Force Measurement System with Surrounding Visual Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force measurement systems are cumbersome and unable to immerse subjects in virtual reality environments, posing space constraints and limitations in simulating real-life scenarios effectively.
Innovation Solution
A force measurement system comprising a force measurement assembly with force transducers, a visual display device that surrounds the subject, and data processing devices to create immersive virtual environments, allowing dynamic adjustments of treadmill components based on visual elements and user interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional force measurement systems are used, then force measurement capability is provided, but the system occupies considerable floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the force measurement assembly with a visual display device to create an integrated system that provides both force measurement capabilities and virtual reality immersion in a compact configuration, eliminating the need for separate large-scale equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The force measurement system is designed to perform multiple functions including force measurement, virtual reality display, and interactive simulation, allowing a single compact system to replace multiple specialized devices that would otherwise require considerable space
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional force measurement systems are used, then force measurement is enabled, but the system cannot immerse subjects in virtual reality environments
Solution Approach 1:
The visual display device is integrated with the force measurement assembly, merging previously separate functions into a unified compact system that delivers both force measurement and virtual reality immersion without requiring additional space
3Adaptability or versatility
If the visual display device surrounds the subject, then full virtual reality immersion is achieved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The data processing device serves as a central hub that coordinates between the force measurement assembly and the visual display device, simplifying the overall system architecture by consolidating control functions rather than requiring multiple independent complex systems
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 while being compact enough to fit in typical spaces, effectively simulating real-life scenarios and enhancing user interaction within the virtual environment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one force transducer, the 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 configured to at least partially circumscribe three sides of a torso of 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.