Step frequency guidance method and wearable device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of intelligent wearing device, particularly relates to a step frequency guiding method and a wearing device, wherein the step frequency guiding method is applied to the wearing device, the wearing device comprises a vibration module, the vibration module comprises a plurality of vibration units which are independently arranged and controlled, the step frequency guiding method comprises receiving information to be expressed; generating a vibration instruction set according to the information to be expressed based on a preset vibration rule; and driving one or more vibration units in the vibration module to vibrate according to the vibration instruction set. The main purpose of the present application is to provide a step frequency guiding method, which aims to provide multi-meaning vibration information for users.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of smart wearable device technology, and in particular to a step frequency guidance method and a wearable device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of wearable device technology, more and more wearable devices (such as smart bracelets, smartwatches, and smart wristbands) are being used in sports training scenarios. In running training, cadence is one of the key indicators for measuring running efficiency and preventing sports injuries. Existing wearable devices typically have built-in sensors such as inertial measurement units (IMUs) that can detect the user's cadence in real time and provide speed reminders to the user through vibration. For example, when the user's cadence deviates from the preset target range, the device will vibrate to inform the user that there is a problem with the cadence and it needs to be adjusted.

[0003] However, in related technologies, vibration feedback can only inform the user that "the cadence is incorrect," but it cannot provide information on the difference between the actual cadence and the target cadence. In other words, the user can only perceive that the cadence deviates from the target range, but cannot know whether the current cadence is too fast or too slow.

[0004] To obtain the specific direction and magnitude of deviation, users typically need to rely on other sensory channels: either by receiving voice prompts through headphones or by viewing the screen of the device. With the former, users cannot receive voice prompts without headphones, and speakerphone is easily affected by environmental noise, wind noise during running, etc., leading to unclear information delivery. With the latter, viewing the screen disrupts the user's running rhythm, forcing them to become distracted, which can further disrupt their cadence and alter their original running rhythm. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide a cadence guidance method that uses cadence deviation information to drive the vibration of a vibration unit at a corresponding spatial location, allowing the user to determine the direction of cadence deviation simply by sensing the vibration location through touch, without the need for voice or a screen, thereby achieving cadence guidance without interrupting the running rhythm.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention is applied to a wearable device, the wearable device comprising multiple independently configured and controlled vibration units, each of the vibration units being arranged in a first direction, and the step frequency guidance method comprising: Obtain the user's actual step frequency; Based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency, step frequency deviation vibration information is generated; Based on the step frequency deviation vibration information, the vibration unit at the corresponding position is driven to vibrate.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wearable device includes a first vibration region and a second vibration region, the first vibration region and the second vibration region being arranged along a first direction, and both the first vibration region and the second vibration region having a plurality of vibration units. The step frequency deviation vibration information includes a positive and negative deviation value and an absolute deviation value. The step frequency deviation vibration information is used to drive the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate, which includes: Based on the positive and negative values ​​of the step frequency deviation vibration information, the target vibration region is determined in the first vibration region and the second vibration region; Based on the absolute value of the deviation of the step frequency deviation vibration information, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region; The target vibration unit is driven to vibrate.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining the target vibration unit among a plurality of vibration units in the target vibration region based on the absolute value of the deviation of the step frequency deviation vibration information includes: Based on the vibration information of the step frequency deviation, the absolute value of the deviation is obtained; Calculate the ratio of the absolute value of the deviation to the actual deviation of the target step frequency; Based on the actual deviation ratio, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining the target vibration unit among a plurality of vibration units in the target vibration region based on the actual deviation ratio includes: Based on multiple different preset deviation ranges, the position of each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region is encoded. Based on the actual deviation ratio and the preset deviation range, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of encoding the position of each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region based on multiple different preset deviation ranges includes: Based on the direction from the end of each vibration region away from another vibration region to the end closer to another vibration region, the vibration units in the first vibration region and the second vibration region are positionally encoded in descending order of the preset deviation range.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of driving the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate according to the step frequency deviation vibration information further includes: When the actual deviation ratio exceeds the maximum range of each preset deviation range, the vibration unit located at the end of the target vibration region that is far from another vibration region is determined as the target vibration unit. The target vibration unit is controlled to vibrate based on preset strong reminder rules.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of generating step frequency deviation vibration information based on a preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency includes: The actual deviation is obtained based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency; When the actual deviation exceeds the preset allowable deviation range, step frequency deviation vibration information is generated.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wearable device includes a third vibration region located between the first vibration region and the second vibration region, and the third vibration region has at least one vibration unit; after the step of driving the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate according to the step frequency deviation vibration information, the device further includes: Based on a preset target step frequency, generate guided vibration commands; According to the guiding vibration command, the vibration unit in the third vibration region is controlled to vibrate.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, after a preset interval of time after the target vibration unit finishes vibrating, the vibration unit in the third vibration region is controlled to vibrate.

[0015] The present invention also proposes a wearable device, the wearable device comprising: Multiple vibration units, each vibration unit being arranged along a first direction; and A control module electrically connected to each of the vibration units, the control module being configured to perform the step frequency guidance method as described in any one of the above descriptions.

