6-DOF Sensor Module for Biometric Motion Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable devices for tracking physical exertion parameters are limited in the range, type, and quality of data they provide, often relying on simple accelerometers that only track steps, distance, and calories burned, without comprehensive real-time analysis and comparison features.
Innovation Solution
A 6-DOF sensor module that interfaces with proprietary algorithms, enabling tracking of advanced human motion parameters, such as sprint times, jumps, and cardio assessments, with real-time analysis and data upload capabilities via Bluetooth to smartphones or cloud-based systems, allowing users to compare their performance with top athletes and friends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If simple accelerometers are used for tracking physical activity, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the range and quality of biometric data collected is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple sensor types (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, barometer, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, light sensor, proximity sensor) into a single universal sensor module that can track diverse biometric parameters including steps, distance, calories, heart rate, temperature, humidity, and environmental conditions, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Productivity
If comprehensive real-time analysis and comparison features are added to wearable devices, then user engagement and fitness tracking effectiveness are enhanced, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a smartphone or cloud-based system as an intermediary that performs complex data analysis, performance comparison, and detailed tracking operations. The wearable device itself remains relatively simple, while the intermediary handles the computationally intensive tasks of real-time analysis, comparison with top athletes, and generation of fitness insights, thereby enhancing productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensor types and real-time processing capabilities are integrated, then measurement precision and data quality are improved, but use of energy and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic sampling and intermittent data transmission rather than continuous high-rate processing. The sensor module collects biometric data continuously but transmits information periodically to the smartphone or cloud system, and performs processing at intervals rather than in real-time continuously. This periodic approach maintains measurement precision while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous processing
Data Source
AI summary
A universal 6-DOF mems sensor combined with six degree of motion algorithms and human motion parameters permits individualized real time motion analysis of a user to enable accurate measurements. Data derived thereby is wirelessly sent for viewing to a Bluetooth® enabled smartphone or combination smartphone and eyeglass device, such as the Google Glass® headset. The sensor is worn on a wrist or ankle band or in combination with a chest mounted cardio heart rate monitor dependent on the biometric parameters measured. Typical physical exercise data gathered includes reps, sets, 10-100 yard dash times, vertical, horizontal and broad jump distances, a range of shuttle times, RAST, steps taken, distance traveled, velocity, acceleration, and calories burned. The heart rate monitor provides cardio assessment and the 6-DOF sensor measures a runner's pace and cadence data.