Triangular Load Cell Array for Distraction Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating distraction, such as ballistocardiogram measurements using EMFi sensors on chairs, face challenges like energy dispersion, motion artifacts, loss of directional information, and inability to analyze posture, limiting their effectiveness in monitoring distraction levels in daily life settings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a degree-of-distraction measurement chair with a smart sensor using three load cells for multi-channel information monitoring, including posture, ballistocardiogram, and body weight, and a mobile terminal for wireless data transmission, which extracts posture change information and calculates a distraction index through Bluetooth communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cushion type sensor using EMFi sensor is used to measure ballistocardiogram, then the measurement can be performed on a chair, but energy dispersion occurs and motion artifacts are introduced making it difficult to acquire high quality signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor system into multiple load cells (at least three) arranged in a triangular configuration on the chair seat. Each load cell independently measures force components, and the signals are combined to calculate ballistocardiogram parameters. This segmentation allows the system to maintain chair-based convenience while improving signal quality through multiple measurement points that reduce energy dispersion and motion artifact interference.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cushion type sensor using EMFi sensor is used, then ballistocardiogram measurement is possible, but directional information (vector) is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-point cushion sensor to a multi-point triangular array of load cells on the chair seat. By arranging three or more load cells in a triangular configuration, the system captures force vectors in multiple dimensions (X, Y, Z directions). This dimensional expansion enables the calculation of directional information and vector characteristics of the ballistocardiogram signals, which were lost in single-point measurements.
3Productivity
If a cushion type sensor is used to estimate motion (degree of distraction), then motion estimation is possible, but posture information cannot be analyzed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the multi-load cell sensor system to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same triangular array of load cells that measures ballistocardiogram parameters also captures posture information by detecting force distribution patterns across the chair seat. By processing the force data from multiple load cells, the system can distinguish between body movements (distraction) and static posture changes, enabling both motion estimation and posture analysis with a single sensor configuration.
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
Enables accurate monitoring of posture changes and distraction levels, providing a healthcare parameter for unstable states and learning efficiency, while overcoming previous limitations by maintaining directional information and improving signal quality.
Implementation Method 1
a smart sensor including three load cells arranged at three vertices of a triangular shape on a plane
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for estimating a degree of distraction based on unconstrained bio-information. The present invention provides a system for estimating a degree of distraction based on unconstrained bio-information, the system comprising: a degree-of-distraction measurement chair comprising a seating unit, a message transmission unit, a pressure detection unit, and a support unit, which are formed in this order from the top to the bottom thereof, wherein the pressure detection unit formed on the support unit comprises a smart sensor including three load cells arranged at three vertices of a triangular shape on a plane; and a mobile smart terminal configured to receive information regarding the degree of distraction from the message transmission unit of the degree-of-distraction measurement chair through the Bluetooth communication.