Force Sensor Anchoring Module for Resistance Band Exercise Quantification
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no known method to effectively track progress or quantify the force applied during exercises using resistance bands, which limits the optimization of muscle rehabilitation and fitness training.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an anchoring module with a clamping mechanism and an electronics module equipped with sensors to measure and process data on force, motion, and other exercise metrics, allowing for the quantification and display of user performance during exercises with resistance bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If resistance bands are used for exercise and physical therapy, then fitness training and muscle rehabilitation can be performed, but there is no method to track progress or quantify the force applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking methods with electronic sensors and digital processing systems. Force sensors, accelerometers, and other electronic measurement devices are integrated into the resistance band system to automatically capture and quantify exercise data, eliminating the need for manual tracking while providing precise force measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that includes a processor, memory, and communication module. This intermediary layer receives raw sensor data, processes it to extract meaningful exercise metrics, and transmits the quantified information to external devices for display and analysis, bridging the gap between simple resistance bands and comprehensive tracking capabilities.
2Loss of information
If sensors and electronics are integrated into the resistance band system, then user performance can be quantified, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional integrated system where a single electronic module performs multiple functions: housing sensors, processing data, storing information, and enabling wireless communication. This universal approach consolidates what could be separate complex components into one unified unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive data capture capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sensor array, processing unit, memory storage, and communication interface into a single integrated electronic module that attaches to the resistance band. By combining these functions into one cohesive unit rather than distributing them across multiple separate components, the system achieves comprehensive performance tracking without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a clamping mechanism is used to secure the resistance band, then the anchoring module can be removably attached, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service clamping mechanism that automatically secures itself to the resistance band through spring-loaded or cam-actuated action. The clamping system requires minimal user intervention to engage and can be quickly released with a simple trigger or button press, providing ease of operation without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable or replaceable anchoring module design where the clamping mechanism can be easily replaced if worn or damaged. This approach uses simpler, less durable but easier-to-manufacture clamping components that can be quickly swapped out, reducing the complexity of making the entire system highly durable while maintaining ease of operation.
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 dynamic and efficient physical therapy, improves adherence to therapy, and provides data for monitoring progress, which can be used in clinical and home settings, alleviating the burden on healthcare systems and enhancing fitness tracking.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (e.g., a force sensor) configured to generate a signal representative of a user's performance during exercise or physical therapy (e.g., including force applied by the user)
Implementation Method 2
a clamping mechanism that includes at least one spring-loaded cam cleat configured for removably securing the anchoring module to an object
Data Source
AI summary
A system for quantification of exercise and physical therapy includes an anchoring module and an electronics module. The anchoring module is removably attached to an object (e.g., a flexible resistive band) or equipped with a clamping mechanism for removably securing the object. The anchoring module also includes an anchoring-module coupling fixture. At least one of the modules includes a sensor (e.g., a force sensor) configured to generate a signal representative of a user's performance during exercise or physical therapy; a processor configured to receive signals from the force sensor; a computer storage medium storing software code and in communication with the processor, wherein the software code includes instruction for processing the signals from the force sensor to quantify the performance; and at least one electronics-module coupling fixture configured to secure the electronics module to the anchoring module coupling fixture.