[0016] In this technical solution, the cadence guidance method provided by the present invention employs multiple independent vibration units arranged along a first direction, and generates cadence deviation vibration information based on the actual cadence and the target cadence. Then, it drives the vibration units at corresponding positions to vibrate according to this information. This solves the problem that existing vibration feedback cannot inform users of the direction and degree of cadence deviation, requiring the use of voice or a screen, thus interrupting the running rhythm. Specifically, since each vibration unit has a clear spatial positional relationship in the first direction, after acquiring the actual cadence and comparing it with the target cadence, the system can map the direction and magnitude of the deviation to a specific vibration position in real time—for example, activating the vibration unit in the inner region when the cadence is too slow, and activating the vibration unit in the outer region when the cadence is too fast. The greater the deviation, the closer the activated vibration unit is to the end of the region, thereby transforming the abstract cadence difference into an intuitive tactile spatial code. Users can instantly know whether their current cadence is too fast or too slow and how much it has deviated simply by sensing the location of the vibration with their wrist, without needing to look at a screen or rely on voice prompts. Thus, this invention enables the simultaneous transmission of cadence deviation direction and degree information to the user without interrupting the running rhythm or occupying the visual and auditory channels. This significantly improves the intuitiveness, real-time performance, and user experience of cadence guidance, and reduces cadence adjustment errors caused by viewing the device or difficulty in hearing the voice, thus avoiding disruption of the original running rhythm. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a first flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 2 This is a second flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 3 This is a third flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 4 This is a fourth flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 5 This is a fifth flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 6 A sixth flowchart of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention; Figure 7 The seventh flowchart is a representation of an embodiment of the step frequency guidance method provided by the present invention.

[0019] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present invention are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0022] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this invention is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the meaning of "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions; for example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of a person skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0023] The main objective of this invention is to provide a cadence guidance method that uses cadence deviation information to drive the vibration of a vibration unit at a corresponding spatial location, allowing the user to determine the direction of cadence deviation simply by sensing the vibration location through touch, without the need for voice or a screen, thereby achieving cadence guidance without interrupting the running rhythm.

[0024] To achieve the above objectives, the step frequency guidance method provided by this invention is applied to a wearable device. The wearable device includes multiple independently configured and controlled vibration units, which are arranged in a first direction. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 Step frequency guidance methods include: S10: Obtain the user's actual step frequency; S20: Generate vibration information of step frequency deviation based on preset target step frequency and actual step frequency; S30: Drive the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate based on the step frequency deviation vibration information.

[0025] First, it needs to be explained that wearable devices refer to electronic devices that can be worn on the human body, including but not limited to wristband devices, headband devices, waistband devices, armband devices, or legband devices. A vibration unit refers to a device that can convert electrical energy into mechanical vibration, such as an eccentric rotating mass motor or a linear resonant motor. "Multiple" refers to two or more units. "Multiple vibration units can be independently controlled and configured" means that the start, stop, vibration intensity, vibration duration, and other parameters of each vibration unit can be controlled individually and without being affected by other vibration units.

[0026] In step 10, obtaining the user's actual cadence refers to the real-time acquisition of the user's wrist swing or foot impact signals during running by the built-in inertial measurement unit (IMU, which includes accelerometers and gyroscopes) of the wearable device, and the calculation of the number of steps taken per unit time (per minute) through filtering, peak detection and other algorithms, for example, 170 steps per minute.

[0027] Understandably, this acquisition process can be carried out continuously and periodically to provide real-time benchmark data for subsequent deviation judgment.

[0028] It should be understood that how to convert the data measured by the inertial measurement unit into a specific number of steps is existing technology. The core concept of this invention is not to propose a new algorithm. Therefore, how to convert the data into the actual step frequency will not be explained in detail.

[0029] In step 20, the preset target cadence is a desired cadence value (e.g., 180 steps / minute) set by the user or recommended by the running software. This value can be stored in the wearable device's memory or a cloud server; there is no limitation here. Generating cadence deviation vibration information involves the processor comparing the actual cadence with the target cadence to calculate the deviation value. Then, based on the sign and absolute value of the deviation, it is converted into control parameters that can be used to drive the vibration unit, thus completing the conversion from "numerical deviation" to "tactile encoding." For example, a positive deviation value indicates that the actual cadence is too fast, a negative deviation value indicates that the actual cadence is too slow, and the absolute value of the deviation represents the degree of deviation from the target cadence.

[0030] In step 30, the controller analyzes the vibration information of the step frequency deviation, selects the vibration unit to be activated (for example, selects a unit on the inside of the wrist when the step frequency is too slow, selects a unit on the outside when the step frequency is too fast, and the larger the deviation, the further away the selected vibration unit is from the center), sets the vibration duration and intensity, and then sends a drive signal to the unit to make it vibrate. The user can know the step frequency deviation by sensing the location where the vibration occurs.

[0031] In one application scenario, a user wears the cadence-guided wristband of this invention for morning jogging, with a target cadence of 180 steps / minute. The controller in the wearable device detects and calculates the user's actual cadence as 170 steps / minute using an inertial measurement unit. After comparison, a deviation of -10 (too slow) is obtained, generating cadence deviation vibration information indicating vibration on the inner side of the wrist near the center. Based on the cadence deviation vibration information, the controller drives the corresponding vibration unit to vibrate. For example, if the user feels vibration on the inner side of the wrist, they know that the cadence is too slow and thus increase their pace.

[0032] When the actual step frequency of the user is detected to increase to 178, the deviation is reduced to -2. The controller generates new step frequency deviation vibration information, thereby driving the vibration unit closer to the center of the wristband to vibrate. The user perceives the vibration position moving towards the center and knows that he or she is close to the target.

[0033] When the cadence reaches 180, the deviation is 0, and the controller no longer generates deviation vibration information or generates a target indication. At this time, the user knows that there is no cadence deviation, thus maintaining the current running rhythm.

[0034] Throughout the adjustment process, users do not need to look at the screen or listen to voice commands; they can adjust their cadence in real time simply by observing changes in the vibration position, achieving precise guidance without interrupting their running rhythm.

