Thermal asymmetry based athlete injury risk monitoring system and method

Abstract

The invention is a wearable thermography system that can instantaneously measure muscle thermal changes during exercise. By performing bilateral measurements, the system detects muscle temperature asymmetry, sends the data collected from sensors (1) wirelessly to a terminal device, and analyzes it to determine possible injury risks at an early stage. By performing measurements during movement, the system eliminates the requirement for a static environment and allows for real-time monitoring. Designed in the form of a wearable garment, the system is equipped with infrared temperature sensors (1), microcontroller and wireless communication module integrated into a flexible and breathable fabric. A high-precision system operating with a sensor (1) positioned in accordance with the user's anatomical structure has been developed to protect athlete health, improve training efficiency, and prevent injuries.

Description

[0001] THERMAL ASYMMETRY BASED ATHLETE INJURY RISK MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the fields of sports technologies , wearable sensor systems, thermography-based biomechanical analysis, and athlete health .

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] During physical activity, the human body meets its energy needs by providing increased blood flow to the muscles ; however, when muscle damage or overload occurs, there is a marked increase in blood flow in the relevant area, which results in localized temperature changes . Under normal conditions, a symmetrical thermal distribution is expected on both sides of the body (bilateral ) , but when one side is markedly warmer or colder than the other, this is defined as bilateral thermal asymmetry. This asymmetry can be an early indication of muscle fatigue, micro-tears, or injuries . Research shows that thermal asymmetry that reaches a certain level increases the risk of injury.

[0006] High-intensity sports performance is an important factor that increases the risk of injury for athletes . Soccer is one of the sports with the highest injury rate, with a reported injury prevalence of 15% per season. This rate can affect 65% to 95% of all players . In particular, the injury rate per 1000 hours of exposure varies depending on training and competition conditions .

[0007] In competitions, injury incidents ranging from 8 .7 to 65. 9 injuries per 1000 hours were observed, while in training, aninjury rate of 1.37 to 5. 8 injuries per 1000 hours was reported .

[0008] Intense training tempo and frequent match periods increase the risk of non-contact injury, especially with increased load in pre-season periods . Research shows that 17% of all athlete injuries occur in the pre-season period and accounts for 59% of non-contact injuries to the lower extremity. Therefore, preventive programs are implemented to reduce the risk of injury in athletes . Comprehensive injury prevention programs have proven effective in team sports , and infrared thermography is increasingly used to evaluate tissue changes and predict the risk of injury.

[0009] Infrared thermography is a technique that quickly and reliably measures skin temperature changes with a non-invasive method . Thermal imaging allows each pixel to correspond to a specific temperature value, which in turn provides detailed insight into muscle activity and mechanical load distribution . Since changes in blood flow during exercise have a direct impact on muscle surface temperature, thermal asymmetry may be an indicator of injury risk due to overload and fatigue .

[0010] Current thermography methods only require post-exercise imaging of athletes at a specific temperature, at a fixed distance and in a controlled light-tight environment to detect such changes . Current thermography applications are usually limited to stationary measurements and it is not possible to collect data within the natural movements of athletes during training or competition. This prevents real-time monitoring on the field or in the gym. Due to these restrictions , sudden changes in muscle temperature in athletes can be overlooked . When muscle fatigue, overload or muscle damage is not detected immediately, irregular muscle work and insufficient recoverytime can be ignored, setting the stage for more serious injuries to occur .

[0011] Although interest in thermography research has increased in recent years, the majority of these studies are limited to case studies with small sample sizes and their applicability in professional sport settings has not been adequately studied . Investigating the effects of thermography-based monitoring methods on athlete health is of critical importance, especially in sports with a high risk of injury, such as soccer . The development of systems capable of realtime and continuous on-field monitoring emerges as a critical requirement for protecting athlete health and enhancing performance .

[0012] There are documents in the technical field that disclose advancements related to sensor-equipped clothing developed to monitor body activities during sports .

