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Institute for Human Centered Engineering

« The most wonderful sensation for young engineers is to see their ideas and their creativity leading into a useful and economically successful product.»

Prof. Dr. Marcel Jacomet, Head of HuCE

Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE

We combine new technologies and our know-how we have acqui-red from research projects in an interdisciplinary way to develop new products for industry and hospitals.

Core CompetencesOur core competences are:• Complex control, signal and image proces-

sing• Research, analyses and implementation of

hardware-algorithms into FPGAs and ASICs• Development of miniaturized systems, from

prototypes to industrial volume ramp-up• Computer perception and virtual-reality simu-

lation• Research in optical coherence tomography

(OCT) technology and applications• Sensors and sensor networks• Development of biometric authentication

algorithms• Biomedical engineering and applications We apply our broad core-competences in research and design projects both in industrial and in the area of biomedical enginee-ring applications.

TeamRoughly 60 staff members are working at HuCE. More than 40 young engineers and PhD candidates are carrying out research and industrial projects together with 18 professors.

Research GroupsmicroLab: hardware-algorithms, microelectronics, signal proces-sing, control, fast prototyping, low-power and high-speed ASIC designoptoLab: optics, OCTroboticsLab: micro-robotic, mechatronicsscienceLab: numerics, statistics, data-miningcpvrLab: image processing, medical image analysis, haptics, biometry and authenticationBME Lab: biomedical engineering, biomechanics, intelligentmedical instruments, sensors, biomedical signal processing and analysis

SpecialtiesVarious spin-off companies emerging from the HuCE institute have een founded in the last few years, e.g. Delta-Robotics Inc. in themedical field, AXSionics Inc. in the security field and Axiamo GmbH in the sport field.

HuCE is equipped with modern infrastructure for fast-prototypingin mechanical and electronic area, including a 3D plotter laser welding machine, ASIC die- and wire bonder, and a SMD/BGA pick, place and soldering system.

Our flexible collaboration model for services and R&D projects allows us to start industrial projects within a week.

ContactDr. Marcel JacometProfessor for Microelectronics+41 32 321 62 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered Engineering Quellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch

Research Group HuCE – BME Lab

CompetencesIn our research group Biomedical Engineering (HuCE – BME Lab), we combine technologies of different engineering disciplines to develop specific solutions to challenges arising in medicine and biology. Here, we benefit from our competences in the fields of biomechanics, biomedical sensors and actuators, electronics, telemetry, signal and image processing and engineering physics. We focus our research and development activities on applications of electronic implants, biomedical instrumentation, electronic healthcare, and optical instruments for diagnosis. Current R&D projects include bioreactors for tissue engineering, capsule implants, diagnosis of apnea, energy harvesting, multi-electrode measurements of heart cell cultures as well as optoacoustic imaging.

PartnershipsCompanies and Foundations• RMS Foundation • Synthes• Medivation AG• Haag-Streit• Reber Informatik und Engineering

University of Bern • Department of Clinical Research• Department of Physiology• Ruminants Clinic• Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology• ARTORG, Cardiovascular Engineering

Bern University of Applied Sciences• Institute for Rehabilitation and Performance Technology• Communication Design• Health Section

InfrastructureThe modern infrastructure of the HuCE – BME Lab includes equipment for fast-prototyping like a 3D plotter, a tunable pulsed nanosecond laser, high-end measurement devices like LeCroy 20 GS/s oscilloscopes, mobile and wireless bio-signal acquisition devices (Clevemed, ADIn-struments), a PCB and SMD workplace with a semi-automatic SMD assembly device, and a temperature and climate test chamber.

ContactDr. Jörn JustizProfessor for Medical Engineering and Physics+41 32 321 62 [email protected]

Prof. Dr. Volker M. KochDirector, Master's Programs DivisionDeputy Director, MSc Biomedical Engineering+41 32 321 63 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered EngineeringQuellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/bmelab

Research Group HuCE – cpvrLab

CompetencesThe Computer Perception and Virtual Reality research lab (HuCE – cpvrLab) focuses its research on the analysis of image and video signals, haptic feedback as well as the visualization and user-friendly interaction with three-dimensional data. Using state-of-the-art input devices and visualization techniques, complex data can be processed in a novel way and made accessible intuitively. Problems of particular interest of our research and development activities are in the area of medical image analysis and proces-sing, optical coherence tomography and optical tracking. Virtual Reality focuses on haptics, multimodal interaction techniques and interaction in virtual environments. In the area of biometrics, we focus on the development of authentication algorithms based on fingerprints, signature and iris scans. Current research and deve-lopment projects are being undertaken in the scope of computer-aided diagnosis, computer-assisted surgery, preoperative planning and optimization problems.

Key ProjectsThe following research (Commission for Technology and Innova-tion CTI) and industrial projects give an overview of the research activities of our group:• MOTASSO: Motillity assessment software• Galilei Dual Scheimpflug analyzer• Evaluation of ultrasound contrast agents • Simulation of pulmonary embolism for CT angiography at redu-

ced radiation exposures• HOVISSE: Haptic osteosynthesis virtual intra-operative surgery

support environment• Operation room interactive surgery workflow simulation• 3D-OCT data processing/visualization• HORUS: Stereoscopic visualization of medical volume data sets

InfrastructureThe modern infrastructure of the HuCE-cpvrLab includes a 4-wall CAVE laboratory equipped for life size 3D stereoscopic visualizati-on and haptic feed-back. Several stereoscopic 3D stereo work-stations, modern cameras for different modalities and a haptics lab for 20 students provide a flexible infrastructure for develop-ment projects. Our broad experience in state-of-the-art software packages and libraries developed in our lab allow competent and effective solutions.

Our flexible collaboration model for services and R&D projects allows us to start industrial projects within a short time.

ContactMarcus HudritschProfessor for Image Processing and Computer Graphics+41 32 321 64 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered EngineeringHöheweg 80CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/cpvrlab

Research Group HuCE – optoLab

CompetencesThe main activities of the research group Optics (HuCE – opto-Lab) focus on optical coherence tomography (OCT). We develop modern Spectral Domain OCT systems with the newest optical components and laser systems. The infrastructure of the HuCE – optoLab allows short term realization of feasibility studies or test measurements in the field of optical sensing. Opto-mechanical and opto-electronic design are among our core competences. A team of specialized and well trained engineers, mainly with an industri-al background, is available for industry project processing.

Key ProjectsThe following research (Commission for Technology and Innova-tion CTI) and industrial projects give an overview of the research activities of the group:• Miniaturized swept source optical coherence engine• Simulation framework for the development

of accommodating Intraocular Lenses (ASF) • Monitoring of teeth erosion (in collaboration

with Zahnklinik, Inselspital Bern)• Skin bioprinting• Eye scanner for topology measurement• Internal fingerprint identification with OCT.