[0035] In this technical solution, the cadence guidance method provided by the present invention employs multiple independent vibration units arranged along a first direction, and generates cadence deviation vibration information based on the actual cadence and the target cadence. Then, it drives the vibration units at corresponding positions to vibrate according to this information. This solves the problem that existing vibration feedback cannot inform users of the direction and degree of cadence deviation, requiring the use of voice or a screen, thus interrupting the running rhythm. Specifically, since each vibration unit has a clear spatial positional relationship in the first direction, after acquiring the actual cadence and comparing it with the target cadence, the system can map the direction and magnitude of the deviation to a specific vibration position in real time—for example, activating the vibration unit in the inner region when the cadence is too slow, and activating the vibration unit in the outer region when the cadence is too fast. The greater the deviation, the closer the activated vibration unit is to the end of the region, thereby transforming the abstract cadence difference into an intuitive tactile spatial code. Users can instantly know whether their current cadence is too fast or too slow and how much it has deviated simply by sensing the location of the vibration with their wrist, without needing to look at a screen or rely on voice prompts. Thus, this invention enables the simultaneous transmission of cadence deviation direction and degree information to the user without interrupting the running rhythm or occupying the visual and auditory channels. This significantly improves the intuitiveness, real-time performance, and user experience of cadence guidance, and reduces cadence adjustment errors caused by viewing the device or difficulty in hearing the voice, thus avoiding disruption of the original running rhythm.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wearable device includes a first vibration region and a second vibration region, which are arranged along a first direction. Both the first and second vibration regions have multiple vibration units. The step frequency deviation vibration information includes the positive and negative values ​​of the deviation and the absolute value of the deviation. (See also...) Figure 2 Step 30 includes: S31: Determine the target vibration region in the first vibration region and the second vibration region based on the positive and negative values ​​of the step frequency deviation vibration information; S32: Based on the absolute value of the step frequency deviation vibration information, determine the target vibration element among multiple vibration elements in the target vibration region; S33: Drives the target vibration unit to vibrate.

[0037] First, the wearable device (such as a wristband) has two vibration zones set along its length (i.e., the first direction, specifically the circumferential direction from the inside to the outside of the wrist when worn by the user): a first vibration zone and a second vibration zone. The first vibration zone is set closer to the inside of the wrist, and the second vibration zone is set closer to the outside of the wrist.

[0038] Each vibration zone contains multiple independently controlled vibration units, which are arranged sequentially along the same direction as the first direction. For example, the vibration units in the first vibration zone extend from the center of the wristband to the innermost end, and the vibration units in the second vibration zone extend from the center of the wristband to the outermost end.

[0039] The innermost and outermost sides are the two ends of the wristband.

[0040] In step 31, the controller determines a unique target vibration region from the first and second vibration regions based on the positive or negative value of the deviation in the step frequency deviation vibration information. The positive or negative value of the deviation in the step frequency deviation vibration information is used to indicate whether the actual step frequency is too fast or too slow relative to the target step frequency: if the deviation value is positive, it means that the actual step frequency is too fast; if the deviation value is negative, it means that the actual step frequency is too slow.

[0041] When the deviation is negative (too slow), the controller selects the first vibration area near the inside of the wrist as the target vibration area; when the deviation is positive (too fast), the controller selects the second vibration area near the outside of the wrist as the target vibration area.

[0042] This step allows users to instantly determine the direction of cadence deviation simply by whether the vibration occurs on the inside or outside of the wrist.

[0043] In step 32, the controller further selects a specific vibration unit as the target vibration unit from among multiple vibration units in the already determined target vibration area based on the absolute value of the deviation in the step frequency deviation vibration information.

[0044] The absolute value of the deviation indicates the degree to which the actual step frequency deviates from the target step frequency; the larger the value, the more severe the deviation. Multiple vibration units in each vibration area are arranged sequentially from the center of the wristband to the end of the area (i.e., the end away from another vibration area), and they are pre-configured to correspond to different deviation ranges: the vibration unit closer to the end represents a larger deviation, and the vibration unit closer to the center represents a smaller deviation.

[0045] Therefore, the controller selects the vibration unit corresponding to the degree of deviation based on the magnitude of the absolute value of the deviation, according to a preset mapping rule (such as linear proportion or segmented interval). If the absolute value of the deviation is large, the vibration unit near the end is selected; if the absolute value of the deviation is small, the vibration unit near the center is selected. Through this step, the user can determine the degree of deviation by sensing the specific location of the vibration within the area (whether it is near the end or near the center).

[0046] In step 33, the controller drives the identified target vibration unit to vibrate. The controller sends a drive signal to the vibration unit, causing it to vibrate with set parameters such as duration and intensity. The user's wrist skin will clearly perceive the location of the vibration: whether it is on the inner or outer side (direction), and whether it is closer to the end or closer to the center within that area (degree).

[0047] Through this step, users can obtain information on whether their running pace is too fast or too slow, as well as "by how much", all with just one tactile sensation, without interrupting their running rhythm. This allows them to make accurate adjustments to accelerate or decelerate.

[0048] In one application scenario, a user wears a device that implements the cadence guidance method proposed in this invention for a morning run, setting a target cadence of 180 steps / minute. The controller detects an actual cadence of 170 steps / minute via an inertial measurement unit, indicating a negative deviation (too slow) with an absolute value of 10. Based on this, the controller selects the innermost first vibration region as the target vibration region. Simultaneously, the absolute deviation of 10 corresponds to a relatively large degree of deviation; therefore, the controller selects the vibration unit near the innermost end of the first vibration region as the target vibration unit and drives it to vibrate. The user feels vibration at the innermost part of their wrist, immediately recognizing that their cadence is too slow and significantly so they significantly increase their pace.

