Functional Capacity Evaluation With Objective Lift Effort Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing functional capacity evaluation systems are complex, expensive, and inaccurate in determining maximal effort during lifting tasks, and they fail to accurately measure force distribution between the patient's legs and hands, often requiring manual data collection and distribution, which is prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
A functional capacity evaluation system with adjustable sensors and a control module that electronically measures average acceleration, velocity, and force distribution during lifts, allowing for objective determination of maximal effort, and includes a networked database for data collection and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple video cameras and visual indicators are used to measure lift velocity and acceleration, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/video-based measurement system with electronic sensors that directly measure lift parameters. The sensor attached to the rack nearby the shelf electronically detects lift velocity, acceleration, and timing data, eliminating the need for multiple video cameras and complex visual indicator systems while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary sensor component that acts as a mediator between the lifting box and the measurement system. This sensor captures the necessary biomechanical data during the lift and transmits it to the database, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to direct video analysis methods.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual data collection and distribution is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but productivity and accuracy deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automated data collection and distribution system. The sensor automatically captures lift data, the control module processes and stores it in the database, and the system autonomously distributes results to relevant parties. This eliminates manual data handling while maintaining ease of system implementation through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes an automated feedback loop where sensor data is continuously collected, processed by the control module, stored in the database, and distributed to stakeholders. This automated feedback mechanism improves productivity and accuracy by eliminating human error in data transcription and distribution, while the modular design keeps manufacturing straightforward.
3Device complexity
If fixed sensor positions are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to various patient postures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic sensor positioning capability where the sensor attached to the rack can be adjusted to different locations based on the patient's specific posture and lifting mechanics. The sensor's position can be modified during the evaluation process to optimize measurement accuracy for various patient conditions while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal sensor system that can accommodate multiple patient postures and lifting configurations through a single adjustable sensor unit. The sensor is designed to work with various rack and shelf configurations, allowing it to adapt to different patient anatomies and lifting techniques without requiring multiple specialized sensors or complex reconfiguration procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for testing the ability of an individual to lift objects under various conditions. During standard lifting tests, the average acceleration and velocity of each lift, as well as the distribution of force between the hands and feet of the patient, are electronically measured and recorded. These objective factors can then be used to determine whether the patient is exerting maximal effort, and to assess a patient's condition and progress during a rehabilitation program. In example embodiments, one or more components of the system are adjustable so as to accommodate users of various posture, mechanics, size and movement capabilities.