Joint Torque Control Using Motion Feedback to Reduce Exercise Fatigue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable electronic devices lack the capability to effectively assist users in strength exercises by dynamically adjusting torque strength and direction based on real-time motion data, leading to inefficiencies and potential user fatigue.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with an actuator and sensor system that adjusts the strength and direction of rotational motion torque in response to user joint movements, using predefined modes to enhance exercise performance and prevent fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuator outputs torque with constant strength and direction, then the device structure is simple, but the user experiences fatigue and exercise efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator dynamically adjusts torque strength and direction based on real-time joint motion detection. The control system transitions from static constant torque output to dynamic variable torque output, adapting to user motion state changes to prevent fatigue and improve exercise efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect joint motion and feeds this information back to the controller, which then adjusts actuator torque accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the actuator to respond to user motion in real-time, optimizing exercise assistance while preventing fatigue.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the actuator continuously outputs torque to assist motion, then exercise support is continuous, but user fatigue increases and exercise quality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator applies torque in periodic cycles synchronized with the user's natural motion rhythm. By detecting joint motion and providing assistance during specific phases of the exercise cycle, the system maintains continuous exercise support while allowing rest periods that prevent fatigue accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes torque parameters (strength and direction) based on detected joint motion and exercise phase. Torque is adjusted to provide maximum assistance when needed and reduced or reversed during phases where continuous torque would cause fatigue, optimizing the balance between exercise support and fatigue prevention.
3Measurement precision
If the actuator adjusts torque strength frequently based on motion data, then exercise precision is improved, but system response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system adjusts torque based on significant motion thresholds rather than every minor motion variation. By triggering torque adjustments only when motion exceeds predefined thresholds or during critical exercise phases, the system maintains high precision where needed while reducing unnecessary adjustments that would slow response time.
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
The device increases the quantity and quality of user motion during strength exercises, monitors exercise parameters, and guides the user through challenging phases, thereby improving exercise efficiency and reducing fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
outputting torque having first strength and based on a second direction different from the first direction, by using an actuator included in the electronic device and corresponding to the joint
Implementation Method 2
identifying rotational motion rotated along a first direction at a joint of a user of the electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes an actuator related to a joint of a user of the electronic device, at least one sensor, memory storing one or more computer programs, and one or more processors operatively coupled to the actuator, the at least one sensor, and the memory, wherein the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the electronic device to adjust the strength of the rotary motion of the joint to a first strength indicated by information related to the user, use the at least one sensor to identify data representing the rotary motion of the joint after adjusting the strength of the rotary motion to the first strength, and, based on the identified data, adjust the strength of the rotary motion from the first strength to a second strength different from the first strength at least based on identifying that the rotary motion has stopped for a designated duration.