[0049] When the user's step frequency increases to 178, the deviation is negative but the absolute value is 2. The controller still selects the first vibration area on the inside as the target vibration area, but the absolute value of the deviation is reduced to 2. Thus, the corresponding vibration unit close to the center is selected as the target vibration unit, and the target vibration unit is driven to vibrate. The user feels the vibration position moving towards the center of the wristband and realizes that the target step frequency has been approached.

[0050] When the cadence reaches 180, the deviation is 0, and the deviation vibration is no longer triggered. The user then knows that the target cadence has been reached, and can continue running at the current running pace.

[0051] Throughout the process, the user can make precise adjustments from "significantly slower" to "closer to the target" simply by observing the change in the vibration position (from the inner end to the inner center), without having to look at the screen or listen to the voice.

[0052] Further, please refer to Figure 3 Step 32 includes; S321: Obtain the absolute value of the deviation based on the step frequency deviation vibration information; S322: Calculate the ratio of the absolute value of the deviation to the actual deviation of the target step frequency; S323: Based on the actual deviation ratio, determine the target vibration element among multiple vibration elements in the target vibration region.

[0053] In step 321, the controller extracts the absolute value of the deviation from the generated cadence deviation vibration information. This cadence deviation vibration information includes both the positive / negative value and the absolute value of the deviation, where the absolute value represents the magnitude of the difference between the actual cadence and the target cadence. For example, if the user's actual cadence is 170 and the target cadence is 180, the absolute value of the deviation is 10; similarly, if the actual cadence is 190 and the target cadence is 180, the absolute value of the deviation is also 10. The purpose of this step is to separate the magnitude of the deviation into a purely numerical form, providing foundational data for subsequent calculations of the ratio relative to the target cadence.

[0054] In step 322, the controller calculates the ratio of the absolute value of the deviation to the target step frequency, i.e., the actual deviation ratio. The specific formula is: Actual Deviation Ratio = Absolute Deviation / Target Step Frequency. This ratio reflects the proportion of the deviation relative to the target step frequency. For example, if the target step frequency is 180 and the absolute value of the deviation is 10, then the actual deviation ratio is approximately 0.0556 (i.e., 5.56%). Using the actual deviation ratio instead of the original absolute value of the deviation for subsequent mapping can eliminate the scaling effect caused by different target step frequencies, ensuring consistency of the mapping rules under different step frequency targets.

[0055] For example, with the same absolute deviation of 10, the percentage is about 5.6% when the target step frequency is 180 and about 6.7% when the target step frequency is 150. The latter has a relatively larger deviation and should therefore be mapped to the vibration unit closer to the end.

[0056] In step 323, the controller selects a unique target vibration unit from multiple vibration units within the determined target vibration area based on the calculated actual deviation ratio. Each vibration unit within the target vibration area is pre-configured to correspond to a different deviation ratio range. For example, vibration units near the center correspond to a smaller deviation ratio (e.g., 0-3%), vibration units in the middle correspond to a medium deviation ratio (e.g., 3%-6%), and vibration units near the end correspond to a larger deviation ratio (e.g., 6%-10%).

[0057] The controller compares the actual deviation ratio with these preset intervals to find the corresponding interval and thus determine the corresponding vibration unit. Through this step, the user can perceive the specific location of the vibration within the area (whether it is closer to the center or closer to the end), and thus know the degree of deviation relative to the target step frequency, thereby more scientifically determining the magnitude of adjustment that needs to be made.

[0058] In one application scenario, a user wears the device while running, with a target cadence of 180 steps per minute. The controller detects an actual cadence of 170 steps per minute, thus determining an absolute deviation of 10. Next, based on the calculation formula, the actual deviation ratio is calculated to be 5.56%. Based on a preset deviation ratio range, 0-3% corresponds to the end of the target vibration area near another vibration area, 3%-6% corresponds to the middle unit, and 6%-10% corresponds to the end unit. Therefore, 5.56% falls within the 3%-6% range, and the vibration unit in the middle position of the target vibration area is selected as the target vibration unit.

[0059] The controller drives the unit to vibrate. The user feels the vibration occurring on the inside but not at the very end, indicating that their stride frequency is too slow, by about 5% to 6%, so they moderately increase their pace. When the user's stride frequency increases to 178, the absolute deviation is 2, and the actual deviation ratio is about 1.11%, falling into the 0-3% range. The controller then selects the vibration unit closer to the center, and the user perceives the vibration position moving towards the center, knowing that they are approaching the target. They can then continue running at their current pace to achieve the target stride frequency.

[0060] Further, please refer to Figure 4 Step 323 includes: S3231: Based on multiple different preset deviation ranges, position coding is performed on each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region; S3232: Determine the target vibration element among multiple vibration elements in the target vibration region based on the actual deviation ratio and the preset deviation range.

[0061] In step 3231, the controller performs position encoding on each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region based on multiple different preset deviation ranges. The so-called "position encoding" means assigning a deviation range label corresponding to its physical position to each vibration unit, that is, specifying the deviation ratio range that each vibration unit represents.

