Un marco de trabajo de realidad virtual para crear entornos para estudios relacionados con la nutrición

Abstract

Despite advances in the application of Virtual Reality (VR) in health, there is a lack of specific frameworks for nutritional interventions. This degree work presents NutriVR Framework, a VRbased framework intended to support computer engineers in creating applications that enhance such interventions. This solution promotes the development of versatile, domain-independent VR applications, with an emphasis on interaction and personalization of nutritional treatment in virtual environments. The design and development process of the NutriVR Framework combines advanced software engineering techniques, such as the creation of frameworks, the integration of agile development methodologies, and the implementation of systems focused on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). In addition, specific hardware is integrated for VR applications, ensuring an immersive experience in the nutritional context. An approach was adopted that combines User-Centered Design (UCD) and agile methodology SCRUM, adapted through the Software Process Engineering Metamodel (SPEM 2.0). The initial evaluation, conducted through focus groups, highlighted thepreference for 3D images due to their realism, visual appeal and sense of immersion. The final evaluation, conducted with a quasi-experiment of 40 participants, including students and IT professionals, showed positive statistical results on effectiveness, and favorable perceptions of its ease of use, usefulness and intention for future use indicated its high potential for implementation in the development of VR applications in the field of nutrition.