Step Length Estimation Using Gyro and Accelerometer for Mounting Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional movement distance measuring apparatuses fail to accurately calculate step length due to variations in mounting position, as they use the same algorithm for both waist and pocket mounting, leading to measurement errors.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an accelerometer and a gyro sensor to detect steps and determine the mounting position, using different step length estimation algorithms based on the output signals from these sensors to adjust parameters accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same step length estimation algorithm is used for both waist and pocket mounting positions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to mounting position variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different step length estimation algorithms based on the detected mounting position. The mounting position determination unit continuously monitors sensor data to identify whether the device is worn on the waist or carried in a pocket, and automatically selects the appropriate estimation algorithm (first algorithm for waist mounting, second algorithm for pocket mounting) to ensure accurate measurements across different usage scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter set used for step length estimation based on mounting position. Different algorithms with different parameter combinations (a1, a2, b weights) are applied depending on whether the device is mounted on the waist or carried in a pocket. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain high measurement precision without requiring a completely different device for each mounting position
2Measurement precision
If mounting position recognition is added to the system, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing units
Solution Approach 1:
The accelerometer and gyro sensor serve multiple functions: they detect step information for movement measurement and simultaneously provide data for mounting position determination. The step detection unit and mounting position determination unit process the same sensor outputs to achieve both step detection and position recognition, eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the processing into separate functional units: a step detection unit that identifies step events, a mounting position determination unit that analyzes sensor patterns to identify waist vs. pocket mounting, and a step length estimation unit that calculates the final measurement. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in specific tasks while working together, improving overall system efficiency and precision
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 solution achieves accurate step length detection by determining the mounting position with high efficiency, reducing measurement errors and ensuring proper calculation of movement distance.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer for detecting and outputting an acceleration signal of at least one axis
Implementation Method 2
a gyro sensor for detecting and outputting an angular speed signal of at least one axis
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for determining a location of a movement distance measuring apparatus are provided. The apparatus and method determine whether the movement distance measuring apparatus is mounted at the waist of a pedestrian or is located in a pocket and uses a different step length estimation algorithm, e.g. a different step length estimation parameter coefficient, corresponding to the determined mounting position. The determination of whether the movement distance measuring apparatus is mounted to the waist of a pedestrian or is located in a pocket is performed on the basis of a gyro sensor.