Dual Force Plate System for Accurate Balance Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force measurement systems for balance assessment, such as balance plates, are cumbersome and difficult to transport due to their weight and require multiple plates for independent measurements, which can lead to inaccuracies and complications for patients with balance disorders.
Innovation Solution
A dual force plate system with two independent measurement surfaces that are integrated into a single, lightweight unit with a low profile, utilizing force transducer elements and a data processing device to measure loads applied to each surface and the interaction between them, allowing for accurate balance assessment without the need for multiple plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two separate balance plates are used for independent measurements under each foot, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate balance plates into a single integrated force plate with two measurement surfaces. The first measurement surface receives a first portion of the subject's body and the second measurement surface receives a second portion, with each surface having independent force transducers. This combining approach maintains the ability to make independent measurements under each foot while reducing device complexity and improving portability.
2Measurement precision
If two separate balance plates are used for independent measurements, then independent leg weight measurement is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to risk of mixing signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate measurement systems into one integrated unit where the first and second measurement surfaces are part of the same force plate. The data processing device receives signals from both surfaces and can independently process left and right leg measurements, eliminating the risk of mixing signals that occurs when using separate plates. The unified design simplifies operation while maintaining measurement independence.
3Stability of the object's composition
If force measuring feet are placed underneath the balance plate surface, then structural stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to increased height
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional design where force measuring feet are positioned vertically underneath the plate to a design where the measurement surfaces are integrated into the top surface of the force plate. The force transducer elements are arranged to measure forces applied to the measurement surfaces while maintaining a low profile, reducing the vertical dimension and making it easier for patients to step on and off the plate.
4Weight of moving object
If a single force plate with multiple measurement surfaces is used, then portability is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to integrated structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force plate into distinct measurement surfaces with independent force transducer elements. Each measurement surface has its own set of force transducers that independently measure forces applied to that surface. This segmentation allows the integrated plate to maintain measurement precision comparable to separate plates while achieving the portability benefits of a unified structure.
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 dual force plate system provides accurate and portable balance assessment, reducing the complexity and weight of equipment while facilitating easier use for patients with balance disorders by integrating two measurement surfaces into a single, low-profile unit.
Implementation Method 1
a first force transducer element operatively coupled to either the first opposed surface of the first plate component or to one of the lateral surfaces of the first plate component, the first force transducer element configured to output at least one first quantity that is representative of a load being applied to the first measurement surface
Data Source
AI summary
A force measurement assembly includes a first component supported by a first load measuring device and having a first measurement surface; a second component supported by a second load measuring device, spaced apart from the first component by a gap, and having a second measurement surface; and a third load measuring device operatively coupled to both the first component and the second component; wherein the first load measurement device is configured to output at least one first quantity that is representative of the load being applied to the first measurement surface, the second load measurement device is configured to output at least one second quantity that is representative of the load being applied to the second measurement surface, and the third load measuring device is configured to output at least one third quantity that is representative of a load being transferred between the first component and the second component.