Circumferential EMG Sensor Array for Shift Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable EMG sensor technologies are limited in their ability to provide continuous, unobtrusive, and accurate monitoring of human motion and muscle activity for extended periods, particularly in applications such as sports, fitness, medical diagnostics, and artistic purposes, due to limitations in sensor placement and data accuracy caused by physical shifting and rotation.
Innovation Solution
A wearable circumferential array of electromyographic (EMG) sensors with multiple rings and columns is designed to be worn around body members like the arm, wrist, or leg, allowing for accurate neuromuscular activity monitoring by assigning different sensing roles to sensors and using pattern recognition to correct for physical shifts, enhancing data accuracy and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single EMG sensor is used for monitoring, then the device simplicity is maintained, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to physical shifting and rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single sensor into multiple sensors arranged in a circumferential array around the body member. This segmentation allows the system to capture muscle activity from multiple angles and positions, compensating for physical shifting and rotation, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring a complex multi-device system
Solution Approach 2:
The circumferential array of EMG sensors serves multiple functions: it monitors muscle activity accurately, detects device displacement, and provides redundant measurement capabilities. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate monitoring systems
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are arranged in a circumferential array, then the measurement precision improves by correcting for physical shifts, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-point measurement to a circumferential distribution of sensors around the body member. This dimensional change from 0D (point) to 1D (circumferential line) allows the system to capture spatial variations in sensor position and orientation, improving reliability by providing multiple measurement perspectives
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses data from multiple sensors in the circumferential array to detect displacements and rotations of the device. This feedback information is then used to correct measurement errors and maintain accurate muscle activity monitoring despite physical movement, thereby improving data reliability
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 configuration enables continuous, accurate monitoring of human motion and muscle activity, improving data accuracy and usability across various applications by accounting for physical shifts and rotations, thus enhancing user experience and data reliability.
Implementation Method 1
Electromyographic (EMG) sensors collect electromagnetic energy data concerning the activity of a person's muscles and the motor neurons which innervate these muscles
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is a wearable circumferential array of electromyographic (EMG) sensors with a plurality of rings and columns of sensors which collect electromagnetic energy data concerning neuromuscular activity and functions as a Human-to-Computer Interface (HCI). In an example, it can be incorporated into a wearable device or clothing accessory such as an arm band, wrist band, finger ring, leg band, ankle band, bracelet, or watch strap. In an example, it can be incorporated into the cuff or sleeve of an article of clothing such as a shirt or a pair of shorts.