vanessa Venebles (Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust)
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Facial paralysis results in weakness of the facial muscles, typically on one side of the face, affecting the facial function, appearance and communication of emotions. The objective of the project is to develop a working prototype and trial (through proof-of concept clinical studies) an inconspicuous, non-invasive wearable device (indistinguishable from normal spectacles) that provides discreet feedback on facial muscle movement and helps patients to continuously practise facial muscle exercises. This will speed patient recovery, provide direct NHS costs and time benefits and offer patients significant improvements in their facial function and quality of life.