Handheld Force Measurement Device for Isometric Exercise Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable devices for force measurement lack the capability to track real-time force applications during isometric exercises and are not designed for handheld, portable use, limiting their functionality in monitoring and recording force data during various activities.
Innovation Solution
A portable force measurement system with integrated sensors, including load cells and strain gauges, that measures and transmits force data in real-time, equipped with additional features like accelerometers and GPS for comprehensive activity tracking, and communicates with external applications for enhanced exercise or rehabilitation experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If portable devices are designed for force measurement, then portability and handheld use are improved, but the functionality to track real-time force applications during isometric exercises deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The portable force measurement device integrates multiple functions including force sensing, acceleration measurement, gyroscope data, and wireless communication into a single handheld unit. This allows the device to perform both portability functions (handheld operation, wireless data transmission) and specialized exercise tracking functions (real-time force measurement, isometric exercise monitoring) simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between portability and functionality.
2Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement devices are used, then force measurement capability is provided, but real-time tracking and portable handheld use deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical force measurement systems with integrated electronic sensors including load cells, strain gauges, acceleration sensors, and gyroscope data. This substitution enables the device to maintain accurate force measurement capabilities while being miniaturized into a portable handheld form factor that can be easily operated during isometric exercises.
3Measurement precision
If electronic bathroom scales are used for force measurement, then weight measurement is provided, but real-time force tracking during isometric exercise deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The portable force measurement device continuously measures and transmits force data in real-time during isometric exercises, unlike conventional bathroom scales that only provide static weight measurements. The device maintains continuous operation with real-time data transmission, ensuring uninterrupted force tracking throughout the exercise duration, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and real-time tracking capability.
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 accurate, real-time force measurement and tracking, providing users with detailed insights into their exercise performance and health metrics, enhancing the effectiveness of isometric training and rehabilitation programs.
Implementation Method 1
Individual sensors may comprise integrated strain gages configured to convert strain into a small change in resistance. With the application of a Wheatstone half-bridge, for example, and/or other arrangements of circuitry, the circuit outputs a measurable change in voltage, which can be converted into a force value.
Implementation Method 2
The one or more force sensors comprise a plurality of load cells using strain gauges.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
Force measurement systems and methods are disclosed for accurate real-time measurement of forces. The system is configured to measure force as a function of time. The system may comprise a handheld device capable of measuring a force externally applied to opposing surface regions thereof for the purpose of monitoring or directing isometric exercises for personal wellness. Additionally, the system may be configured to communicate force measurement data to a remote device or server.