Sensorized Exercise Equipment for Virtual Reality Augmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There are no modular systems available that can adapt existing exercise devices, such as stationary bicycles or rowing machines, into virtual reality-augmented devices capable of accepting separate inputs from each component, limiting the integration of virtual reality with rehabilitative training.
Innovation Solution
A modular, sensorized exercise system using hydraulic force-sensing handles and smart pedal modules that interface with a virtual environment, allowing for the measurement of kinetic and kinematic parameters to control virtual reality experiences and provide haptic feedback, thereby enhancing rehabilitative training and fitness training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing exercise devices are adapted into virtual reality-augmented devices, then training intensity and rehabilitation outcomes are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the exercise device into separate instrumented components (pedals, handlebars, seat) that can be independently sensorized and integrated. Each component has dedicated sensors for force, position, and motion detection, allowing modular integration with virtual reality systems while maintaining the original exercise equipment structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrumented exercise system is designed to work with multiple types of exercise equipment (stationary bikes, ellipticals, rowing machines) through universal sensor interfaces and mounting mechanisms. The same sensor suite and control architecture can be applied across different device types, reducing overall system complexity despite the added functionality.
2Measurement precision
If separate inputs from each component are accepted, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements separate sensor suites for each major component (pedals for force and position, handlebars for gripping force and rotation, seat for vertical motion detection). This segmentation allows precise measurement of each component's contribution while maintaining independent sensor modules that simplify integration and calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
A central control system acts as an intermediary that collects data from all separate component sensors, synchronizes the inputs, and processes them into coordinated virtual reality commands. This intermediary layer manages the complexity of multiple sensors by providing a unified interface for data aggregation and processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensorized modular systems are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses modular sensor packages that can be independently manufactured and attached to different exercise equipment components. Each module (pedal sensor assembly, handlebar sensor assembly, seat sensor assembly) is a self-contained unit that simplifies manufacturing and allows for easy replacement or upgrade of individual components without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor modules are designed with universal mounting mechanisms and standardized interfaces that work across multiple exercise equipment types. This universality reduces manufacturing complexity by using common components and assembly procedures rather than custom-built solutions for each device type.
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 system effectively integrates virtual reality with existing exercise equipment, enhancing training intensity and adaptability, improving cardiovascular fitness and rehabilitation outcomes by providing real-time feedback and dynamic virtual environments based on user input.
Implementation Method 1
a compression load cell that is disposed directly or substantially directly beneath the pedal raceway, for measuring load from the lower extremity on the pedal
Implementation Method 2
a spatial orientation detection device, e.g., a multi-axis accelerometer, for sensing static pedal tilt by measuring a range of motion of an ankle of the user
Implementation Method 3
a sensing device for sensing velocity and for providing velocity parameter data to the processing device
Implementation Method 4
Hydraulic force-sensing handle bar sensors are used, e.g., to assess gripping forces of the user's hands
Data Source
AI summary
A mechatronic exercise system, e.g., for rehabilitation, having instrumented handle and pedal systems and, preferably, an interactive virtual environment is disclosed. Alternatively, the instrumented handle and pedal systems are part of a virtual reality augmenting kit that can convert most types of exercise equipment, such as a stationary or exercise bicycle, ergometer, rowing machine or the like, into full virtual reality (VR) smart systems. In another embodiment, the instrumented handle and pedal systems can each be used separately with other types of devices. In a preferred embodiment, components embedded with sensors are implemented, e.g., on a stationary, exercise bicycle to monitor physiological and biomechanical parameters of the user. Signal data from the sensing components is used to immerse the user in a VR simulation so as to provide the user with visual, auditory, and haptic feedback to the user's performance.