Force Measurement System with Overhanging Display for VR Immersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force measurement systems are difficult to accommodate in limited spaces and are not capable of effectively immersing subjects in virtual reality environments, which are essential for simulating real-life scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A force measurement system comprising a force measurement assembly with a top surface for receiving a subject's body, at least one force transducer to sense applied forces, a visual display device to create a virtual reality environment, and data processing devices to control displacements based on the forces and virtual elements, allowing for immersive experiences while being compact enough for typical spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement systems are used, then force measurement capability is provided, but the system occupies excessive floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the force measurement assembly with a virtual reality display system into an integrated unit. The force plate is positioned within or adjacent to the display structure, allowing both force measurement and immersive visual display functions to occupy the same spatial footprint, thereby reducing the overall floor space requirement while maintaining force measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The force measurement system is designed to operate effectively in three-dimensional space rather than requiring extensive two-dimensional floor area. The force plate can be positioned at an angle or in a configuration that utilizes vertical and depth dimensions, allowing the system to provide comprehensive force measurement without occupying a large rectangular floor footprint.
2Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement systems are used, then force measurement capability is provided, but the system cannot effectively immerse subjects in virtual reality environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a virtual reality display system directly with the force measurement assembly. The display structure is positioned to provide immersive visual experiences to subjects while they remain on the force plate, combining force measurement and virtual reality functionality into a single unified system that maintains both capabilities without requiring separate equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The force measurement system is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides force measurement capabilities while simultaneously supporting virtual reality immersion. The system can accommodate various virtual reality scenarios and applications while maintaining its core force measurement function, making it a versatile platform for both research and practical applications.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact force measurement system is designed, then floor space requirement is reduced, but the system may not provide sufficient immersive visual display
Solution Approach 1:
The visual display system utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to provide immersive experiences within a compact footprint. The display structure can be configured in vertical or depth-oriented arrangements rather than requiring extensive horizontal space, allowing the system to deliver comprehensive virtual reality immersion while occupying minimal floor area.
Solution Approach 2:
The display structure may employ curved or spherical surface configurations that provide immersive visual experiences more effectively within limited spaces. Curved display surfaces can wrap around or surround the subject, providing 360-degree or near-360-degree visual immersion without requiring the same floor space as traditional planar display arrangements.
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
Enables full immersion in virtual reality scenarios while being compact enough to fit in most building spaces, allowing for effective force measurement and simulation of real-life scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
at least one force transducer configured to sense one or more measured quantities and output one or more signals that are representative of forces and/or moments being applied to the top surface of the force measurement assembly by the subject
Data Source
AI summary
A force measurement system includes a force measurement assembly with a top surface configured to receive at least one portion of the body of a subject and at least one force transducer configured to sense forces and/or moments being applied to the top surface; at least one visual display device having an output screen, the output screen comprising an overhanging top portion so that a top edge of the output screen is not readily visible to the subject; and one or more data processing devices operatively coupled to the force measurement assembly and the at least one visual display device. In one or more embodiments, the force measurement assembly may be in the form of an instrumented treadmill. In one or more further embodiments, the force measurement system may additionally comprise a motion capture system configured to detect the motion of one or more body gestures of the subject.