Functional Capacity Evaluation System with Adjustable Force Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current functional capacity evaluation systems are inadequate in accurately determining maximal effort during lifting tests, as they are often subjective, complex, and fail to measure force distribution between the patient's legs and hands, leading to unreliable data and potential manipulation of results.
Innovation Solution
A functional capacity evaluation system that includes adjustable sensors to measure velocity, acceleration, and force distribution, with a control module and electronic device for data collection and processing, allowing for objective assessment of lifting abilities and maximal effort, and featuring a lifting box with adjustable orientation to mimic real-world lifting conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If subjective indicators (mechanical breakdown, postural breakdown, heart rate) are used to determine maximal effort, then the evaluation can be performed with simple equipment, but the measurement precision and reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual assessment with objective electronic sensors that automatically measure acceleration, velocity, and force distribution. The control module processes sensor data to generate maximal effort determinations, eliminating the need for evaluator interpretation of mechanical breakdown or postural breakdown indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-assessment by automatically collecting data from sensors, processing it through the control module, and generating evaluation results without requiring external interpretation. The electronic device autonomously determines maximal effort based on measured parameters, reducing dependency on evaluator expertise.
2Reliability
If force distribution measurement is added to assess functional capacity, then the reliability and diagnostic value improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The force distribution sensors serve multiple functions: they measure weight bearing on each leg during lifting, assess balance and symmetry, provide diagnostic information about lower extremity pathology, and contribute to the overall maximal effort determination. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive evaluation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The force distribution measurement acts as an intermediary objective indicator that bridges the gap between subjective clinical assessment and purely mechanical measurement. By quantifying weight bearing patterns, the system provides actionable data that enhances diagnostic reliability without requiring complex interpretation protocols.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and adjustable components are added to measure velocity, acceleration, and force distribution, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation and setup time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting structure allows dynamic adjustment of sensor positions and orientations to accommodate different patient anatomies and lifting configurations. The adjustable arms enable the system to adapt to various lift types (floor-to-shoulder, floor-to-waist, etc.) while maintaining precise measurement alignment, thereby preserving ease of operation despite multiple sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module continuously monitors sensor data and provides real-time feedback on measurement quality. This feedback mechanism helps operators verify proper sensor alignment and functioning, reducing setup complexity by automatically compensating for minor positioning variations and guiding users through the setup process.
4Reliability
If objective measurement systems are implemented to prevent result manipulation, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces subjective evaluator judgment with objective sensor-based measurement that automatically captures acceleration, velocity, and force distribution data. This substitution eliminates the possibility of result manipulation through subjective interpretation, as the measurements are directly recorded by electronic sensors and processed algorithmically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an objective digital record of the lifting performance that serves as a verifiable copy of the actual physical event. By capturing and storing sensor data, the system produces an immutable record that cannot be manipulated, providing authentic evidence of functional capacity that can be reviewed and verified independently.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for testing the ability of an individual to lift objects under various conditions. During standard lifting tests, the average acceleration and velocity of each lift, as well as the distribution of force between the hands and feet of the patient, are electronically measured and recorded. These objective factors can then be used to determine whether the patient is exerting maximal effort, and to assess a patient's condition and progress during a rehabilitation program. In example embodiments, one or more components of the system are adjustable so as to accommodate users of various posture, mechanics, size and movement capabilities.