Student’s virtual reality program featured on News Center Maine
News Center Maine reported on a program designed by a University of Maine student that shows how muscles are firing in real time. Kinotech uses existing virtual reality devices to identify movement and then shows the user which specific muscles are being used during that movement, according to the report. The purpose is to identify the areas of potential and in some cases identify possible injury-prone areas. UMaine senior Justin Hafner and his partners worked together to combine his knowledge of kinesiology with technology, News Center Maine reported. “It’s doing cool things that matter,” Hafner said. “This is something that’s really cool. I can make a huge difference in multiple fields.” The program has gained the attention of the Department of Defense, according to Hafner, who said he is waiting for official funding to further develop the program to help the department identify the potential for injury among troops. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the education I received here [at UMaine]. I want other students to have this opportunity,” he said.