Fatigue Time Determination Using External Parameter Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining fatigue time in activities like driving or working are inaccurate as they do not account for individual variations and external parameters, leading to potential accidents and reduced productivity due to fatigue.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that calculates an actual fatigue time (AFT) based on a standard fatigue time (SFT) and external parameters, using sensors and bio-sensors to monitor biological signals and adjust the fatigue time according to factors like road conditions, vehicle type, and climatic conditions, generating a work schedule with on-time and off-time durations to prevent fatigue.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a standard fatigue time is used for all individuals performing an activity, then the system is simple to implement, but the accuracy of fatigue determination is poor due to individual variations and external parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefatigue time determination accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adjusts the standard fatigue time by applying correction factors based on multiple parameters including individual characteristics (age, gender, fitness level) and external conditions (weather, traffic, road conditions). This transforms a fixed parameter into a dynamic one that adapts to specific situations, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complete redesign of the system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a fatigue index as an intermediary parameter that quantifies the combined effect of multiple factors on fatigue. This index serves as a mediator between the complex set of individual and environmental parameters and the final fatigue time determination, simplifying the overall system while improving accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If frequent breaks are taken during continuous activity, then fatigue risk is reduced, but productivity decreases due to interruption of work flow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety against fatigue-related accidentsVSAvoidwork output
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic monitoring of fatigue indicators and schedules breaks based on detected fatigue levels rather than fixed intervals. This allows work to continue at full productivity when fatigue is low, while automatically introducing rest periods when fatigue indicators exceed thresholds, thus balancing safety and productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors fatigue-related parameters (heart rate, reaction time, eye movement) and provides feedback to adjust break timing dynamically. This feedback mechanism ensures breaks are taken only when necessary to prevent fatigue, maintaining productivity during low-risk periods while ensuring safety when fatigue risk increases

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10282959B2Fatigue time determination for an activity
Publication Date: 2019.05.07 TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES LTD
  • US10282959B2 patent drawing
  • US10282959B2 patent drawing
  • US10282959B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for determining an actual fatigue time (AFT) for an activity are provided. The method comprises receiving a standard fatigue time (SFT) representing a time duration. The SFT is indicative of an onset of fatigue in individuals upon continuously performing the activity. The method further comprises receiving at least one external parameter and a fatigue index corresponding to the at least one external parameter. The at least one external parameter and the fatigue index are associated with the activity. The method further comprises determining the AFT for the activity based upon the SFT and the fatigue index.