Instrumented Treadmill Integrating Force Measurement and Virtual Reality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force measurement systems are difficult to accommodate in limited spaces and are not capable of immersing subjects in virtual reality environments, as they require extensive space and lack the functionality to simulate real-life scenarios effectively.
Innovation Solution
A force measurement system comprising a force measurement assembly with force transducers, a visual display device for creating immersive virtual environments, and data processing devices that dynamically adjust treadmill components based on visual elements displayed, allowing subjects to navigate through simulated scenarios while measuring applied forces and moments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement systems use extensive space to accommodate force plate arrays, then measurement capability is improved, but space requirements increase making them difficult to fit in typical building spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the force measurement assembly with a treadmill system, merging two separate functions (force measurement and locomotion training) into a single integrated device. This eliminates the need for separate force plate arrays occupying floor space, as the treadmill itself becomes the measurement platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The treadmill assembly serves multiple functions: it provides locomotion training, performs force measurements, and integrates with virtual reality systems. This multi-functionality replaces the need for dedicated force measurement equipment, reducing overall space requirements while maintaining measurement capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement systems are designed for accurate force measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but they lack the functionality to immerse subjects in virtual reality environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates force measurement, treadmill locomotion, and virtual reality display into a single multi-functional platform. The force measurement assembly captures biomechanical data while the virtual reality system provides immersive environmental simulation, enabling both precise measurement and scenario-based testing simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback loops where force measurement data from the treadmill assembly is processed and used to adjust virtual reality environment parameters. This creates a closed-loop system where physical measurements directly influence the virtual simulation, enhancing both measurement utility and immersion quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the force measurement system includes immersive visual display devices, then virtual reality immersion is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual display system is merged with the treadmill structure, where display components are integrated into the existing framework rather than added as separate external systems. This reduces overall complexity by sharing structural support and control infrastructure between the treadmill and virtual reality elements.
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 environments while being compact enough to fit in typical building spaces, effectively measuring forces and moments applied by subjects, and simulating real-life scenarios for applications like gait analysis and ergonomics assessment.
Implementation Method 1
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 configured to display one or more visual elements so that the visual elements are viewable by 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.