Wearable IMU Orientation Control for Smooth Proportional Commands

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing control systems for robotic and mechanical devices lack efficient and accurate processing of user signals for smooth directional and proportional control, particularly in applications requiring precise orientation control.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus comprising a sensor module with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) worn by the user, which detects body input and transmits orientation data wirelessly to a device module, allowing for real-time control of associated devices such as prosthetic limbs or other mechanical systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional control systems are used for robotic and mechanical devices, then the system structure is simple, but the processing of user signals is not efficient and accurate enough for smooth directional and proportional control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal processing accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is divided into separate functional modules: sensor module (with IMU for detecting body orientation), communication module (for wireless signal transmission), and device module (for executing control commands). This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, improving overall signal processing accuracy while managing system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor module acts as an intermediary between the user's body movements and the controlled device. It captures body orientation data through the IMU, processes this information, and transmits it wirelessly to the device module, enabling precise and smooth control without requiring direct mechanical connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If sensor modules with IMU are worn by users for real-time control, then directional and proportional control is smooth and accurate, but the power consumption and module size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional control smoothnessVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic sampling of body orientation data at optimized intervals rather than continuous monitoring. The IMU captures body orientation at specific time intervals, and the communication module transmits data periodically, reducing power consumption while maintaining smooth control responsiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical control linkages with wireless electronic communication. The IMU electronically detects body orientation and transmits control signals wirelessly to the device module, eliminating the need for mechanical connections and reducing overall system power requirements compared to traditional wired control systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 precise and proportional control of devices by translating user body orientation into device commands, providing smooth and accurate directional control with reduced power consumption and module size, facilitating use in various applications including prosthetics and virtual devices.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one sensor module is adapted to be worn by a user on at least one body part with the inertial measurement unit detecting body input

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInertial measurement: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS11684312B2System, method and apparatus for orientation control
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 DEKA PRODUCTS LP
  • US11684312B2 patent drawing
  • US11684312B2 patent drawing
  • US11684312B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for control of a device includes at least one sensor module detecting orientation of a user's body part. The at least one sensor module is in communication with a device module configured to command an associated device. The at least one sensor module detects orientation of the body part. The at least one sensor module sends output signals related to orientation of the user's body part to the device module and the device module controls the associated device based on the signals from the at least one sensor module.