ARGAMAN: Rapid Deployment Virtual Reality System for PTSD Rehabilitation
Ehud Dayan · 2006
The Argaman Virtual Reality Software Suite is an innovative, unique solution providing an immersive virtual reality therapeutic system for treatment of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) in people who witnessed or suffered terror attacks or other traumatic experiences. The flexible design of the tool enables custom reconstruction of the scenery as well as specific events for each patient. The complete treatment system projects the therapist into the virtual scene, thus highly improving the overall impact of the treatment. The system editor rapidly simulates in 3D the audio-visual environment where the trauma occurred and provides life-like avatars that imitate people in that vicinity. When using the system, the patient can gradually process the experience with the help of a professional therapist, construct new memories of alternative scenarios, and deal with previously suppressed emotions and cognitions. A central and unique feature of the system is its ability to insert, in real-time, the therapist or other players into the virtual scene, by digitally processing a live video stream according to the blue-screen technique. This process ensures that the concept of personal care in therapy is extended into the virtual world.