[0062] In one embodiment, along the direction from the end of each vibration region away from another vibration region to the direction closer to another vibration region (e.g., from the innermost end of the first vibration region towards the center of the wristband, or from the outermost end of the second vibration region towards the center of the wristband), the vibration units are sequentially encoded according to a preset deviation range from large to small: the vibration unit closest to the end corresponds to the largest deviation range (e.g., deviation ratio greater than 8%), the next closest to the end corresponds to the second largest deviation range (e.g., 6% to 8%), and so on, with the vibration unit closest to the center corresponding to the smallest deviation range (e.g., 0 to 2%). This encoding process can be pre-completed during device initialization or after the user sets the target step frequency and stored in the controller. Through position encoding, a fixed mapping relationship is established between the tactile position of each vibration unit and the degree of deviation it represents.

[0063] In step 3232, the controller determines the target vibration unit from among multiple vibration units in the target vibration area (which has been determined by the positive and negative values ​​of the deviation) based on the actual deviation ratio calculated in step 322 and the preset deviation range of each vibration unit set in step 3231.

[0064] Specifically, the controller compares the actual deviation ratio with the preset deviation range corresponding to each vibration unit within the target vibration area, and finds the range to which the actual deviation ratio belongs. The vibration unit corresponding to that range is the target vibration unit. For example, if the actual deviation ratio is 5.6%, and the preset deviation range is set as follows: unit A (most central) corresponds to 0-2%, unit B corresponds to 2%-4%, unit C corresponds to 4%-6%, and unit D (most end) corresponds to 6%-10%, then the actual deviation ratio of 5.6% falls within the range of unit C, so unit C is selected as the target vibration unit.

[0065] Through this step, the controller can discretize and accurately map the continuously changing actual deviation ratio onto a uniquely determined vibration unit. By sensing the specific location of the vibration within this area, the user can determine the degree of deviation relative to the preset level and thus intuitively judge the magnitude of adjustment required.

[0066] In one embodiment of the present invention, step 3231 includes: Based on the direction from the end of each vibration region away from another vibration region to the end closer to another vibration region, the position of each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region is encoded in descending order of each preset deviation range.

[0067] Specifically, step 3231 further defines the specific direction and correspondence for position encoding of the vibration units. In step S3231, the controller performs position encoding on each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region according to a clear spatial direction, so that a fixed, one-to-one mapping relationship is established between each vibration unit and the preset deviation range it represents.

[0068] The encoding direction is from the end of each vibration region furthest from another vibration region towards the direction closest to another vibration region. For example, for the first vibration region (e.g., the region located on the inside of the wrist), "the end furthest from another vibration region" refers to the innermost end, that is, the end furthest from the center of the wristband and furthest from the second vibration region; "the direction closest to another vibration region" refers to the direction from that end toward the center of the wristband and toward the second vibration region. For the second vibration region (e.g., the region located on the outside of the wrist), "the end furthest from another vibration region" refers to the outermost end, that is, the end furthest from the center of the wristband and furthest from the first vibration region; "the direction closest to another vibration region" also refers to the direction from that end toward the center of the wristband and toward the first vibration region.

[0069] When arranging the vibration units along the aforementioned direction, the preset deviation ranges corresponding to each vibration unit are configured in descending order. That is, the vibration unit located at the very end of each vibration area (farthest from another vibration area) corresponds to the largest preset deviation range (e.g., a deviation ratio exceeding 8%); along the direction closer to the center, the next vibration unit corresponds to the second largest deviation range (e.g., 6% to 8%); and so on, until the vibration unit closest to the center of the wristband (i.e., closest to another vibration area) corresponds to the smallest preset deviation range (e.g., 0 to 2%).

[0070] Through this positional coding, an intuitive positive correlation is formed between the physical position of the vibration unit (from the end to the center) and the magnitude of the deviation range (from large to small): the closer to the end, the larger the deviation; the closer to the center, the smaller the deviation. When a user perceives vibration occurring at a specific location within a vibration area, they can immediately determine whether the current step frequency deviates significantly from the target step frequency based on whether that location is closer to the end or the center.

[0071] Further, please refer to Figure 5 Step 30 also includes: S34: When the actual deviation ratio exceeds the maximum range of each preset deviation range, the vibration unit located at the end of the target vibration region that is far from another vibration region is determined as the target vibration unit. S35: Controls the vibration of the target vibration unit based on preset strong reminder rules.

[0072] In step 34, when the actual deviation ratio calculated by the controller exceeds the maximum range among all preset deviation ranges, it indicates that the current step frequency deviates from the target step frequency to a very serious degree, exceeding the upper limit that the system can represent through conventional position encoding.

[0073] At this point, the controller no longer selects the vibration unit corresponding to the deviation range according to the "deviation ratio - position" mapping rule, but directly determines the vibration unit located at the end (i.e. the farthest end) of the target vibration region that is far from another vibration region as the target vibration unit.

[0074] For example, the innermost end unit in the first vibration zone or the outermost end unit in the second vibration zone. This selection method differs from the method of selecting the middle or central unit when the deviation falls within the preset range. It conveys a special signal of "severe exceedance" to the user by forcibly selecting the end unit.

[0075] In step 35, after the controller determines that the end vibration unit is the target vibration unit, the controller controls the vibration of the target vibration unit based on a preset strong alert rule. The purpose of setting the strong alert rule is to enable the user to immediately perceive that the current step frequency deviation has exceeded the normal alert range, which is a serious deviation and requires significant adjustment.

[0076] Specifically, regarding vibration duration, when regular reminder vibrations use short pulses, the duration of a single vibration is generally 0.1 to 0.2 seconds, while strong reminder rules extend the vibration duration to 0.8 to 1.5 seconds, and may even use continuous vibrations until the deviation returns to the normal range, so that users can feel a noticeable "long vibration".

[0077] In terms of vibration intensity, when the regular alert vibration is usually set to medium intensity, it is about 40% to 60% of the maximum vibration amplitude, while the strong alert rule increases the vibration intensity to 80% to 100%, making users feel a noticeable "strong vibration".

