Stress Estimation via Walking Speed Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stress estimation methods, such as heart rate monitoring and questionnaires, impose a heavy burden on the estimation target person, requiring continuous attachment of sensors or frequent responses.
Innovation Solution
A stress estimation system that calculates a comparison value based on walking speeds at different timings in a predetermined place, using a walking speed acquisition unit, estimation unit, and output unit to estimate stress without the need for sensors or responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If heart rate sensor is attached continuously to measure stress, then stress estimation accuracy is improved, but burden on estimation target person increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the stress measurement function from direct physiological sensors (heart rate monitors) and questionnaires, and relocates it to indirect behavioral observation through walking speed measurement. This extraction eliminates the need for continuous sensor attachment or active user participation while maintaining stress estimation capability through objective gait analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces walking speed as an intermediary parameter between the subject's stress state and the measurement system. Instead of directly measuring physiological stress indicators, the system uses walking speed - a natural, unconscious behavioral parameter - as a mediator that reflects stress levels without requiring direct intervention with the subject.
2Measurement precision
If questionnaire is administered continuously to estimate stress, then stress estimation accuracy is improved, but burden on estimation target person increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the measurement system to automatically collect and analyze walking speed data without requiring the subject's active participation or time investment. The subject simply walks through the measurement area during their normal routine, and the system automatically captures and processes the gait data, eliminating the need for dedicated questionnaire completion time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements stress estimation through periodic walking measurements at different timings, replacing continuous questionnaire administration. By measuring walking speed at multiple discrete time points and comparing the results, the system achieves stress estimation without requiring continuous user engagement or significant time investment from the subject.
Data Source
AI summary
A stress estimation system which estimates stress of a user includes a walking speed acquisition unit configured to acquire walking speed information indicating walking speeds of a user in each of the morning and the afternoon at a preset place, an estimation unit configured to calculate a comparison value between the walking speeds in each of the morning and the afternoon indicated by the acquired walking speed information, and to estimate stress of the user based on the calculated comparison value, and an output unit configured to output information in accordance with the estimated stress of the user.