Internal project published in Photonics Technology Letters, IEEE, vol.22, no.7, pp.507-509, April 1, 2010

• Tolerancing assessment for spectrometer. Industry funded project

InfrastructureThe modern infrastructure of the HuCE-optoLab includes: • Spectral Domain OCT systems• Polarization sensitive OCT, Thorlabs• Whitelight sensors, interferometer and vibrometer• Optical spectrum analyzer and different spectrometers• Laser beam analyzer systems (from centimeter to sub-microme-

ter diameter)

ContactChristoph MeierProfessor for Optics+41 32 321 64 [email protected]

Anke BossenLecturer+41 32 321 67 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered Engineering Quellgasse 21 CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/optolab

Research Group HuCE – microLab

CompetencesThe research group HuCE – microLab develops hardware-algorithms in microelectronics, signal-processing and control. The group concentrates on application-specific implementations of algorithms in hardware solutions using ASIC or FPGA. When implementing algorithms using the method of hardware/software co-design, we profit from combinations of both, the flexible mi-croprocessor technology and the high-speed application-specific ASIC/FPGA technology. In our research and development activi-ties, we focus on energy efficiency, processing performance, and miniaturization. Current R&D projects cover the application fields of mass-spectrometry, optical coherence tomography, esophagus ECG recording-systems in biomedical engineering, smart-cards and sensor networks in sports, and healthcare.

Key ProjectsThe following research (Commission for Technology and Innova-tion CTI) and industrial projects give an overview of the research activities of the group:• High-speed data acquisition and signal processing for mass-

spectrometry• Esophageal ECG recorder: electronic implant for long-term ECG

recording• Miniaturized swept-source optical coherence tomography engine• Motion analysis and signal processing in high performance road

racing bicycles• Body sensor network for physical activity recording• Modeling of circuit blocs for integrated sigma-delta modulators

to be used in highresolution analog-to-digital converters• Algorithms for resource-limited fingerprint recognition Infra-

structure

InfrastructureThe modern infrastructure of the HuCE – microLab includes equipment for fast prototyping laser welding machines like a low volume, highly flexible SMD/BGA pick, place and soldering system, die bonder, an automatic wire bonder, a wafer prober for ASIC measuring and testing, CAD tools for ASIC/FPGA design (Xilinx, Cadence, Synopsys, Matlab/Simulink), and high-end measurement devices like LeCroy 20 GS/s oscilloscopes and HP pattern genera-tor/logic analyzers.

Our flexible collaboration model for services and R&D projects allows us to start industrial projects within a week.


Dr. Josef GoetteProfessor for Signal Processing+41 32 321 64 [email protected]

Dr. Ties Jan KluterProfessor for Embedded Systems+41 32 321 67 [email protected]

Dr. Thomas NiederhauserAssistant Professor for Signal Processing+41 32 321 67 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered Engineering Quellgasse 21 CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/microlab

Research Group HuCE – scienceLab

CompetencesThe research group HuCE – scienceLab brings together a group of scientists and engineers from different fields of interest. This group supports internal and external research groups with special skills and knowledge. Daniel Debrunner ([email protected]) designs, interfaces and implements embedded control applications, using ARM Micro-controllers and CANopen systems, amongst other tools. Dr. Walter Businger ([email protected]) has extended experi-ence in statistical data analysis and data mining, in particular for medical applications. Dr. Andreas Stahel ([email protected]) has a vast experience in mathematical modeling (including FEM) and numerical analy-sis, applied to engineering problems. Dr. Bertrand Dutoit ([email protected]) has 10 years of industrial experience in the design of MEMS Sensors (accelerome-ters and gyroscopes), analog electronics, test & packaging as well as product qualification.

Key ProjectsThe following research and industrial projects give an overview of the research activities of the group:• Bragg fiber deformation measurements in construction and

surgery• Development of a scanner for music rolls• Statistical study of lyme disease• Simulation of Novikov-Veselov equations

Publications• Bell B., Stankowski S. et al., Integrating Optical Fiber Force Sen-

sors into Microforceps for ORL Microsurgery, Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc, pp. 1848-1851, 2010.

• S. Gonseth, P. Zwahlen, O. Dietrich, G. Perregaux, R. Frosio, F. Rudolf, B. Dutoit, Breakthrough in High-end MEMS Accelerome-ters, Proceedings of Symposium Gyro Technology, p. 8.1-8.13, Karlsruhe, Germany, 21-22 Sept. 2010.

• Lassas M., Mueller J. L., Siltanen S. and Stahel A., The Novikov-Veselov Equation and the Inverse Scattering Method. Part I: Analysis, Part II: Computation. Submitted manuscripts.

• A. Pfenniger, V.M. Koch, A. Stahel, and R. Vogel, Energy Harves-ting from Variation in Blood Pressure through Deformation of Arterial Wall using Electro-magneto-hydro-dynamics, Comsol Conference, Paris 2010.

Partnerships• ARTORG, Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University

of Bern• Museum für Musikautomaten, Seewen

InfrastructureThe HuCE – ScienceLab has access to the excellent research infra-structure of the Bern University of Applied Sciences:• Accelerometer testing facility • Laser Doppler vibrometer• COMSOL Multiphysics and FEM Software

ContactDr. Andreas Stahel Professor for Mathematics +41 32 321 62 58Bern University of Applied Sciences Engineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered EngineeringQuellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/sciencelab

Research Group HuCE – microLabBody Sensor Network for Physical Activity Recording

Project DescriptionThe physical activities of humans in daily live, at work, in military service, and during sports and sport training can be logged and analyzed.

The uniqueness of the PARTwear system is the tight link to MATLAB/SimulinkTM to design new signal processing algorithms and to download them to the PARTwear devices. The customer can easily design his own feature extraction algorithms, tailored to his requirements and his target application. Furthermore, data recording from multiple devices can simultaneously be captured and send to one of the recording devices, thus building a multiple PARTwear sensor network. The devices small dimensions makes it possible to integrate it into a thin and wearable bracelet or upper arm belt of high wearing comfort. The low power consumption is the basis for activity logging during several weeks or even months.

The device contains 3D accelerator gyros and magnetic field sensors and others featuring a large memory for data logging. Presently, we use several accelerator sensor nodes distributed over the human body, and a commercially available heart-rate sensor belt. The various kind of sensors are used to extract and to monitor physical activity and to draw conclusions on physical stress.

A first small series of more than 100 wireless sensor body network devices have been produced. They serve in a preliminary research with young military privates for a continued 14 day monitoringperiod. Enhancements of the system are made to additionally detect the type of the human activity, like walking, jogging, hiking, skiing, biking, and especially key performance parameters for professional training. We included the wireless sensor device into the commercial local position measurement (LPM) system to track team sport players. Recently the spin-off company Axiamo GmbH has been founded to commercialize the sensor devices with the brand Axiamote.

KeywordsSensors, sensor network, low power, signal analysis, wireless.

Project PartnerIndustry funded projectPeriod: Dec. 2010 to July 2012Partners: Dr. Urs Maeder, Martin Rumo, BASPO, Günter Stelzhammer, Abatec AG, Austria

Project Team at HuCEMichael Gasser, Benjamin Habegger, Damian Weber, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet.