[0078] In terms of vibration modes, when the regular reminder vibration uses a single short pulse, that is, each deviation triggers only one vibration, while the strong reminder rule can use multiple repeated pulses (such as three consecutive fast short vibrations followed by a long vibration) or pulses with gradually changing intensity (such as the intensity rapidly increasing from weak to strong) to form a special vibration tactile sensation.

[0079] Regarding vibration frequency, when the regular reminder vibration uses the normal vibration frequency, the strong reminder rule can switch to a lower frequency to produce a heavy "hammering" feeling, or switch to a higher frequency to produce a sharp feeling, further enhancing the distinction from the regular vibration.

[0080] Understandably, the vibration parameters for the aforementioned strong alert rules can be used individually or in combination. For example, a strong alert rule can be configured as follows: vibration duration 1.2 seconds, vibration intensity 100%, using a gradual pulse pattern of "weak-strong-weak," and operating frequency 100Hz. Users can clearly distinguish the difference between this vibration and regular vibration through touch, thus becoming aware of a significant deviation in their step frequency.

[0081] In one application scenario, when a user's target cadence is 180, but the actual cadence drops significantly to 150, the absolute deviation is 30, and the actual deviation ratio is approximately 30 / 180 ≈ 16.7%. This value exceeds the preset maximum deviation range (assuming a maximum of 10%). Instead of selecting units in the inner region corresponding to the normal deviation range (such as unit C or D), the controller directly locks onto the innermost end unit as the target vibration unit. Then, according to the strong alert rule, this end unit is driven to vibrate for a long time (1.5 seconds) at 100% intensity. The user feels a strong and sustained vibration at the innermost part of their wrist, clearly different from the short, moderate vibrations they had previously encountered, and immediately realizes that their cadence is severely too slow, thus significantly increasing their pace.

[0082] Once the step frequency rises back to 170 (deviation ratio 5.56%), the actual deviation ratio falls back into the preset range. The controller then resumes normal short, medium-intensity vibrations and corresponding position codes (e.g., activating the middle unit in the inner region). Users can then perform subsequent fine-tuning by changing the vibration position.

[0083] By combining this strong alert when the frequency exceeds the range with the regular position-coded vibration within the range, the present invention achieves complete coverage and differentiated feedback for the full range of step frequency deviations.

[0084] To avoid frequent, meaningless vibrations caused by minute natural fluctuations in step frequency, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 6 Step 20 includes: S21: Obtain the actual deviation based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency; S22: When the actual deviation exceeds the preset allowable deviation range, generate step frequency deviation vibration information.

[0085] In step S21, the controller calculates the actual deviation based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency. The actual deviation is the difference between the actual step frequency and the target step frequency, i.e., the actual step frequency minus the target step frequency. This difference can be positive, negative, or zero. Its absolute value reflects the degree of deviation, and the sign reflects the direction of deviation (positive indicates a faster pace, negative indicates a slower pace). For example, if the target step frequency is 180 and the actual step frequency is 178, the actual deviation is -2; if the actual step frequency is 183, the actual deviation is +3.

[0086] In step S22, the controller determines whether the actual deviation obtained in step S21 exceeds the preset allowable deviation range. Only when it exceeds this range is vibration information of the cadence deviation generated. The preset allowable deviation range refers to a symmetrical interval centered on zero deviation, such as [-ε, +ε], where ε is the preset allowable deviation threshold (e.g., 2 steps / minute). This range represents the range of natural fluctuations in cadence acceptable to the user. During actual running, due to factors such as breathing, road surface, and fatigue, there will always be slight fluctuations in cadence. These fluctuations are normal and do not require vibration reminders to the user every time.

[0087] Therefore, when the absolute value of the actual deviation is less than or equal to ε (i.e., the deviation falls within the allowable range), the controller determines that the target is met and does not generate any step frequency deviation vibration information, thus not triggering subsequent deviation feedback vibration; only when the absolute value of the actual deviation is greater than ε, the controller determines that the step frequency has truly deviated from the target, thereby generating step frequency deviation vibration information and entering the subsequent vibration drive process.

[0088] Through this step, the controller can effectively filter out normal physiological fluctuations in step frequency, and only issue a vibration prompt when the user needs to actively adjust, thereby avoiding the problem of "constant vibration" caused by minor fluctuations.

[0089] In one application scenario, a user wears a device while running, with a target cadence of 180 steps per minute and a preset allowable deviation range of ±3 steps per minute (i.e., ε=3). During the run, the user's cadence is not constant but fluctuates naturally around the target value: for example, the user's cadence changes between 178, 179, 180, 181, and 182 steps per minute.

[0090] In this embodiment, since the preset allowable deviation range is ±3 steps / minute, the actual deviation (such as -4 or +4) will only exceed this range when the step frequency is lower than 177 or higher than 183, and only then will step frequency deviation vibration information be generated and vibration be triggered.

[0091] Therefore, when the cadence fluctuates between 177 and 183, the system remains silent, and the user receives no vibration alerts. Only when the cadence truly deviates below 177 (e.g., 175) or above 183 (e.g., 185), will the controller vibrate based on the deviation feedback to inform the user that adjustment is needed. This avoids continuous, meaningless vibration interference caused by the natural physiological fluctuations in cadence, and only provides clear prompts when active cadence adjustment is truly required. This ensures the effectiveness of the guidance while significantly improving wearing comfort and user experience. Simultaneously, by reducing unnecessary vibrations, the device's power consumption is reduced, extending battery life.

