Motion Sensor Attachment Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Motion sensing apparatuses often require specific attachment configurations, leading to incorrect function if attached incorrectly, and cannot be used across multiple configurations, limiting their versatility.

Innovation Solution

A motion sensing apparatus that determines its attachment position using acceleration measurements, selects a suitable motion analysis algorithm based on this position, and calculates motion parameters, comprising a housing unit, accelerometers, a filtering element, and a processing system that analyzes acceleration signals to identify the attachment position and select the appropriate algorithm.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If motion sensing apparatus is designed for specific attachment configuration, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its measurement and analysis algorithms based on the detected attachment position. The processing system automatically adjusts motion analysis parameters and selects appropriate algorithms according to whether the device is attached to the wrist, ankle, chest, or other locations, enabling a single device to maintain measurement precision across multiple attachment configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters including motion analysis algorithms, measurement axes, and calculation methods based on the detected attachment position. By modifying these parameters according to the attachment location, the system maintains accurate motion parameter measurement while adapting to different usage scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If motion sensing apparatus uses fixed attachment configuration, then device complexity is reduced, but versatility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidversatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The motion sensing apparatus automatically detects its own attachment position using acceleration measurements and self-configures the appropriate motion analysis algorithm without requiring manual user input or complex external configuration. This self-service capability enables versatility while keeping the device interface simple and the overall system relatively simple

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If motion sensing apparatus automatically detects attachment position, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual configuration operations with automatic detection using acceleration sensors and signal processing. Instead of requiring users to manually set attachment position parameters, the system uses accelerometer data patterns to automatically identify the attachment location and configure appropriate settings, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through software-based solutions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 determination of attachment position and selection of appropriate algorithms, allowing the apparatus to function correctly across various attachment configurations and providing real-time motion parameter feedback, enhancing user experience and data accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

an accelerometer providing a signal corresponding to an acceleration measurement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration measurement: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentEP2255209B1Method and apparatus for determining the attachment position of a motion sensing apparatus
Publication Date: 2013.12.18 GARMIN SWITZERLAND GMBH
  • EP2255209B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2255209B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2255209B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A motion sensing apparatus generally comprising a housing unit operable to be attached to an object at an attachment position, an accelerometer operable to provide a signal corresponding to an acceleration measurement; and a processing system. The processing system is operable to acquire the signal corresponding to the acceleration measurement and analyze the acquired acceleration measurement to identify the attachment position of the housing unit.