ContactDr. Marcel JacometProfessor for Microelectronics+41 32 321 62 41 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied Sciences Engineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered EngineeringQuellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – microLabMotion Analysis and Signal Processing in Bicycles

Project DescriptionWe perform dynamic motion-analyses of high performance road-racing bicycles featuring carbon frames. We achieve our goals by capturing measurements from various wireless sensor nodes and applying sophisticated signal analysis algorithms to the collected data.

The project explores the relation between statically and dynami-cally determined frame stiffness; it also explores the impact of stiffness on traction and on rider‘s comfort.

We capture different variables describing the racing bicycle and its rider to get an as complete as possible picture: 3D accelera-tions at various frame positions, pedal frequency, pedal force, GPS position, and heart rate. These variables are captured at various positions of the bicycle and the rider. For that purpose, we deve-lop tiny autonomous sensor nodes which communicate with each other. The data analysis will deliver design hints to optimize the mechanical frame construction.

The infrastructure that we develop is the basis for a comprehensi-ve gauging of the bicycle and its rider. We expect novel characte-rization variables for the bicycle construction with respect to ride efficiency and comfort.

KeywordsSensors, sensor network, low power, signal analysis.

Project PartnerIndustry-funded projectPeriod: Oct. 2009 to Dec. 2011Partners: Dr. Herbert Baechler, BMC Swiss

Cycling Technology AG, Grenchen

Project Team at HuCEMichael Gasser, Lukas Kohler, Heinrich Schwarzenbach, Andreas Stahel, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet


Bern University for Applied SciencesEngineering and Information TechnologyInstitute for Human Centered EngineeringQuellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – microLabHigh-Speed Data Acquisition and Signal Processing for Mass Spectrometry

Project DescriptionWe develop for time-of-flight mass spectrometer applications a real-time, high-speed data-acquisition and data-processing sys-tem; we implement it as hardware algorithm.

We achieve a data acquisition rate of 1.5 Giga-samples per second, which is needed for the considered class of mass spectro-meters.

The most challenging problems to be solved have been the high-speed acquisition that produces an enormous amount of data, which can only be handled by on-the-fly data compression/un-compression. We need the real-time compression/uncompression tandem due restrictions in memory bandwidth accompanied by the need of signal-processing for event-triggering, suppression of baseline-wander problems, and the like.

New hardware-architectures and powerful algorithms for the data-acquisition, the data-processing, and the data-analysis allow to measure long signals composed of ultra-short signal pulses that might coming from single aerosol- or nano-particles.

KeywordsHardware-algorithms, microelectronics, FPGA, high-speed signal acquisition and processing

Project PartnerThe project was funded by CTI 10535.2 PFNM-NMPeriod: May 2009 to Nov. 2011Partners: Dr. Christian Tanner, Dr. Marc Gonin, Dr. Martin Tanner,

Tofwerk AG, Thun

Project Team at HuCERoman Held, Rico Zoss, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet




Research Group HuCE – microLabSmart-Phone Application for Real-Time Dietary Assessment and Physical Activity Analysis in Dietary Counseling

Project DescriptionMany overweight/obese adults in the western world need reliable dietary advice. Attractive tools help to log, to analyze, and to display dietary intake and physical activity data over time to provide personalized support and enhance compliance in dietary counseling.

Our objectives are to develop and test a smart-phone application (smartERB) for integrated use in face-to-face dietary counseling of overweight/obese clients. Synchronized real-time assessment of dietary intake and automated capturing and analysis of physical activity visualize the resulting energy balance as a motivational component in dietary counseling.

A system was developed, linking an individualized dietary assess-ment and a physical activity analyzing application for Android smart-phones with a computer-based data analyses program. It is tested for suitability and plausibility, using a discriminant analy-sis. Participating groups are registered dieticians and overweight/obese adult volunteers, joining in a personalized three-week dietary counseling program. Smart-ERB consists of an administra-tive and a user characteristics module, a semi-quantitative food recorder, and an automated physical activity-level recorder.

Project PartnerUniversity funded projectPeriod: Jan. 2010 to Feb. 2012Partners: Sigrid Beer-Borst, Stefan Siegenthaler, Andrea Mahlen-

stein, Barbara Suter, Antoinette Conca, Judith Pomme-renke, Bruno Bucher, Dr. Michael Kaschewsky, BFH-WGS

Project Team at HuCELukas Kohler, Damien Weber, Marcel Jacomet




Research Group HuCE – microLabEsophageal ECG Recorder

Project DescriptionCardiac arrhythmias are often asymptomatic and can therefore ea-sily be missed although they ultimately may cause cardioembolic stroke or sudden death. To detect such arrhythmias, cardiologists need a long-term capturing device for ECG signals.

In the project we develop a complete recording system that mea-sures ECG signals from inside of the esophagus close to the heart. As compared to existing Holter devices, our ECG recording system is able to capture long-term signals in a much higher quality.

We develop an E2Corder system consisting of a catheter with multiple electrode sensors and a miniaturized, long-term ECG capturing electronics, housing inside a catheter. We investigate in novel ECG signal-types that result from our esophageal recor-ding, and we research on their clinical interpretability as well as on their signal compressibility with maximum medical signal integrity. With the acquired specific knowledge on esophageal ECG

signals, we thus do research on low-power ASIC circuitry design for signal capturing, conversion and compression in one single step to achieve minimal power consumption and thus minimal overall volume requirements.

A first very important project challenge originates from the highly limited physical space available for the electronics in the sensor-catheter. These limitations ask for new sub-Nyquist signal captu-ring and low-power compression methods to drastically reduce the required memory size and battery volume. Due the long-term ECG capturing, a second very important project challenge is the research for highly reliable signal morphology classification algorithms simply due the very large date sets to be automatically analysed.

Project PartnersThe project was initially funded by CTI 10717.2 PFNM-NM and is now continuously sponsored by various research sources.Period: Jan. 2010 to Dec. 2016Partners: Prof. Dr. Dr. med. Rolf Vogel, Dr. med. Andreas Haeberlin

(University Hospital Bern)

Project Team at HuCELukas Bösch, Sandro Burn, Andreas Habegger, Thomas Fejes, Thanks Marisa, David Metzger, Thomas Niederhauser, Michael Nydegger, Caspar Trittibach, Reto Wildhaber and Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet as well as former staff and numerous master students




Research Group HuCE – BME LabFast Data Processing for Multi-Electrode-Arrays

Abstract of the ProjectMulti Electrode Arrays (MEAs) provide a powerful interface to obtain an integrative understanding of the physiology and patho-physiology of excitable cells and are likely to find applications in drug screening studies. The computational needs to acquire and process the data over extended periods of time are huge and surpass the capabilities of commercially available conventional computer techniques. The development of dedicated hardware algorithms running in real-time on a FPGA to isolate biological signals, extract important parameters and discard the irrelevant parts of the data, solved this problem.