[0092] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wearable device includes a third vibration region located between the first and second vibration regions, and the third vibration region has at least one vibration unit; see also Figure 7 After step 30, the following also includes: S40: Generates guided vibration commands based on preset target step frequency; S50: Controls the vibration of the vibration unit in the third vibration zone according to the vibration guidance command.

[0093] In this embodiment, the wearable device also includes a third vibration region located between the first and second vibration regions, i.e., at the center of the wristband. The third vibration region includes at least one vibration unit, and may also include multiple vibration units arranged along the first direction, which serve to provide guided vibration independent of the deviation feedback vibration.

[0094] In step S40, the controller generates a guiding vibration command based on a preset target step frequency. The guiding vibration command is a purely rhythmic control signal independent of step frequency deviation. Specifically, the controller calculates the corresponding vibration period based on the target step frequency value (e.g., 180 steps / minute), where the vibration period T = 60 / target step frequency (seconds). For example, with a target step frequency of 180, the period is approximately 0.333 seconds. The controller then generates a vibration command that is repeatedly triggered at this period. This command does not contain any information about the direction or degree of deviation; it is only used to provide a stable beat reference. The purpose of this step is to create a "rhythm anchor" independent of deviation feedback, allowing the user to align their steps to the target rhythm.

[0095] In step S50, the controller controls the vibration unit in the third vibration region to vibrate according to the generated guided vibration command. The third vibration region is located between the first and second vibration regions (i.e., the center of the wristband), and its vibration unit is usually one or more units in the central position, which is not limited here. The controller drives the vibration unit in the third vibration region to emit beat vibrations corresponding to the vibration period according to the period set by the guided vibration command (e.g., once every 0.333 seconds).

[0096] In this way, by providing users with a precise guiding vibration, users can quickly adjust to the desired target stride frequency after knowing the direction and magnitude of the deviation, without having to make multiple adjustments and avoiding disrupting their running rhythm.

[0097] In one application scenario, when a user sets their target cadence to 180, the controller generates a guiding vibration command with a period of 0.333 seconds, thereby controlling the vibration unit in the third vibration area (center of the wristband) to continuously emit short "ta-ta-ta" beat vibrations at this period as a stable rhythm reference.

[0098] At this point, the user receives two types of tactile information: the vibration in the first vibration area alerts them to being "too slow," while the central beat tells them that "the correct rhythm should be one step every 0.333 seconds." The user simply needs to adjust their stride to align the landing time of each step with the vibration of the central beat. The inner deviation feedback vibration will then gradually move towards the center as the stride frequency approaches the target until it disappears completely. If the user's stride frequency is too fast (e.g., 190), the outer area will vibrate, and the user needs to slow down to align with the central beat.

[0099] Throughout the process, users do not need visual or auditory assistance; they can obtain both the "current state (deviation)" and the "target state (rhythm)" simultaneously through touch alone, thus quickly completing the cadence adjustment.

[0100] Furthermore, when the user's actual cadence differs significantly from the target cadence (e.g., actual cadence 150, target cadence 180, a difference of 30 steps / minute), the controller first calculates the difference between the current actual cadence and the target cadence, and then generates one or more intermediate guiding cadences according to a preset cadence increment (e.g., 5-10 steps / minute). For example, if the target cadence is 180 and the current actual cadence is 150, the intermediate guiding cadence sequence could be: 160, 170, 175, 180.

[0101] The controller dynamically adjusts the guiding step frequency based on the real-time changes in the actual step frequency. When the actual step frequency is lower than 160, 160 is used as the guiding step frequency; when the actual step frequency reaches 160, it automatically switches to 170; and so on, until the target step frequency of 180 is reached.

[0102] This phased guidance method allows users to increase their cadence by a small amount each time (e.g., 10 steps / minute), making it easy to follow and making the adjustment process smoother and more natural. It avoids gait confusion or muscle discomfort caused by excessively large cadence increases.

[0103] Meanwhile, when generating vibration guidance commands, the controller can also consider the device's remaining battery power. The third vibration zone can contain multiple vibration units. When the device has sufficient battery power, the controller can drive all vibration units to vibrate simultaneously to provide a stronger and more easily perceived beat cues. When the battery power is low, the controller can reduce the number of units involved in the vibration (e.g., drive only the central vibration unit) or reduce the vibration intensity to extend the battery life.

[0104] In addition, the number of vibration units can be manually or automatically selected based on ambient noise or user preference. For example, in a noisy environment, multiple vibration units can be selected to vibrate simultaneously to enhance the alerting effect; in a quiet environment, a single vibration unit can be selected to vibrate gently.

[0105] In one application scenario, the user's target step frequency is 180, while the actual step frequency is 150, and the remaining battery power is 60%. The controller first generates a guiding sequence: 160, 170, 180. At the same time, based on the remaining battery power of 60%, it determines that the two central units in the third vibration region vibrate simultaneously with an intensity of 50%.

[0106] First, the controller generates a guiding vibration command for the current stage (160 steps / minute), thereby driving two vibration units in the third vibration zone to vibrate with a period of 0.375 seconds. The user simultaneously perceives a "tap, tap" rhythm emanating from two points in the third vibration zone. The user adjusts their steps according to the rhythm; when the step frequency increases to 160, the system automatically switches to the next stage guiding step frequency of 170 (period of 0.353 seconds), and so on, thus guiding the user to adjust to the target step frequency.

