Gait Measurement System Sole Position Warning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In gait training systems, the load distribution sensor installed under the treadmill belt makes it difficult to detect when a patient's sole deviates from the proper position during training, as the relationship between the sole's position and the sensor area is not visible from outside, hindering real-time feedback and correction.
Innovation Solution
A gait state measurement system that includes an acquisition unit for load distribution data, a position estimation unit to determine the sole's position, and a warning control unit to provide staged warnings based on the sole's position relative to defined target areas, ensuring the patient or therapist is promptly notified of deviations and can correct the position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the load distribution sensor is installed under the treadmill belt, then the gait state can be measured, but the position relationship between the sole and sensor area cannot be recognized from outside
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of cameras and image processing algorithms that capture and analyze the position of the sole relative to the sensor area. This intermediary allows the position relationship information to be obtained indirectly through visual capture and processing, resolving the contradiction between maintaining sensor installation under the belt and obtaining position information.
2Reliability
If the load distribution sensor is installed independently under the belt, then the sensor area is protected from wear, but real-time feedback on sole position deviation cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the captured images are processed in real-time to determine the position of the sole, and warnings are immediately provided when deviation is detected. This continuous feedback loop ensures timely notification of position deviation while maintaining the protective installation of the sensor under the belt.
3Device complexity
If no position monitoring is implemented, then the system structure remains simple, but the accuracy and safety of gait training deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position monitoring mechanisms with an optical system using cameras and image processing. This substitution achieves precise treading position monitoring while keeping the overall system structure relatively simple, as the optical system can be integrated without major structural modifications to the treadmill.
Data Source
AI summary
A gait state measurement device measures a gait state of a subject who is walking on a walking surface formed on a belt that runs along a circulation track. The gait state measurement device includes an acquisition unit, a position estimation unit, and a warning control unit. The acquisition unit acquires measurement information of a load distribution sensor that detects the load of the subject through the belt. The position estimation unit estimates the position of the sole of the subject based on the measurement information. The warning control unit performs a different type of warning depending on a relationship between the position of the sole of the subject and each of target areas that are defined according to an installation area of the load distribution sensor.