State of the ArtWith current software solutions, the evaluation of an experiment recorded with a 64 channel MEA takes from hours up to days. Results of an experiment are not available before the evaluation process of the recorded data is completed. While performing an experiment with MEAs, researchers have no information on the actual state of their tissue under investigation (e.g. the activity of the cells). Thus, they are not able to react on special events or conditions. Each experiment is therefore very time consuming and for drug screening application not suitable. The acquisition and analysis process has to be optimized to enable researchers to perform their experiments in a pleasant end more efficient way.

Novel ApproachElectrophysiological signals measured using a MEA have long periods (between two occurring action potentials) that are not of interest when studying cell activation and excitation propagation and therefore dispensable (see figure).Dedicated and solid hardware algorithms to detect action poten-tials, isolate biological signals, extract parameters of interest and discard the rest of the data were developed in this project.

The algorithm runs for multiple channels (all the 64 electrodes) in parallel and was implemented using a semi-pipelined approach on a FPGA to meet the real time demand of the researchers. Such a dedicated system outperforms any software solution.

ResultsThe new acquisition process has big advantages compared to the existing situation. Due to the fact that the signals are evaluated directly on a hard-ware level, the amount of data transmitted to the computer could be reduced to at least 90%.

Through on-line extraction of physiological parameters a real-time visualization has become possible. Therewith, researchers can implement different feedback loops which open the door to a wide range of novel, unprecedented experiments.

ConclusionsThe newly developed system not only facilitates the MEA experi-ments, but also allows the acquisition and analysis of the signals is in real-time. Existing experiments can be performed faster and cheaper. Fur-thermore can the system now be used not only for basic physio-logical experiments, but also for drug screening.Novel MEAs tend to have a higher amount of electrodes as well as a higher spatial resolution. The implementation of the high speed detection and extraction algorithms on a FPGA, allows an easy scalability to handle MEAs with several times more electrodes. Sole limit is the data transfer capacity towards the computer.

Project PartnerProf. Dr. Stephan Rohr, Institute of Physiology, University of Bern

Project Team at HuCEChristian Dellenbach, Jonas Reber, Volker M. Koch

AwardThe project was awarded the 2010 Burgdorfer Innovation Award.

ContactProf. Dr. Volker M. Koch Deputy Director, MSc Biomechanical Engineering+41 32 321 63 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – BME LabDevelopment of Intra-Vaginal Sensors to Measure Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity

Project DescriptionNumerous women suffer from pelvic floor disorder, which can generate, amongst other, stress urinary incontinence (SUI) [Morin, 2004]. SUI, defined as the complaint of involuntary urine leakage on effort or exertion, or on sneezing or coughing, is particularly prevalent [Hampel, 2004]. Several theories have attempted to explain female urinary continence mechanisms emphasizing the importance of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) in urethral closure for maintaining continence [Morin, 2004]. Nevertheless, several studies mentioned the lack of suitable instrumentation to assess PFM activity. This project aims at providing a better understand-ing of the mechanisms of PFM contraction by developing two vaginal sensors measuring the active and passive PFM tone.

The sensor measuring the active PFM tone will assess several parameters such as static and dynamic PFM strength in the trans-verse plane, an electromyogram, and the position and orientation changes of the probe. The sensor measuring the passive PFM tone will assess static and dynamic PFM strength in the transverse plane, an electromyogram, and distance.

A first prototype measuring the active PFM tone based on force sensing resistors (FSR) has been developed. After performing different tests, it turned out that FSR were only appropriate for qualitative measurements and not for quantitative measurements. A second prototype based on strain gauges is currently under development. Also a prototype measuring the passive PFM tone is under development.

Our efforts have been concentrated on force measurements since it turned out to be the most difficult task. Strain gauge technology seems to be an appropriate approach to measure PFM strength and will be used for both probes. The two intra-vaginal sensor pro-totypes that are under development for measuring active and pas-sive PFM tone have shown good potential to assess PFM activity.

ReferencesM. Morin et al, Neurology and Urodynamics, 23:668-674, 2004.C. Hampel et al, European Urology, 46:15-25, 2004.

Project PartnerBern University of Applied Sciences, Health SectionUniversity Hospital Bern

Project Team at HuCEDamien Maurer, Volker Koch

ContactProf. Dr. Volker KochDeputy Director, MSc Biomedical Engineering+41 32 321 63 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – BME LabDetermination of the Transit Time through the Intestine of Cows with Cecum Dilatation-DislocationProject DescriptionCecal dilatation-dislocation (CDD) is a common and economically important abdominal disorder that affects mainly dairy cows. Affected animals show a reduced appetite, milk drop, colic and diminished or even lack of defecation due to constipation of the cecum with ingesta. Despite several studies, the pathogenesis of CDD little is known so far. Results from previous studies suggest that the cause of CDD is not in the cecum itself but can be in a more distal part of the colon.

In the planned study, the transit time between different sections of intestine (ileum, cecum, colon and rectum) in cows after CDD is to be measured. By comparing the intestinal transit times of various sections to the rectum in different animal groups, the area where the dysfunction, leading to CDD, occurs can be localized.

ResultsTo determine the above mentioned transit times, a small, implant-able capsule with built-in temperature sensor and wireless data trans-mitter was developed. The principle is based on the fact that the measured temperature will drop abruptly at the moment where the capsule leaves the intestine of the cow (drop from the body temperature of the cow (38.5-39.0°C) to ambient tempera-ture).

The data packets sent from the capsules are captured by a receiv-er in close proximity of the cow.

Design parameters of the capsule: • Size: 22x8.6mm• Power supply: 2x1.55 silver oxide cells • Meas. period: 3s• Battery lifetime: 15d• Range:10m

Project PartnerWiederkäuerklinik der Vetsuisse Fakultät BernProf. Dr. med. vet. Mireille Meylanmed. vet. David Devaux

Project Team at HuCEMarkus Lempen, Volker M. Koch

ContactProf. Dr. Volker M. Koch Deputy Director, MSc Biomedical Engineering+41 32 321 63 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – optoLabMonitoring of Teeth Erosion in Early StageProject DescriptionThe main goal of the project was to develop an optical system allowing the detection of the teeth erosion progress in the early stage, i.e. before the irreversible loss of enamel takes place. A set-up was designed to measure on a small spot the spectral resolved reflectivity of the tooth with different angle of illumination.

The project explores the relation between the loss of diffuse and direct reflectivity in function of the wavelength and the state of erosion of the teeth.

Numerous measurements on «in vitro» teeth were done in collaboration with the Zahnklinik, Inselspital in Bern. The results show a correlation between loss of reflectivity of the teeth and the beginning of the erosion process. These results were corroborated by chemical analysis. Particularly the loss of gloss of the teeth shows a high sensitivity and good reproducibility in early stage of erosion.

The optical analysis of teeth reflectivity represents a new and non-destructive investigation method for erosion in dentistry. The actual setup is the basis for a further simplified device for teeth erosion analysis in laboratory.

