Video-Synchronized EMG for Personalized Exercise Selection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Exercise programs often take a one-size-fits-all approach, failing to account for individual differences in neuromuscular performance, particularly for muscles like the pelvic floor, which are difficult to palpate and activate voluntarily, leading to suboptimal muscle fiber contraction.

Innovation Solution

A system and method using video-synchronized electromyography to identify the most effective movements or exercises for each individual by recording and analyzing synchronized EMG signals from target and facilitating muscles during various candidate movements, selecting those that maximize target muscle engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a one-size-fits-all exercise program is used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but individual neuromuscular performance differences are not accounted for, leading to suboptimal muscle fiber activation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividualization of exercise programVSAvoidcomplexity of exercise prescription system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the parameters of the exercise program based on individual EMG measurements. By measuring muscle activation levels and adjusting exercise selection and intensity parameters according to each individual's neuromuscular characteristics, the system achieves personalized exercise prescription without requiring complex manual assessment procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses real-time EMG feedback to monitor muscle activation during exercise performance. This feedback mechanism allows the system to objectively assess whether the target muscle is being properly activated and to adjust the exercise program accordingly, replacing subjective trainer assessment with automated biological feedback

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If palpation is used to assess muscle activation, then direct tactile feedback is obtained, but muscles like the pelvic floor are difficult to palpate especially during movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of muscle activation assessmentVSAvoiddifficulty of muscle access during exercise

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the mechanical palpation method with electromagnetic sensing technology. EMG electrodes detect electrical signals from muscle fibers non-invasively, allowing assessment of deep muscles like the pelvic floor without requiring physical contact or access to the muscle tissue, thereby solving the limitation of palpation for difficult-to-reach muscles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If voluntary contraction is used to activate target muscle, then patient autonomy is maintained, but only partial contraction of muscle fibers is achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of muscle fibers activatedVSAvoiddifficulty of voluntary activation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses EMG technology as an intermediary to bridge the gap between voluntary intent and actual muscle activation. By providing real-time visual or auditory feedback about muscle activation levels, the system helps patients understand whether they are successfully contracting the target muscle, thereby improving the effectiveness of voluntary activation without removing patient autonomy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This approach allows for a customized exercise regimen that significantly increases muscle fiber activation and compliance with fitness goals by identifying ideal exercises for each individual, enhancing neuromuscular performance and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

A synchronized clip includes a first electromyogram (EMG) of a target muscle, a second EMG of a facilitating muscle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromyography:

Data Source

PatentUS10610737B1System and method for using video-synchronized electromyography to improve neuromuscular performance of a target muscle

Publication Date: 2020.04.07 CRAWFORD BRUCE SCOTT

AI summary

A system and method for using video-synchronized electromyography to improve neuromuscular performance of a target muscle is disclosed. A subject may perform a series of exercises or movements that are candidates for inclusion in an exercise regimen. Video of the subject performing the candidate movements may be combined with electromyogram data from a target muscle and a facilitating muscle. The clips may be analyzed to determine the best exercises for the subject to achieve his or her fitness goals for the target muscle.