Body Position Assessment Device with Real-Time Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring and analyzing the stability and control of body parts are labor-intensive, prone to errors, require expensive equipment, and often necessitate skilled technicians, making them inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
An assessment device comprising a sensing device, controller, and input/output devices that measure angles relative to predefined axes, providing real-time feedback and allowing for user-defined orientations and threshold settings, enabling precise monitoring and training of body positions and movements without extensive setup or bulky equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement techniques (measuring tape, ruler, spirit level, marker-based motion capture) are used to measure body part stability and control, then measurement capability is provided, but the process becomes labor-intensive and requires skilled technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (measuring tape, ruler, spirit level) and skilled technician operations with an automated electronic assessment device. The device uses sensors to detect body part positions and orientations, processes data automatically through a controller, and provides real-time feedback without requiring manual measurement or skilled technician intervention, thereby eliminating labor intensity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment device enables users to perform self-assessment of body part stability and control without requiring skilled technicians. The device includes user-friendly interfaces for setting parameters, automatic data processing, and real-time feedback mechanisms that allow individuals to independently monitor and evaluate their own body part positions, orientations, and movements.
2Measurement precision
If conventional measurement techniques are used to evaluate body part stability, then measurement is possible, but expensive equipment and capital expenditure are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cost-effective sensors and electronic components that can be mass-produced and are significantly cheaper than conventional expensive equipment like marker-based motion capture systems. The device uses standard electronic parts, microcontrollers, and sensors that can be manufactured at low cost while providing equivalent or superior measurement capabilities for body part stability assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment device is designed as a multi-functional system that can evaluate various body parts (arms, legs, trunk) and measure multiple parameters (position, orientation, stability, control) using a single integrated platform. This eliminates the need for multiple separate expensive measurement tools and systems, reducing overall equipment cost while maintaining comprehensive measurement precision.
3Reliability
If conventional techniques require skilled technicians to operate and interpret measurements, then accurate assessment is achieved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms that automatically process sensor data and provide immediate results to the user. The controller continuously monitors body part positions and orientations, compares them against reference values or user-defined criteria, and provides instant feedback through displays or alerts. This automated feedback loop eliminates the need for skilled technician interpretation while maintaining assessment accuracy through computer-based analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment device uses digital copies and representations of body part positions and movements captured by sensors. Instead of requiring skilled technicians to physically measure and interpret anatomical positions, the system creates electronic models of body part orientations and compares them automatically against stored reference data or user-defined parameters, simplifying operation while maintaining reliability through computational analysis.
4Measurement precision
If manual measurement and observation methods are used to monitor body part stability, then assessment is possible, but significant time is required for setup and measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary calibration and setup automatically before assessment begins. The controller pre-configures measurement parameters, establishes reference values for body part positions and orientations, and prepares sensors for immediate operation. This automated preliminary action eliminates time-consuming manual setup procedures while ensuring measurement precision through computer-based calibration and configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment device enables continuous monitoring of body part stability and control without interruption. Sensors continuously capture position and orientation data, the controller continuously processes this information, and feedback is provided in real-time throughout the assessment period. This eliminates the need for repeated manual measurements and setup operations, reducing total time required while maintaining continuous assessment capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enables efficient, accurate, and user-friendly monitoring and training of body positions and movements, reducing the need for costly equipment and skilled technicians while improving precision and reducing setup time.
Implementation Method 1
an inclinometer that measures angles along one or more axes with respect to a sensor orientation defined by gravity
Data Source
AI summary
An assessment device is provided which allows for measurement of a position of interest, e.g., a body part, while a subject is in a functional position, such as may be required for the demands of an activity of interest without also requiring a lengthy setup time, tethered connection to other equipment external to the subject or tedious manual measurements. Moreover, an indicator such as an alarm or other output may be provided for receiving immediate, real time feedback, such as when a functional activity falls outside a tolerance or threshold.