Project PartnerZahnklinik, Inselspital Bern

Project Team at HuCEChristoph Höschele, Anke Bossen, Christoph Meier

ContactAnke BossenLecturer+41 32 321 67 [email protected]

Christoph Meier Professor for Optics+41 32 321 64 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – BME LabNovel Physiological Robot Reactor System (PRRS)

Project DescriptionThe PRRS is a near-physiological robot reactor system for engi-neering articular cartilaginous tissue-scaffold constructs. A me-chanical stimulation unit will be able to apply loads and pressures in the same order of magnitude as in human joints and an ambient control unit will allow carrying out all work in an environment encountered in articular joints.Highly complex motion patterns, e.g. of the knee-joint, can be closely simulated by individual control of each of the axis of a 4-dof-robot. Highly accurate force-feedback and motion systems are controlled by ultra-fast FPGA and real-time components which continuously monitor all system-parameters. Sample containers will be placed on a carrousel, which allows for individual piloting of the containers with their own stimulation pattern. These com-ponents are integrated in a sterile surrounding in which humidity, temperature, gas-mixture (O2, CO2), and pressure are actively controlled.The robot reactor system will be designed as a screening tool for investigating cell-material interactions in a near-physiological environment in vitro, so that finally only a very limited number of in vivo experiments will be required for advancing cartilage repair.

ResultsThe complex physiological motion and load pattern of a knee joint were closely traced by the precisely controlled robot axes. A large range of loading forces between less than 1 N and more then 300 N in longitudinal and 100 N in lateral direction were achieved, closely matching the physiological forces encountered in the knee. The motion controls provide a position accuracy of about 10 mm. Within the PRRS, the climate is accurately controlled and main-tained (deviations of less than 0.2% and 0.2°C from given gas concentrations and temperature, respectively).

Project PartnerExternally funded project: RMS Foundation, Bettlach

Project Team at HuCEVeit Schmid, Rahel Rotach, Yves Mussard, Jörn Justiz

ContactDr. Jörn JustizProfessor for Medical Engineering and Physics +41 32 321 62 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – cpvrLabMOTility ASsessment SOftware

Project DescriptionA team of researchers at the Institute of Diagnostic, Interventional and Pediatric Radiology at the University Hospital of Bern devel-oped an MR sequence that could monitor the motion of the bowel wall. MR analysis of motility is a new technique to identify and localize functional pathologies of the small bowel that may help to diagnose abdominal pathologies and the impact of medication to the bowel peristalsis.

This assessment of the bowel motility can be supported using the MOTASSO software, which does a semiautomatic measurement in a reproducible and standardized way. Assessment time can be significantly decreased whereas accuracy can be significantly increased by its use.

With funding from the federal innovation promotion agency ICT (project Nr. 9655.2) a software prototype could be developed in collaboration with the SOHARD AG as business partner.

MOTASSO V.1.0 is a software that helps the radiologist to assess, easily measure and quantify bowel motility. There are already existing cardiac software solutions but there is none for the motility measurements. The software is able to do a precise and stable measurement of bowel peristalsis based on dedicated MR sequences.

KeywordsImage processing, DICOM, user interaction, motility measurement, MRI, tracking

Project PartnerThe project was funded by CTI 11339.1 PFLS-LSPeriod: Aug. 2010 to Aug. 2011Partner: Inselspital, BernSOHARD AG, Bern

Project Team at HuCEStephan Raible, Roger Cattin


Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information Technology Höheweg 80CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – cpvrLab3D OCT Denoising

Project DescriptionIn Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) speckle noise is a mas-sive distortion for both visual quality and computational segmen-tation. The goal of this project is to develop an efficient speckle noise reduction algorithm to achieve a denoising of 3D OCT volumina and to improve a subsequent segmentation process.

In a first part of the project speckle noise needs to be analyzed in its origin and characteristics. As a result, a statistical model of speckle noise in Optical Coherence Tomography will be developed. This model will be used for generating synthetic speckle noise as a basis for subsequent denoising measurements. On the other hand the statistical findings will be used to enhance existing denoising and segmentation algorithms in the context of speckle noise.Inspired by film grain removal methods new unconventional filtering algorithms should be considered within this project. The main advantage of such methods lies in the consideration of temporal data which can be replaced by the 3rd dimension in OCT volumina.

At the current stage a powerful filtering framework is under devel-opment which allows a drastic improvement of the image quality of OCT volumina by keeping or even enhancing all important details and structures at the same time. The filtered data shows improved results in segmentation as well.

KeywordsImage processing, OCT, denoising, segmentation, 3D filtering, visualization

Project PartnerPeriod: Sept. 2010 to July 2011Partner: Dr. med. Peter Maloca, Center for Medical Physics

and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University Vienna

Project Team at HuCECyrill Gyger, Roger Cattin




Research Group HuCE – microLabFramework for Low Cost & High Speed OCT Hardware Algorithms

Project DescriptionOptical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an interferometric optical signal acquisition and processing method used in applications that need micrometer resolutions in 3D images of optical scatter-ing media. OCT can be used in various applications, such as art conservation or diagnostic medicine (ophthalmology). Frequen-cy-domain OCT provides advantages in signal-to-noise ratio, but needs high computation power. With our new hardware algorithm parallelization technique, we achieve high-processing speed for OCT signal post-processing, resulting in real-time volumetric images.

Development PlatformThe goal of this project is to research in hardware parallelization techniques applied to frequency domain OCT algorithms for very high-processing speed on low cost FPGA fabrics. A crucial step in designing high-speed hardware algorithms is a tight link between the high-level algorithm design environment and the target hard-ware. With our in-house OCT development framework we can eas-ily switch between various algorithm sub-blocs in floating-point to hardware emulations or implementations in fixed-point number representations. Algorithm development and verification can now be done in one framework.The GECKO4 platform housing the OCT hardware algorithms features a credit card size form factor. In a first application, our credit-card size OCT post-processing hardware is directly mounted on the back of a state-of-the-art OCT line camera (AViiVA EM4 CL2014 OCT), which features 70’000 A-scans per second at 2048 12 bit pixels per scan. Our OCT hardware algorithms post-process-es the incoming data at a rate of more than 200 MB/s in real-time.

With this high processing power, we get B-scans of 2048 x 1024 pixels in 15 ms, or C-scan voxels of 2048 x 512 x 512 in 3.7 sec. Note that we do not need any additional OCT post-processing on a host computer. The speed is currently only limited by the maxi-mal line rate of the used OCT camera. The fully processed date is uploaded to a host for visualization by a USB 3.0 interface IP, thus not needing additional costly frame grabbers.

Project Team at HuCEThe project is an internally funded R&D project by HuCE-micro-Lab.Period: September 09 to December 2013Team: Pascal Kesselring, Reto Pablo Meier, Caspar Trittibach,

Vinzenz Bandi, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet

ContactDr. Marcel JacometProfessor for Microelectronics+41 32 321 62 41 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied Sciences Engineering and Information Technology Institute for Human Centered Engineering Quellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – optoLab & microLabMiniaturized Swept Source OCT

Project DescriptionThe project goal is to develop a complete optical coherence tomography (OCT) system, based on the newest generation of rapid swept sources from Exalos AG. Data processing algorithms are implemented in hardware to provide fully processed images in real time. This OCT engine finds applications in ophthalmology, in dentistry, in general medical diagnostics, and in quality assess-ment in industrial production.

