Wrist Device Algorithm Calibrates Arm Motion Using Torso Reference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional exercise devices face inaccuracies in determining physiological parameters due to the varying motion patterns of sensors attached to different body locations, such as arms and torsos, leading to inconsistent and less accurate results.

Innovation Solution

A wrist device equipped with two algorithms processes acceleration data from both arm and torso motions, using torso data for calibration to correct arm data estimates, thereby improving the accuracy of physiological parameter calculations like speed and energy expenditure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single dedicated algorithm is used for processing acceleration data based on sensor attachment location, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to varying motion patterns at different body locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealgorithm complexityVSAvoidphysiological parameter accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal processing system that can handle acceleration data from multiple sensor attachment locations (arm, torso, foot) using a single multi-functional algorithm. This algorithm automatically adapts to different motion patterns based on the detected attachment location, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated algorithms while maintaining high measurement precision across all locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The processing algorithm is designed to be dynamic and adaptive, automatically adjusting its processing parameters based on the detected motion pattern and sensor attachment location. This allows the single algorithm to optimize its performance for each specific attachment location, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the sensor attachment location is fixed to a single location with a dedicated algorithm, then the device complexity is minimized, but the adaptability deteriorates when users wear the device at different locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealgorithm configurationVSAvoidattachment location flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal algorithm that can process acceleration data from any attachment location (arm, torso, foot, or other body parts). The algorithm includes automatic detection capabilities that identify the attachment location and adjust processing parameters accordingly, providing full adaptability without requiring multiple dedicated algorithms or complex configuration settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The processing system automatically detects the sensor attachment location and configures itself without user intervention. The algorithm analyzes the acceleration data patterns to determine which body location the sensor is attached to and automatically selects the appropriate processing mode, making the system self-adapting and eliminating the need for manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If different algorithms are used for different attachment locations, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple algorithms and selection mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephysiological parameter accuracyVSAvoidalgorithm management
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple location-specific algorithms into a single integrated processing algorithm. This unified algorithm incorporates the processing logic for all attachment locations (arm, torso, foot) within one computational framework, maintaining the precision benefits of location-specific processing while eliminating the complexity of managing multiple separate algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The algorithm dynamically adjusts its processing parameters based on the detected attachment location, effectively transforming a single static algorithm into a dynamic multi-functional processor. This allows the system to achieve the precision of multiple dedicated algorithms while maintaining the simplicity of a single algorithm structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2636361B1Exercise monitoring using acceleration measurement
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 POLAR ELECTRO
  • EP2636361B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~2
  • EP2636361B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2636361B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

An apparatus for measuring a physiological parameter of a user is disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one processor and at least one memory comprising a computer program code comprising program instructions of a first algorithm modelling acquisition of the physiological parameter from motion of a user's arm and program instructions of a second algorithm modelling acquisition of the physiological parameter from motion of the user's torso. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to: acquire torso acceleration data representing motion of the torso of the user; process the torso acceleration data with the second algorithm; and acquire, from the acceleration data processed with the second algorithm, reference parameters for the first algorithm.