EMG Sensor Based Adaptive Scaling Control for Input Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices rely on static scaling factors, which are not suitable for applications requiring fine control and responsive controls, as they do not adapt to the user's specific task demands, leading to suboptimal performance and user experience.
Innovation Solution
The integration of electromyography (EMG) sensors to detect muscle coactivation and adjust controller sensitivity automatically, using a pair of EMG sensors associated with opposing muscles, and optionally other biometric values, to dynamically change the scaling between control input and output without user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static scaling factor is used in the input device, then the touch and feel is predictable, but the device cannot adapt to different user needs for fine control versus responsive control
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts the scaling factor by detecting muscle coactivation through EMG sensors and processing the signal through multiple stages (rectification, filtering, envelope detection, threshold comparison) to generate a scaling adjustment signal without requiring manual user input or calibration
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses EMG sensors to detect muscle coactivation levels and feeds this information back to dynamically adjust the scaling factor, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to the user's physical state in real-time
2Measurement precision
If manual calibration or prior knowledge of the task is required, then the control can be precisely tuned, but the user experience is degraded and setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic calibration by detecting muscle coactivation patterns and adjusting the scaling factor in advance, eliminating the need for manual calibration procedures and allowing the user to begin using the device immediately without setup time
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines the appropriate scaling factor by processing EMG signals through rectification, filtering, envelope detection, and threshold comparison to generate scaling adjustment signals without requiring user intervention
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
This solution enables adaptive controller sensitivity, improving precision and safety in various applications by automatically adjusting based on muscle coactivation levels, enhancing user experience and performance without requiring manual calibration or prior knowledge of the task.
Implementation Method 1
an electromyogram is generated based on the detected muscle coactivation
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device may include an EMG sensor to be coupled to a user. The electronic device may include a control device configured to generate a control output based upon a control input and to change a scaling between the control input and the control output based upon the EMG sensor. The EMG sensor may include a pair of EMG sensors, with each EMG sensor being associated with a respective one of opposing muscles of the user.