Our tiny OCT engine consists of the miniaturized swept source, the interferometer, the delivering optics, the detection electron-ics, and the signal processing unit. We implement the computa-tion-power intensive signal processing for the frequency-domain OCT as a real-time hardware algorithm on an FPGA. The OCT engine achieves an overall and steady A-scan rate of 110 kS/s at 2048 pixels/A-scan.

The scientific objectives include the realization of a novel optical measuring principle to achieve equidistant sampling in frequen-cy space and the implementation of an algorithm to handle the system-inherent mirror ambiguity. Moreover, we research in highly parallel and thus high-speed OCT hardware-algorithm design for pre- and post-processing of A/B-scans in real time; we also investi-gate on novel data compression methods to solve the problem of the huge data-transfer rate to standard PC interfaces.

As a preliminary result the figure above shows a first realization of a fiber-based interferometer with the balanced detector and the reference arm. The system features a maximum sensitivity of 110 dB and a fall-off of 7 dB over a measurement range of 8 mm.

Another device developed in relation to the swept-source OCT engine is a balanced detector-unit for a 1050 nm-centered or a 1300 nm-centered laser. The detector offers a band-width of 450 MHz fringe frequency with an average gain 4.5 kV/W. With this device we obtain DC-free interference signals for further signal processing.

Project PartnerThe project was funded by CTI 11668.1 PFNM-NMPeriod: September 2010 to January 2012Partners: Dr. Adrian Bachmann, Dr. Philipp Vorreau, Stefan Gloor,

Dr. Nicolai Matuschek, Tim Von Niderhäuser, Dr. Marcus Duelk, Exalos AG, Zürich

Project Team at HuCEAlexander Holzer, Dominic Ernst, Vinzenz Bandi, Josef Goette,Marcel Jacomet, Christoph Meier.


Dr. Marcel JacometProfessor for Microelectronics+41 33 321 62 [email protected]

Bern University of Applied SciencesEngineering and Information TechnologyInstitute for Human Centered EngineeringQuellgasse 21CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)

‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCEhuce.bfh.ch/optolab

huce.bfh.ch/microlab

Research Group HuCE – cpvrLabViVe – Automatic Video Analysis of Traffic Patterns Using Different Recording Techniques

Project DescriptionThe industrial partners Verkehrsteiner AG and Ingenieurbüro Ghielmetti are specialized in the analysis of video recordings for transport planning. This analysis includes counting and catego-rizing different traffic participants like pedestrians, bicycles, cars, and trucks. These evaluations will be used to report e.g. uncom-mon traffic volumes, danger potentials or the like to authorities. So far, the evaluation of the video recordings was carried out manually.

ViVe aims to automate the manual work by automatically recog-nize, categorize and count the traffic participants. The recognition of those different traffic participants is a difficult task in image processing and causes problems such as clustering and occlusion. To overcome these difficulties, different recording techniques were combined such as normal video recordings, thermal imaging shots and stereo recordings.

The feasibility study showed that in particular pedestrians and cyclists are better recognizable on thermal images and stereo recordings give a better sense of depth which helps to overcome occlusions.

KeywordsImage processing, traffic analysis, thermal imaging, stereo imaging

Project PartnerVerkehrsteiner AG, BernIngenieurbüro Ghielmetti, Winterthur

Project Team at HuCEReto Witschi, Roger Cattin




Research Group HuCE – cpvrLabHORUS – Volume Visualization

Project DescriptionThe ever faster innovation cycles in the field of medical technolo-gy of new imaging techniques, open up increasing opportunities for medical applications.

In the domain of tomography, be it Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron-Emission Tomogra-phy (PET) or Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), the develop-ment of new visualization tools barely catches up with the pace of innovation of imaging modalities. Modern tomography devices not only deliver simple slice images but also volumetric data of the anatomical and functional properties of human tissue. The advent of extremely fast and cheap consumer hardware (CPUs, GPUs) allows near real-time handling of large medical data sets.

Our application accomplishes the rendering of such data sets by using Volume Ray Casting algorithms that assign colors and opac-ity to the different density values of the tissue encountered during volume ray traversal. The result is a 3D model of the analyzed anatomical region. The model can be freely rotated in space and thus viewed from all possible angles. It is also possible to produce a stereoscopic projection of the model. Stereoscopic projection renders images at different angles for the right and the left eye of the viewer in order to evoke depth perception.

KeywordsComputer Graphics, picture/image generation, viewing algorithms – 3D graphics and realism, virtual reality

Project PartnerUniversity Clinic for Nuclear Medicine, Inselspital Bern

Project Team at HuCEStefan Egli, Peter von Niederhäusern,Roger Cattin, Urs Künzler

Award«Audience award»Burgdorfer Innovationspreis 2009

ContactUrs KünzlerProfessor for Virtual Reality+41 32 321 63 [email protected]

Bern University for Applied SciencesEngineering and Information TechnologyInstitute for Human Centered EngineeringHöheweg 80CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – cpvrLabHOVISSE

Project DescriptionHOVISSE (Haptic Osteosynthesis Virtual Intra-operative Surgery Support Environment) is a medical virtual reality research project aimed at developing a framework of software applications that provide a seamless digital support environment for osteosynthesis in trauma care. It offers continuous assistance from the preopera-tive planning phase to the intra-operative surgery phase.

The main research topics are:• Immersive 3D stereoscopic and haptic osteosynthesis planning

work environment and advanced multimodal visual-haptic man-machine interaction techniques for realistic osteosynthesis simulation

• FEA simulation for optimized fracture suitable implant selection and location planning

• Generalized 3D statistical bone model for mapping shape, den-sity distribution and orientation to novel bone data as well as prediction of missing parts

• Simulation and optimization of intra-operative surgery work-flows within a CAVE environment

• Framework for unified display and access to 2D/3D pre- and intra-operative information (data and images)

KeywordsVirtual reality, medical information systems, real-time simulation

Project Partner• University Hospitals of Basel and Zurich (CARCAS Switzerland

Research Group)• University of Basel, Computer Science Department• Fraunhofer IPA (Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineer-

ing and Automation, Stuttgart, Germany)

Project Team at HuCEUrs Künzler, Beatrice Amrhein, Jürgen Eckerle, Stephan Fischli, Robert Hauck and Reto Witschi

ContactUrs KünzlerProfessor for Virtual Reality+41 32 321 63 [email protected]

Bern University for Applied SciencesEngineering and Information TechnologyInstitute for Human Centered EngineeringHöheweg 80CH-2501 Biel/Bienne (Switzerland)


Research Group HuCE – optoLabSeeing Surgical Laser

Project DescriptionAs part of an eye laser design, HuCE - optoLab developed a spec-trometer-based OCT system to visualize the cornea and ocular lens. OCT system requirements included optical and mechanical design, alignment and calibration of system components, as well as complete signal processing. On the basis of dedicated algo-rithms, triple eye mathematically processed the optical data into optimized visuals through a data pipeline. After integration into the complex architecture of the eye laser, the software functional-ity ranged from data acquisition to GUI. Computer scientists, who are specialized in physics and mathematics, collaborated with researchers at eye level for this project.