[0013] US2023200700A1 is an example of the state of the art . The document describes a wearable system that measures muscle activity using bioimpedance measurement with removable textile patches containing bioelectrical sensors and conductive yarns , as well as a calculation unit . The system applies alternating current to tissues to determine muscle status and processes the measured signals . When the document is examined, it is evident that it does not consider bilateral thermal asymmetry as a source of data .

[0014] A wearable sensor system has been developed to address the aforementioned shortcomings, providing more comprehensive measurement and monitoring bilateral thermal asymmetry in the muscles .Detailed Description of the Invention

[0015] The invention relates to wearable sensor systems that can instantaneously measure muscle thermography during exercise .

[0016] One object of the invention is to monitor the athlete ' s loading status and performance by instantaneously measuring muscle temperature changes during exercise .

[0017] Another obj ect of the invention is to early detect injury risks and prevent injuries .

[0018] Another object of the invention is to overcome the constraints of existing methods by measuring thermography while in motion .

[0019] Another object of the invention is to support individual training management by optimizing training and recovery processes .

[0020] A further obj ect of the invention is to monitor physiological changes and energy consumption processes by analyzing temperature data .

[0021] A further obj ect of the invention is to increase long-term performance sustainability by protecting athlete health.

[0022] The invention, in its most general form, is a wearable thermography system that can instantaneously measure muscle temperature changes during exercise . This system allows the detection of muscle asymmetry and the determination of the risk of injury through thermal sensors ( 1 ) placed in the designated muscle groups in the human body. The data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) can be processed by two different methods . In the first method, the data is directly analyzed by an embedded system (microcontroller, microprocessor, or alow-power system module) , and when a predefined threshold value is reached, the system sends a warning message to the user . Thus, data processing is performed in the field and low power consumption is maintained. In the second method, the data collected from the sensors ( 1 ) is transferred to a central computer, tablet or cloud server using a wireless connection. More comprehensive analyses, long-term health data monitoring, and Al-powered assessments can be performed in this environment .

[0023] The system uses different types of thermal sensors to perform temperature measurements . These include thermistors, digital temperature sensors , infrared ( IR) -based sensors , microthermal detectors , and thermal camera sensors . Thermistors are an option that provides reliable measurements with low power consumption and are suitable for applications that come into direct contact with the skin surface . Digital temperature sensors offer an advantage in data processing since they do not require analog-to-digital conversion, whereas infrared-based sensors enable contactless measurement and offer increased comfort for users on the move . Microthermal detectors can detect intramuscular temperature changes , while thermal camera sensors allow a more comprehensive assessment by tracking regional temperature distributions .

[0024] The sensors ( 1 ) are implanted into the body by different methods . These methods include fixing with elastic tapes, using skin-friendly adhesive pads, integrating into wearable textile, or magnetic fixing methods . To enhance the accuracy of the data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) , the anatomical structure of the extremity and the individual muscle morphology are considered. Since muscle mass, volume and proportions can vary depending on the individual ' s sportsbranch, position and genetic factors, sensor ( 1 ) placement is optimized to suit individual anatomy.

[0025] Data processing and analysis are carried out by different methods depending on the design of the system. If the system works with the local processing model, an embedded microcontroller or microprocessor receives the data from the sensors ( 1 ) , performs the pre-processing steps and provides direct feedback to the user by analyzing the temperature differences in accordance with the determined algorithms . This model minimizes dependence on wireless connectivity by providing long-term use with low energy consumption . In the central processing model, data from sensors ( 1 ) is wirelessly transmitted to a central device where it is evaluated with advanced algorithms , machine learning models and big data analysis methods . Long-term trends can be identified and changes in the user ' s muscle asymmetry over time can be tracked .

[0026] The wireless communication infrastructure of the system varies depending on the data transfer requirements . While Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is used for low power consumption and short-distance connections, Wi-Fi may be preferred for faster data transmission and broadband requirements . Low-power communication protocols such as LoRa, Sigfox or NB-IoT can be used for long-distance connections . In scenarios that require real-time analysis over the cloud, data can be continuously transmitted to a central system via an LTE or 5G connection. Alternatively, short-distance data transfer technologies such as NFC or RFID may also be preferred in some use cases .

