Electrode Force-Sensing Platform for Real-Time Balance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring human stability and balance are not sufficiently sensitive, time-consuming, or uncomfortable, lacking comprehensive, quantitative assessments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising top electrodes, force-sensing sheets, and read out circuitry to determine balance metrics, utilizing force sensors and machine learning algorithms for real-time, quantitative balance analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wearable sensors are used to measure balance, then real-time measurement is achieved, but comfort and measurement accuracy deteriorate due to movement artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wearable mechanical sensors with a force-sensing platform system. Instead of attaching sensors to the body that move with the user, the system uses a stationary platform with force-sensing resistors embedded in the surface. This substitution eliminates movement artifacts while maintaining real-time measurement capability through electrical sensing of ground reaction forces.
2Ease of operation
If static tests are used to assess balance, then simplicity is maintained, but measurement sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static balance assessment to dynamic measurement. The force-sensing platform captures real-time, continuous data during movement and weight shifting activities. This dynamic approach maintains operational simplicity while dramatically improving sensitivity by measuring actual balance adjustments and ground reaction forces during functional tasks rather than static positions.
3Measurement precision
If dynamic tests are used to improve balance assessment, then measurement comprehensiveness is improved, but time consumption and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous, automated data collection during natural movement. Instead of discrete, time-consuming test protocols, the force-sensing platform continuously records force vector data as users perform functional tasks. This continuous measurement approach provides comprehensive balance assessment data without extending test duration, as the system captures all relevant information during the user's natural movement pattern.
4Measurement precision
If force-sensing sheets with electrode patterns are used, then measurement comprehensiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the force-sensing platform into multiple discrete sensing zones with electrode patterns. Each segment measures local force distribution independently, and the controller aggregates these segmented measurements to create a comprehensive force map. This segmentation provides detailed measurement data while keeping individual sensor elements simple and manageable.
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
Provides real-time, objective, and accurate balance metrics, enabling comprehensive assessments suitable for various applications, including athletics, gaming, and healthcare, with visual feedback and predictive analytics.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the force-sensors exhibit electrical properties that respond proportionally to an applied force from the user
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for measuring a user's balance and stability in various situations are described. An example system includes a sporting surface and a plurality of top electrodes configured to support a user. Each top electrode is disposed beneath the sporting surface. The system also includes at least one bottom electrode and at least one force-sensing sheet between the top electrodes and the bottom electrode(s) to form a plurality of force sensors. Each force sensor provides an electrical signal proportional to an applied force from the user. The system includes read out circuitry configured to obtain sensor data from the force sensors. The system additionally includes a controller having a memory. The memory is configured to store the sensor data and program instructions executable by the controller to perform operations. The operations include determining, based on the sensor data, a balance metric corresponding to the user.