How real-time technology can improve the quality of life

Abstract

In the February issue, we looked at an application of interactive real-time graphics systems for entertainment. Previous columns have dealt with interactive gaming, simulation and other areas. In this column, we present two articles about ways in which the same kind of real-time technology can be applied with the goal of improving quality of life."How's your health?"There is no doubt that physical and mental health help from a foundation on which to build a happy, satisfying life. People who suffer from phobias or other "anxiety disorders" are often painfully aware of the impact these can have on their happiness and their lives. For some, activities which most of us don't think twice about --- like driving a car to work or being flown to a favorite vacation spot --- can be seemingly insurmountable obstacles to personal fulfillment. Could it be that computer technology can help people surmount some of these fears? In our first article, Mark and Brenda Wiederhold --- both medical professionals from southern California --- give us a look at some of the work being done in this area.Sometimes, mental stress, fatigue and depression are caused by physical pain. Cancer patients frequently suffer excessive pain and this only adds to the psychological trauma of the whole experience. In Japan, Dr. Hiroshi Oyama and others at the National Cancer Center Hospital and the Mitsubishi Electric Corporation are working to help relieve some of this stress. They are developing a "wellness system" to try to ease some of the anxiety and stress that cancer patients experience, by allowing them to virtually experience a natural environment, from the convenience of their bedside. Our second article describes this ongoing effort, and some of their initial findings.A reminder --- we are very interested in hearing from our readers. In particular, if you are involved in a new (real-time, interactive) application, or have a related topic that you think might be interesting to share with the SIGGRAPH membership through our column, please let us know. Also, if you have feedback to offer on current or past columns, we would be more than glad to hear it!