[0027] The bilateral measurement system allows muscle temperature asymmetries to be monitored through the coding of identicalanatomical points on the opposing limbs . For example, the codes are designated as follows : for the right anterior thigh (quadriceps ) QR1 , QR2 (Q : quadriceps, R: right ) , and for the left side, QL1 , QL2 (Q : quadriceps , L : left ) . Accordingly, for the right posterior thigh (hamstring) HR1 , HR2 (H : hamstring, R: right ) , and for the left side, HL1 , HL2 (H : hamstring, L : left) codes are used. This coding method provides a detailed evaluation to the user by clearly determining the muscle group and region in which the thermal asymmetry occurs .

[0028] Risk analysis and user feedback mechanisms are one of the critical components of the system. As a result of the processed data, the risk of injury to the user is calculated and warnings are generated when certain threshold values are exceeded. These alerts can be transmitted in the form of mobile app notifications , vibrating feedbacks on a smartwatch or a wristband, audible alerts or instant messages . If the system is integrated with a centralized analysis mechanism, long-term health records and personalized exercise recommendations can also be provided.

[0029] The invention also allows the athlete to monitor the transition between energy systems by instantaneously measuring muscle temperature changes during exercise . Biochemical processes such as carbohydrates being stored in the form of glycogen to provide energy, fatty acids contributing to high ATP production through the beta oxidation process and proteins being involved in energy production only in extreme cases have a direct impact on muscle temperature . The invention can analyze which energy system the organism uses by measuring these temperature changes and helps the user to organize training programs more efficiently. Thus , athletes can optimize their training loads by betterunderstanding the physiological responses of their bodies depending on their energy production processes .

[0030] The invention also allows for tracking physiological temperature changes related to the menstrual cycle for female users by instantaneously measuring muscle temperature changes during exercise . There is a slight increase in body temperature during the menstrual cycle, especially during ovulation, and this temperature change can persist for the rest of the cycle . In addition, changes in hormonal balance and differences in cervical mucus can also affect the physiological temperature responses of the organism. The invention provides data that can help the user optimize training processes in accordance with the cycle by monitoring these changes through temperature sensors ( 1 ) . This allows female athletes to better understand the physiological responses of their bodies during their menstrual cycles, making it possible to tailor their individual training plans .

[0031] The tights or tops, which are the wearable part of the invention, are made of polyester-elastane blended fabric that contains sensors ( 1 ) and electronic components and offers high elasticity and durability. Certain areas of the fabric are designed as perforated knitting to maximize air circulation and freedom of movement . The electronic components are protected by a polyurethane-based, breathable and waterproof coating against sweat and outdoor liquids . Alternatively, a selective insulation can be provided only by applying a water-repellent coating to the areas where the electronic components are located. The measurement accuracy of the sensors ( 1 ) is increased by using special fabrics with high infrared ray transmittance .

[0032] The power supply of the system is integrated in the belt area to provide a safe use without affecting the user comfort . Inorder to increase the protection of electronic components and ease of use, these sections have been provided with a modular structure . The removability of the electronic components enables the other parts of the garment to retain their washability. The modular structure is supported by zipper, velcro or magnetic connection mechanisms and offers a safe and practical use .

[0033] The system is configured to be adaptable to various usage scenarios through its modular structure . The system is operable both as a low-power, locally processing unit and as an extensive solution integrated with a central analysis unit . It offers the flexibility necessary to meet the needs of a broad user group, including athletes , physical therapy patients, office workers , and those performing physically demanding j obs . Depending on the user ' s needs , the system' s processing power, sensor ( 1 ) layout, wireless connection type, and feedback mechanisms can be customized .

[0034] The invention is a wearable system that can instantaneously measure muscle thermography during exercise and track temperature changes while in motion .