Project PartnerThe partnership between HuCE - optoLab and triple eye offers clients a comprehensive solution for smooth OCT integration in products. An excellent collaboration between high tech research and cutting-edge software engineering translates into a fast proj-ect implementation for clients.

triple eye GmbH www.tripleeye.ch is a software company special-izing in medical software. The company is in compliance with ISO 62304, and takes a test-driven development approach as part of its risk management solution. A core competence is the efficient processing of OCT data in various computer systems.

Project Team at HuCEMichael Peyer, Stefan Remund, Christoph Meier



‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch/optoLab

Research Group HuCE – microLabDynamic Contour Tonometer Lens

Project DescriptionGlaucoma is an eye disease that is the second most reason for blindness. An elevation of the intraocular pressure (IOP) is the highest risk factor for this disease. The decrease of IOP by med-ication is currently the only possibility to counteract glaucoma progression. Measuring the IOP is therefore crucial. State-of-the-art medical examination uses selective pressure measurements for a few seconds only, which, unfortunately, are insufficient to continuously capture the strongly varying IOPs during day and night (diurnal IOP). Especially these diurnal IOP curves may show IOP peaks and trends (fluctuations), which would hopefully pro-vide a better indication.Goal of the present research project is to develop of a diurnal pressure measuring system and thus to help to improve glaucoma therapy. Our pressure measuring system will be the first to mea-sure and capture in absolute values the IOP continuously during several hours or days.Our industrial partner has successfully filed a patent for IOP measuring based on dedicated contact lenses to allow for long term measuring periods. Based on this patent, the complete IOP measuring system is to be developed in this project. It is com-posed of the dedicated lens with integrated pressure sensor and an external low power data logger, controlling the electronics in the lens and compensating the pressure measurements to get the desired absolute values in sufficiently high precision. First experiments have shown that given a minimal sensor sampling rate, even the heart rate can be found from the IOP measurements by our system.

Project PartnerThe project was funded by CTI 14076.1.Period: May 2012 to August 2013.Partners: Markus Dachs, Dr. Sony Spichtig, Dr. Hartmund Kanngiesser, Ziemer Opthalmic Systems AG, Port Daniela Nosch, Gogniat Fabrice, Prof. Dr. Roland Joss, FHNW

Project Team at HuCEDamian Weber, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet




Research Group HuCE – microLabArc Fault Detection in PV Systems

Project DescriptionArc faults in PV Systems can cause great damage in the system itself or the close surrounding. The project goal is to develop an algorithm that detects such an arc fault with a high reliability. The algorithm must be implemented as simple as possible in con-sideration of computational needs, due to an implementation in existing inverters. The final product has to communicate with the inverter for capturing counter measures in case of detection. In collaboration with the Photovoltaic Laboratory in Burgdorf we cre-ated a database of several hundred measurements of synthetic arc faults in different situations. The database contains a rich variety of different measured and calculated signal properties. Properties are for instance variation of noise or spectral properties and its variations to name just a few. Based on the analyzed data, an algo-rithm has been developed that enables the detection of arc faults and avoids faulty activations of i.e. switching operations.Due to the designed fuzzy logic structure, the algorithm’s behav-ior can be improved on the run by changing or adding new rules. Finally, the algorithm will be implemented into an autonomous system in collaboration with the research group IMC - Embed-ded-Systems. As result of our research we present a rich database for profiling and the algorithm’s implementation for an existing PV system. The implementation provides us with further in field tests.

KeywordsAlgorithms, microelectronics, photovoltaic, database.

Project PartnersCTI funded project, Sputnik Engineering AG, BielPhotovoltaic Laboratory (pvtest.ch), Institute of Mobile Communi-cations (IMC), Bern University of Applied Sciences, BurgdorfIMC - Embedded Systems Research Group (imc.bfh.ch), Institute of Mobile Communications (IMC), Bern University of Applied Sciences, Burgdorf

Project Team at HuCEBenjamin Grichting, Josef Goette, Marcel Jacomet




Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCECollaboration Models

We combine new technologies and our know-how we have acquired in previ-ous research projects in an interdisciplinary way to develop new products for industry and hospitals.

Offer to SMEThe collaboration with industry, specifically with small and medium enterprises (SME) as well as hospitals, is a strategic goal of the Institute for Human Centered Engineering (HuCE). It allows SME to profit from our R&D resources and from our broad know-how in various disciplines to develop competitive products and bring them to market. We have acquired long-term experiences in executing challenging industrial projects.

Jump-Start CollaborationProject-based collaboration is the most common form of collab-oration between SME and the HuCE. To be an attractive partner to industry, we are proud on our jump-start collaboration model, which allows us to start very quickly with industrial projects. These quick starts are only possible because we handle internal projects with a lower time priority than industrial mandates, re-sulting in staff-engineer reallocation to industrial projects normal-ly within 1 week. As soon as an industrial mandate is approved by the partner company, manpower resources are definitely allocated to said industrial project and stays there until the completion of the project.

Collaboration Model «flex»Project-based collaboration is planned on a time- and not on a fixed-budget basis. Milestones and deliverables are commonly planned and regularly controlled by the partners. If after a starting period of three months, planning and reality diverge more than 20%, the SME partners have the right to immediately stop the collaboration within 2 weeks, with no additional expenses. This «flex» collaboration model is the most economic way1 to execute industrial projects, and it is also the easiest way for the SME part-ner to change, to cancel, or to add tasks on ongoing R&D projects. In addition, our flexible collaboration is the basis to execute proj-ects as true partners in a common team by allocating engineers from the SME and from the HuCE to the project team. Technology- and know-how transfer in both directions is an intended conse-quence of this collaboration model.Collaboration Model «open»With the collaboration model «open», the industry can outsource

design projects with the option for project extension by guaran-teed access to predefined HuCE-staff engineers. In this model, the contract only includes an average part-time percentage per year to execute the actual project. If the project or outsourcing volume is suddenly extended, we guarantee in this model an immediate increase (up to a doubling) of the basic part-time percentage with the predefined staff engineers.

RatesOur hourly rates are very competitive as we take into account that our engineers educate themselves during the industrial project; this advanced training is one of the prime objectives of the University of Applied Sciences. Please contact us directly for the actual rates.



‣ Institute for Human Centered Engineering HuCE huce.bfh.ch

1 We need not to allocate and charge hidden time buffers to the project offer to cope with the uncertainties in project-time estimations.

