Center of Gravity Control Support Device Using Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for center of gravity control in standing postures require electrode attachment, which is bothersome and troublesome for users.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a center of gravity measurement unit, a tactile stimulation signal generation unit, and a tactile stimulation presentation unit that applies tactile stimulation to the user's sole when the center of gravity deviates from a predetermined range, using strain gauges and thermal stimulation to induce a flexion reflex without electrode attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical stimulation is used to control posture, then center of gravity control effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases due to electrode attachment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrode attachment requirement from the electrical stimulation system and replaces it with a tactile stimulation presentation unit that uses vibration motors or similar devices. This removes the complex electrode attachment step while maintaining the core functionality of stimulating the user to correct posture deviations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrical stimulation mechanism with a mechanical/tactile stimulation mechanism. Instead of using electrical currents through electrodes, the system uses tactile feedback through vibration or pressure applied to the user's body, thereby eliminating the need for electrical contact while achieving similar postural correction effects.
2Loss of information
If display or sound feedback is used to notify the user, then information feedback is provided, but visual and auditory sensations are blocked which interferes with work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual and auditory feedback systems with a tactile feedback system. Instead of using displays or sounds that occupy sensory channels needed for work, the system uses tactile stimulation through vibration or pressure on the user's body, delivering feedback information through the somatosensory system without interfering with visual or auditory tasks.
3Loss of information
If vibration notification is used to alert the user, then posture correction feedback is provided, but cognitive load increases as the user must consciously respond
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the tactile stimulation unit directly stimulates the user's sensory receptors to trigger automatic postural correction reflexes. The user's body automatically responds to the tactile feedback without requiring conscious cognitive processing, thereby reducing cognitive load while maintaining effective posture correction.
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
Enables effective center of gravity control without the need for electrode attachment, reducing cognitive load and visual or auditory interference, allowing users to maintain a balanced posture without discomfort.
Implementation Method 1
a tactile stimulation presentation unit configured to convert the tactile stimulation signal into tactile stimulation and present the tactile stimulation to a sole of a foot of the user
Implementation Method 2
a center of gravity measurement unit configured to measure a change in a center of gravity position of a standing posture of a user
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes: a center of gravity measurement unit 10 configured to measure a change in a center of gravity position of a standing posture of a user; a tactile stimulation signal generation unit 20 configured to, in a case where the center of gravity position deviates from a predetermined range, generate a tactile stimulation signal for applying tactile stimulation to the user; and a tactile stimulation presentation unit 30 configured to convert the tactile stimulation signal into tactile stimulation and present the tactile stimulation to a sole of a foot of the user.