[0035] - This system includes at least one pair of infrared temperature sensors ( 1 ) placed on symmetrical points to be bilateral to certain muscle groups of the human body. - It has a microcontroller that can perform instant evaluation by processing temperature data .

[0036] - It includes a communication module that can wirelessly transmit the data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) to the terminal device (mobile device, tablet or computer) . - A data processing module capable of processing and visualizing temperature data is provided .- It comprises a flexible wearable textile material that contains the sensors ( 1 ) and electronic components and does not restrict the mobility of the user .

[0037] - The sensors ( 1 ) and the microcontroller have a power panel ( 2 ) that provides energy.

[0038] In an embodiment of the invention, the temperature sensors ( 1 ) include at least one of the thermistor, digital temperature sensor, infrared ( IR) based sensor, microthermal detector or thermal camera sensors .

[0039] In an embodiment of the invention, the temperature sensors ( 1 ) are fixed with elements such as sewing, strong bonding or elastic bands .

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the temperature sensors ( 1 ) are coated with a special coating with high infrared radiation transmittance and comprise an insulating layer for protection against sweat and outdoor conditions .

[0041] In an embodiment of the invention, the communication module transmits data using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for low power consumption and short-distance connections .

[0042] In an embodiment of the invention, the communication module operates using Wi-Fi for faster data transmission and broadband requirements .

[0043] In an embodiment of the invention, the communication module transmits data using at least one of the low-power communication protocols such as LoRa, Sigfox or NB-IoT for long-distance connections .In an embodiment of the invention, the communication module transmits data via the LTE or 5G connection in scenarios that require real-time analysis over the cloud .

[0044] In an embodiment of the invention, the communication module supports short-distance data transfer technologies such as NFC or RFID in certain use cases .

[0045] In an embodiment of the invention, the wearable textile material is produced from a polyester-elastane mixture fabric that provides high elasticity and durability.

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, a modular structure is provided to the electronic components in the garment so that they can be removed and replaced .

[0047] In an embodiment of the invention, the material used for the clothing is in the form of perforated knitting .

[0048] There is a method that instantaneously measures muscle thermography during exercise .

[0049] - Muscle surface temperatures are measured through at least one pair of infrared temperature sensors ( 1 ) placed at certain anatomical points in the opposing limbs .

[0050] The temperature data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) is processed by the microcontroller .

[0051] The processed temperature data is transmitted to the terminal device through the wireless communication module . In the terminal device, bilateral temperature differences are compared to the determined reference values .

[0052] If the temperature difference exceeds the threshold value, a notification is sent to the user .In an embodiment of the invention, the data obtained from the temperature sensors ( 1 ) is processed locally by an embedded system comprising a microcontroller or microprocessor .

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention, a warning message is sent to the terminal device of the user by comparing the temperature differences with the determined threshold values in the local processing method .

[0054] In an embodiment of the invention, the temperature data collected from the sensors ( 1 ) is transmitted to a central computer, tablet or cloud server using a wireless connection .

[0055] In an embodiment of the invention, the data in the central processing method is evaluated by big data analysis and machine learning methods for long-term health monitoring and advanced analysis .

[0056] In an embodiment of the invention, the data is processed both locally and centrally.

[0057] In an embodiment of the invention, the system offers a personalized exercise program according to the collected user data .

[0058] In an embodiment of the invention, information is provided with mobile app notifications, vibrating feedbacks on a smartwatch or a wristband, audible alerts or instant notification messages when a risk of injury to the user is detected .

[0059] One advantage of the invention is its ability to collect data under natural training conditions without requiring the athletes to be in a stationary environment .Another advantage of the invention is that it can accurately analyze temperature differences using the sensors ( 1 ) located at the same anatomical points in the opposing limbs .

