Human Movement and CognitiVE Analysis Group

The research group carries out its activities at the BioLab laboratory and the PolitoBIOMedLab Interdepartmental Center. The group work is primarily focused on the acquisition and processing of multimodal signals for the analysis and improvement of human function, both in terms of motor and cognitive/behavioral aspects, through the recording, analysis, and mathematical modeling of biological signals and the adoption and development of innovative technologies.
Specifically, the main lines of research include:
i. Development of methods and systems for the multi-factorial analysis of human movement in terms of kinematics, dynamics, and muscle electrical activity for the assessment of motor capacity (in laboratory environments) and motor performance (in real-life environments). In this context, the instrumental techniques used range from the use of integrated high-resolution optoelectronic systems to force measurements, to the use of miniaturized wearable sensors and portable electromyographic systems.
ii. Design of analytical approaches and tools for assessing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects based on multimodal monitoring of physiological signals. In this context, measurement procedures include brain signals (electroencephalogram and hemodynamic response), eye tracking, electrodermal activity, cardiac variability, and changes in blood volume in tissues.
iii. Development and validation of mathematical models and signal processing techniques, including algorithms for characterizing neuromuscular control, detecting intervals of muscle activity, optimizing the placement of microelectrodes for neurostimulation, solving inverse problems for source separation and estimating internal parameters from noninvasive measurements, and sensor fusion filters.
iv. Design and implementation of tools to support rehabilitation and enabling interventions aimed at recovering motor and cognitive functions in clinical and home settings. In this area, instrumental techniques include neuromodulation (transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep brain stimulation), the use of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and neurofeedback, closed-loop neurostimulation, as well as the development of exer-gaming solutions and interactive virtual environments.
The research team's expertise allows for targeted responses and advanced services in various application areas, including: Functional assessment, motor performance monitoring, and fall risk in patients with orthopedic, neurological, and neurodegenerative diseases; Ergonomics studies, assessment of work-related stress and reduced cognitive performance associated with emotional overload; Optimization of sports performance, injury prevention, and management; Development of innovative interventions for habilitation and (tele) rehabilitation.