[0107] In summary, by guiding the cadence in stages, users can smoothly transition from their current actual cadence to the target cadence, with only a small increase each time, reducing the difficulty of following and avoiding gait confusion and muscle discomfort caused by large cadence jumps. At the same time, by adaptively selecting the number and intensity of vibration units in the third vibration area based on the remaining battery power, the device's power consumption can be effectively managed while ensuring the guiding effect, extending the usage time after a single charge and improving the user experience.

[0108] Furthermore, after a preset interval after the target vibration unit has finished vibrating, the vibration of the vibration unit in the third vibration region is controlled.

[0109] Specifically, when the controller drives the target vibration unit to vibrate according to the step frequency deviation information and after the vibration ends, it does not immediately output the guided vibration, but starts a timer to wait for a preset interval (e.g., 0.3 seconds to 0.8 seconds, preferably 0.5 seconds).

[0110] Once the interval has elapsed, the controller generates and outputs a vibration guidance command, controlling the vibration units in the third vibration zone to emit beat vibrations according to the period of the target step frequency.

[0111] Through this "deviation feedback followed by guidance" timing design, the two vibrations are completely separated in time. The user perceives two independent tactile events: first, a brief positional cue (informing the direction and degree of the cadence deviation), followed by a stable rhythm reference (informing the target cadence) after a brief silence. Because the two do not occur simultaneously, the user's brain does not need to process the two tactile information in parallel, thus avoiding perceptual confusion or information loss caused by vibration overlap.

[0112] Understandably, the preset interval should not be too short, otherwise the user may still perceive the two vibrations as consecutive events. Of course, it should not be too long either, otherwise the user may forget the deviation information or adjust the delay. The specific interval can be automatically input according to the user's personal preferences to adapt to different individuals' reaction speed preferences; the specific interval is not limited here.

[0113] In this embodiment, by limiting the guiding vibration to begin only after the target vibration unit has finished vibrating and a preset interval has elapsed, the deviation feedback vibration and the guiding vibration are completely separated in time, eliminating the superposition interference of the two tactile signals. Users can clearly receive the "current status information" and "target status information" in sequence, reducing cognitive burden and improving adjustment accuracy. At the same time, the preset interval gives users a short processing time, making cadence adjustment more relaxed and precise, further enhancing the experience and effect of running guidance.

[0114] The present invention also proposes a wearable device, which includes multiple vibration units and a control module. Each vibration unit is arranged along a first direction, and the control module is electrically connected to each vibration unit. The control module is configured to execute the step frequency guidance method as described above. Since the wearable device proposed by the present invention adopts all the technical solutions of the above-described step frequency guidance method embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the above embodiments, which will not be elaborated here.

[0115] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the specification and drawings of the present invention under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A step frequency guidance method, applied to wearable devices, characterized in that, The wearable device includes multiple independently configured and controlled vibration units, all of which are arranged along a first direction. The step frequency guidance method includes: Obtain the user's actual step frequency; Based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency, step frequency deviation vibration information is generated; Based on the step frequency deviation vibration information, the vibration unit at the corresponding position is driven to vibrate.

2. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The wearable device includes a first vibration region and a second vibration region, which are arranged along a first direction. Both the first and second vibration regions have multiple vibration units. The step frequency deviation vibration information includes a positive / negative deviation value and an absolute deviation value. The step frequency deviation vibration information is used to drive the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate. Based on the positive and negative values ​​of the step frequency deviation vibration information, the target vibration region is determined in the first vibration region and the second vibration region; Based on the absolute value of the deviation of the step frequency deviation vibration information, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region; The target vibration unit is driven to vibrate.

3. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The step of determining the target vibration unit among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region based on the absolute value of the step frequency deviation vibration information includes: Based on the vibration information of the step frequency deviation, the absolute value of the deviation is obtained; Calculate the ratio of the absolute value of the deviation to the actual deviation of the target step frequency; Based on the actual deviation ratio, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region.

4. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The step of determining the target vibration unit among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region based on the actual deviation ratio includes: Based on multiple different preset deviation ranges, the position of each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region is encoded. Based on the actual deviation ratio and the preset deviation range, the target vibration unit is determined among multiple vibration units in the target vibration region.

5. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The step of encoding the position of each vibration unit in the first vibration region and the second vibration region based on multiple different preset deviation ranges includes: Based on the direction from the end of each vibration region away from another vibration region to the end closer to another vibration region, the vibration units in the first vibration region and the second vibration region are positionally encoded in descending order of the preset deviation range.

6. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The step of driving the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate based on the step frequency deviation vibration information further includes: When the actual deviation ratio exceeds the maximum range of each preset deviation range, the vibration unit located at the end of the target vibration region that is far from another vibration region is determined as the target vibration unit. The target vibration unit is controlled to vibrate based on preset strong reminder rules.

7. The step frequency guidance method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The wearable device includes a third vibration region located between the first vibration region and the second vibration region, and the third vibration region has at least one vibration unit; after the step of driving the vibration unit at the corresponding position to vibrate according to the step frequency deviation vibration information, the device further includes: Based on a preset target step frequency, generate guided vibration commands; According to the guiding vibration command, the vibration unit in the third vibration region is controlled to vibrate.

8. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, After a preset interval after the target vibration unit has finished vibrating, the vibration unit in the third vibration region is controlled to vibrate.

9. The step frequency guidance method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of generating step frequency deviation vibration information based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency includes: The actual deviation is obtained based on the preset target step frequency and the actual step frequency; When the actual deviation exceeds the preset allowable deviation range, step frequency deviation vibration information is generated.

10. A wearable device, characterized in that, The wearable device includes: Multiple vibration units, each vibration unit being arranged along a first direction; and A control module electrically connected to each of the vibration units, the control module being configured to perform the step frequency guidance method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images