[0060] Description of the Figures

[0061] Figure-1 : A view showing the positions of the sensors ( 1 ) in the rear view of the human body (Hamstring Muscle Group Sections )

[0062] Figure-2 : A view showing the positions of the sensors ( 1 ) in the front view of the human body (Quadriceps Muscle Group Sections )

[0063] Figure-3 : Tights in which the sensors ( 1 ) are placed in the rear view of the human body (Hamstring Muscle Group) Figure-4 : Tights in which the sensors ( 1 ) are placed in the front (Quadriceps Muscle Group)

[0064] Description of Reference Numbers in Figures

[0065] 1 . Sensor

[0066] 2 . Power panel

Claims

CLAIMS1. A wearable system capable of instantaneously measuring muscle thermography during exercise and track temperature changes while in motion, characterized in that the system comprises :- at least one pair of infrared thermal sensors ( 1 ) placed on symmetrical points in the bilateral muscle groups of the human body,- a microcontroller that can perform instant evaluation by processing temperature data,- a communication module that can wirelessly transmit the data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) to the terminal device,- a data processing module capable of processing and visualizing temperature data,- a flexible wearable textile material that contains the sensors ( 1 ) and electronic components and does not restrict the mobility of the user,- sensors ( 1 ) and a power panel (2 ) that provides energy to the microcontroller .2 . A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the temperature sensors ( 1 ) comprise at least one of the thermistor, digital temperature sensor, infrared ( IR) based sensor, microthermal detector or thermal camera sensors .

3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensors ( 1 ) are fixed with elements such as sewing, strong bonding or elastic bands .4 . A system according to claim 1 , comprising an insulating layer that provides protection against sweat and outdoorconditions by coating the temperature sensors ( 1 ) with a high special coating with infrared radiation transmittance .

5. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the communication module comprises a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection for low-power consumption and short-distance connections .

6. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the communication module comprises a Wi-Fi connection for faster data transmission and broadband requirements .

7. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the communication module transmits data using at least one of the communication protocols with low-power consumption such as LoRa, Sigfox or NB-IoT for long-distance connections .

8. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the communication module can transfer data over the LTE or 5G connection in scenarios that require real-time analysis over the cloud.

9. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the communication module supports short-distance data transfer technologies such as NFC or RFID in certain use cases .

10. A system according to claim 1, wherein the wearable textile material consists of a polyester-elastane mixture fabric that provides high elasticity and durability.

11. A system according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic components in the garment have a removable and replaceable modular structure with a zipper, velcro or magnetic connection.

12. A system according to claim 1, wherein the garment is in the form of a perforated knitting .

13. A method that instantaneously measures muscle thermography during exercise, comprising the following process steps :- measuring muscle surface temperatures through at least one pair of infrared temperature sensors ( 1 ) placed on the equivalent muscle groups in the symmetrical limbs, - processing the temperature data obtained from the sensors ( 1 ) by the microcontroller,- transmitting the processed temperature data to the terminal device through the wireless communication module,- comparing the bilateral temperature differences to the determined reference values in the terminal device, - sending a notification to the user if the temperature difference exceeds the threshold value .

14. A method according to claim 13, wherein the data obtained from the temperature sensors ( 1 ) is processed locally by an embedded system comprising a microcontroller or microprocessor .

15. A method according to claim 14 , wherein the temperature differences are compared with the determined threshold values in the local processing method and a warning message is sent to the user ' s terminal device .

16. A method according to claim 13, wherein the temperature data collected from the sensors ( 1 ) is transmitted to a central computer, tablet or cloud server using a wireless connection .

17. A method according to claim 16, wherein the centrally processed data is evaluated by big data analysis and machine learning methods for long-term health monitoring and advanced analysis .

18. A method according to claim 14 and claim 15 , wherein the data is processed both locally and centrally.

19. A method according to claim 13, wherein the user is informed with mobile app notifications , vibrating feedback on a smartwatch or a wristband, audible alerts or instant notification messages when a risk of injury is detected .

20. A method according to claim 13 , wherein the method offers personalized exercise recommendations according to the collected user data .

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