Wearable VO2max Estimation via Normalized Heart Rate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) require individuals to perform exercises at multiple intensities or speeds, which is uncomfortable and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method using a wearable device and computing device that normalizes heart-rate data with respect to maximum heart-rate and applies a probabilistic model to estimate VO2max from single-speed exercises, incorporating data from multiple sessions for improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods use multiple exercise intensities to estimate VO2max, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the exercise intensity parameter from multiple discrete levels to a continuous range, allowing estimation of VO2max from exercise at any intensity. The probabilistic model processes heart rate and workload data across varying intensities to derive accurate VO2max estimates without requiring predetermined intensity steps, thus simplifying the exercise protocol while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a probabilistic model as an intermediary between raw exercise data (heart rate, workload) and VO2max estimation. This model processes data from exercise at any intensity level and produces accurate VO2max estimates, eliminating the need for complex multi-intensity protocols while preserving measurement accuracy through statistical analysis.
2Measurement precision
If direct measurement of VO2max is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but object-affected harmful factors worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses readily available, low-risk exercise equipment and standard heart rate monitoring instead of expensive, high-intensity laboratory testing equipment. By processing data from normal exercise sessions rather than maximal stress tests, the method achieves accurate VO2max estimation without exposing individuals to cardiovascular risks associated with direct measurement protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The probabilistic model serves as an intermediary that extracts accurate VO2max information from low-intensity exercise data, eliminating the need for high-intensity direct measurement protocols. This intermediary processing transforms safe, low-stress exercise data into precise VO2max estimates without exposing individuals to cardiovascular risks.
3Measurement precision
If fixed test protocols are used for VO2max estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static, predetermined exercise protocols with a dynamic approach where exercise intensity and duration can vary freely. The probabilistic model adapts to process heart rate and workload data from any exercise pattern, maintaining measurement precision while providing flexibility in protocol design and execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the protocol structure from fixed intensity steps to continuous parameter variation. By accepting exercise data across any intensity range and using probabilistic modeling to extract VO2max, the system maintains accuracy while allowing flexible, personalized exercise protocols that adapt to individual capabilities and preferences.
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device to estimate an individual's maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) during exercise. The wearable device includes a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to receive heart-rate measurement data and exercise workload data for an individual of the wearable device. The memory stores instructions that cause the processor to obtain the heart-rate and exercise workload of the individual, normalize the heart-rate with respect to the individual's maximum heart-rate to provide a data pair of normalized heart-rate (HRn) and exercise workload (w), and apply a probabilistic model that relates HRn to w and maximum oxygen uptake to provide an estimate of maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) of the individual.