Research Group HuCE – BME LabVoiSee® – A Portable Electronic Vision Aid for Larger Pictures and Better Contrast, in Particular for Patients with Macular Degeneration

Project DescriptionAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most frequent cause of visual impairment in developed countries, marked by the degeneration of photoreceptors in the macular region of the retina leading to opacities, distortions, total visual field failures in the center of the visual field and may even result in blindness.As currently there is no cure for AMD, the only effective aids are magnifying devices. Surprisingly, few portable ones exist. These are characterized by either a reduced field of view (yielding, e.g., to a limited number of magnified letters) or by large proportions and heavy weights so that they can hardly be carried around.Hence, we developed a prototype of a novel electronic vision aid, VoiSee®, that yields • a 3.2"-display with specially designed monocular optics yielding

a field of view of about 68°• a user-adjustable magnification of more than factor 10• a 138 mm by 93 mm by 57 mm small portable casing• a total weight of only 280 g• real-time image processing including patient specific con-

trast-enhancement, pseudo-color and additional digital magnifi-cation

The patient feedback to our VoiSee® prototype was overwhelm-ingly positive. Therefore, we are confident that this device will substantially disburden AMD patients in their everyday lives.We currently work on further reducing the size and optimizing the ergonomics of the prototype. Our industrial partner is optimistic that a first small series will be produced this year while the deliv-ery is planned for 2016.

Project PartnerReber Informatik + Engineering GmbH,Münsingen, Switzerland

Project Team at HuCEManuel Mosimann, Volker Koch, Jörn Justiz

ContactDr. Jörn JustizProfessor for Medical Engineering and Physics+41 32 321 62 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – BME LabWiseSkin for tactile prosthetics

Project DescriptionAmputation of a hand or limb is a catastrophic event resulting in significant disability with major consequences for amputees in terms of daily activities and quality of life. Although function-al myoelectric prostheses are available today, due to a lack of sensory function in the prostheses, there is not yet a solution for restoration of a natural sense of touch for persons using prosthet-ic limbs.

The goal of the WiseSkin project is to develop a tactile prosthesis that allows an amputee to feel pressure (in the future also - shear and temperature). This may significantly improve the quality of life for amputees. WiseSkin is a project sponsored by NanoTera and SNSF, which involves three main partners: CSEM, EPFL and BFH. The concept of WiseSkin is based on embedding miniature, soft-MEMS tactility sensors into a silicone based “skin”. It employs scalable, event-driven ultra-low-power wireless communication to convey the sensor data to the actuation control module enabling the sensors to be placed almost anywhere. A novel, stretchablesubsystem for powering the device also serves as a waveguide for the wireless communication. Sensory feedback is based on the phantom mapping principle which is leveraged to provide natural sensation of touch by appropriate points on the amputee's residu-al limb using a tactile display.

At BFH, the work involves investigating sensory feedback, system design, final integration and developing a functional prototype. For the sensory feedback system, we aim for a non-invasive sen-sory substitution system, i.e., we apply feedback to the superficial skin via a different modality or to a different location of the body. The most commonly used sensory substitution feedbacks are:

electrotactile, vibrotactile and mechanotactile as well as hybrid systems. The first approach is vibrotactile due to its small size, low power consumption and universal psychological acceptance. A testing system is being built up, involving an actuator array, the drivers for actuators and a microcontroller for generating signals to control stimulation patterns. The challenge is to find a suitable way to code the signal.

For the system design and final integration, one of the challenges is to develop a sensor fusion algorithm. Due to the limited space in the remaining stump, one-to-one mapping is not possible. Advanced signal processing allowing sensor data fusion is needed to convey precise information collected by the sensors to the actuators. Another challenge is to coordinate and integrate the whole system where the sub-systems have different data formats and power supply systems.

Project PartnerCSEMEPFL

Project Team at HuCEVolker M. Koch, Jörn JustizHuaiqi Huang, Martin Grambone, Ozan Ünsal

ContactProf. Dr. Volker M. KochDirector, Master's Programs DivisionDeputy Director, MSc Biomedical Engineering+41 32 321 63 [email protected]



CSEMBFH

EPFL

EPFL

Research Group HuCE – optoLabCharacterization of choroidal change in children and its temporal response to optical defocus

Project DescriptionMyopia nowadays is found in an increasing number of young patients and is characterized by an imbalance of the eyes growth control mechanisms causing shrinkage of the choroidal layer. In cooperation with Chinese partner universities the project (SNF 320030_146021) develops a multi-light source ophthalmic optical coherence tomography and eye-tracking confocal laser scanner system. The device enables high resolution imaging with high contrast, even at the deeper ophthalmic layers. A cohort of young subjects is being monitored at micrometer resolution while they are presented with optical stimuli that can influence the axial eye growth of the retina, choroid and sclera. The goal is to precisely and positively influence the eye shape and suppress or even reverse the progress of myopia before the eye becomes inalterably deformed.

Project PartnerARTORG CENTERBiomedical Engineering Research

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)

Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center (ZOC) Sun Yatsen University

Financial Supports

Project Team at HuCEMarkus Stoller, Tiziano Ronchetti, Michael Peyer, Boris Považay

ContactDr. Boris Považay+41 32 321 64 [email protected]



Research Group HuCE – microLabHeart surgery through a key hole – heart valve repair of the future

Project DescriptionMitral valve regurgitation (mitral insufficiency) is a condition in which malfunctioning of the mitral valve allows backflow of blood into the left atrium, which eventually results in heart failure (see figure below).

Mitral insufficiency is the most common form of valvular heart disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic and the American Heart Association, mitral valve regurgitation occurs in about 2% of the world’s population. Every year about 250’000 patients are diag-nosed with it worldwide. Approximately 160’000 people suffer from this disease in Switzerland.

The current gold standard therapy for mitral valve regurgitation is surgical repair. While the surgical treatment of mitral valve mal-functioning results in excellent outcome, the procedure is delicate and thus requires exquisite surgical skills and experience as the surgeon needs direct access to the valve.

In this project we are developing various instruments allowing surgeons to perform the surgery in a minimally invasive way. Due to its complexity this is a challenging task that requires a multi-disciplinary approach combining different specialists to reach an optimal result.

The project started with funding from the Swiss Federal Com-mission for Technology and Innovation (CTI). It combines teams and talents with different backgrounds and disciplines, such as academia and clinical science, as well as industry. Collaboration includes the Berne University of Applied Sciences, specifically the Institute of Human Centered Engineering (HuCE-microLab), the Cardiovascular Engineering group of the ARTORG Center for Bio-medical Engineering Research of the University of Berne, various clinical and medical advisors and specialists at the Inselspital, the Berne University Hospital, and other hospitals, and experts for medical devices from the industry partner CoreMedic AG.

The exceptional interactions and networking possibilities between the surgical, engineering and scientific disciplines involved in this collaboration allow testing and evaluation of the products by the intended users with continuous and direct feedback.

Project PartnerCoreMedic AG

Project Team at HuCETobias Aeschlimann, Oliver Wüthrich, Thomas Bauer, Josef Götte




http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2012/02/08/

mitral-regurgitaiton-progession-craig-smith

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