Dynamic Neuromuscular Measurement Bench for Force-Speed Profiling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neuromuscular characterization methods for lower and upper limbs are not reliable and are not suitable for general public use, as they primarily measure forces at constant speed and lack precision in detecting musculoskeletal-articular risks, especially in cases of functional imbalance.
Innovation Solution
A characterization method and measurement bench that involves a seat moving towards a force platform under load, allowing for ballistic movements to measure eccentric and concentric efforts, with data acquisition and processing to assess neuromuscular imbalances, and a system that can measure forces in multiple dimensions, suitable for various populations, including those in rehabilitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If isokinetic systems are used to measure forces at constant speed, then the measurement process is simple to perform, but the reliability and precision of detecting musculoskeletal-articular risks is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters from constant speed (isokinetic) to variable speed profiles including ballistic movements with acceleration and deceleration phases. This allows capturing dynamic neuromuscular responses that constant speed measurements miss, thereby improving reliability while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static constant-speed measurement to dynamic variable-speed measurement with acceleration and deceleration phases. The seat moves dynamically along the longitudinal axis, enabling measurement of forces during different phases of movement (acceleration, constant velocity, deceleration) to comprehensively assess neuromuscular function
2Strength
If isokinetic exercises are performed at constant speed with automatic resistance adaptation, then maximum muscle contraction is ensured throughout the exercise, but the tests are not suitable for the entire general public and require specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement bench is designed to accommodate diverse populations including healthy individuals, athletes, and rehabilitation patients. The system can perform multiple types of measurements (ballistic, isokinetic, isometric) and adapts to different capability levels, making it universally applicable while maintaining the ability to elicit maximum muscle contraction when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system varies movement parameters including speed, acceleration, and load to suit different user capabilities. For the general public, slower and more controlled movements are used, while athletes can perform high-speed ballistic movements. This parameter adaptability ensures safety and applicability across all populations
3Device complexity
If measurements are taken at constant speed only, then the test protocol is simple, but the ability to detect functional imbalances and musculoskeletal-articular risks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic movement phases (acceleration, constant velocity, deceleration) within a structured protocol. The seat moves along the longitudinal axis through controlled phases, enabling comprehensive neuromuscular assessment while maintaining protocol simplicity through automated sequencing and clear procedural steps
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement captures forces continuously throughout the entire movement cycle including acceleration, constant velocity, and deceleration phases. This continuous measurement approach provides comprehensive data for detecting functional imbalances without requiring multiple separate tests, maintaining protocol simplicity while enhancing measurement precision
Data Source
AI summary
A characterization method for the neuromuscular characterization of at least one lower and/or upper limb of an individual using a measurement bench is provided. This method comprises a step of placing the individual in the measurement bench, a step of unlocking the seat of the individual, a step wherein the individual lands on a force platform, a step wherein the individual pushes against the force platform, a step of acquiring signals and a step of processing data from the acquired signals. In a step, the carriage is damped and the seat is then blocked in a step at the end of its travel after the pushing step and is then returned gently to a test position.