Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/48—Other medical applications
  • A61B5/486—Biofeedback
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/103—Measuring devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
  • A61B5/11—Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb
  • A61B5/1116—Determining posture transitions
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/103—Measuring devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
  • A61B5/11—Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb
  • A61B5/1121—Determining geometric values, e.g. centre of rotation or angular range of movement
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
  • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
  • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
  • A61B5/6823—Trunk, e.g., chest, back, abdomen, hip
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/74—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient; User input means
  • A61B5/7405—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient; User input means using sound
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
  • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
  • A61B5/74—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient; User input means
  • A61B5/7455—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient; User input means characterised by tactile indication, e.g. vibration or electrical stimulation

Definitions

• the present invention relates to the general technical field of systems and methods for controlling a person's back posture, in particular in the context of controlling the health risks posed by the adoption of poor back postures.
• Back pain is sometimes referred to as the "disease of the century", given the growing number of people who are likely to suffer from a back condition (low back pain, neck pain, back pain, etc.) at least once in their lifetime.
• back pain, and in particular low back pain is caused by the repeated adoption of bad postures of the back which, by inappropriately stressing the spine and its muscle support system, can in particular lead to lesions of the back muscles. intervertebral discs, ligaments, muscles and tendons ensuring the locomotor role of the spine.
• the risk of developing low back pain is particularly high in certain professional settings.
• Passive orthotic devices are already known, for example of the corset or belt type, intended to be worn by a user and to mechanically constrain the movements and orientations of the latter's spine, so as to avoid the implementation of certain postures. known to present a risk to health. If such known orthotic devices fulfill a preventive function satisfactory for bad postures, they do not on the other hand allow their user to clearly identify risky postures and to adapt their behavior on their own in order to effectively avoid their reproduction. In addition, these orthotic devices can sometimes prove uncomfortable to wear, in particular for extended periods of time, and even be incompatible with certain professional activities. This is the reason why devices have been proposed designed to detect the orientation of the spine of a user, using numerous sensors positioned on the user, and to provide sensory feedback to the latter.
• the objects assigned to the invention therefore aim to provide a new system and a new method which make it possible, in a particularly simple and efficient manner, to detect and help correct in real time inappropriate postures of a user.
• Another object of the invention aims to propose a new system for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures which presents an advantageous cost / functionality compromise.
• Another object of the invention aims to provide a new system for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures which is particularly robust and reliable in use.
• Another object of the invention aims to provide a new system for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures, the use of which is particularly light and relatively comfortable for the user.
• Another object of the invention aims to provide a new system for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures which is particularly compact and lightweight.
• Another object of the invention aims to provide a new system and a new method for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures which take particular account of the physiological characteristics of each user.
• Another object of the invention is to provide a new system and method for the detection and aid in the correction of inappropriate postures which reliably detect a wide variety of different inappropriate postures.
• Another object of the invention aims to provide a new system and a new method for detecting and helping to correct inappropriate postures which allow particularly rapid and efficient learning by the user of the postures to be avoided.
• the objects assigned to the invention are achieved using a system for detecting and helping to correct the posture of at least one user, comprising
• said support comprising a first support portion carrying a first sensor module and designed to hold said first sensor module in position facing a predefined lumbar area of the back of the patient.
• the first sensor module being configured to provide a first signal characteristic of its configuration instantaneous spatial
• a second support portion carrying a second sensor module and designed to hold said second sensor module in position facing a predefined thoracic zone of the user's back, at a distance from said first sensor module
• the second sensor module being configured to provide a second signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration
• a signal processing unit in data communication with said first and second sensor modules and configured to
• first and second signals o define from said first and second signals, and while the user assigns an initial upright posture, a first plane attached to the first sensor module and a second plane attached to the second sensor module, which first plane and second plane are then initially inclined one with respect to the other at a first angle which presents, in projection in the sagittal plane of the user, a first initial value, then determining in real time, from said first and second signals, an instantaneous value variation of the value of said first angle with respect to said first initial value,
• said support also carrying a feedback means, connected to the signal processing unit and capable of generating in real time a primary alert signal perceptible by the user, in response to the reception of the primary output signal supplied by the signal processing unit.
• the objects assigned to the invention are also achieved with the aid of a method of detecting and assisting in correcting the posture of a user, comprising a step E1 of equipping the user with an individual support intended to be worn on him by the user, said support comprising a first support portion carrying a first sensor module and holding said first sensor module in position facing d a predefined lumbar zone of the user's back, the first sensor module supplying at least a first signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration, and a second support portion carrying a second sensor module holding said second sensor module in position facing it 'a predefined thoracic zone of the user's back, at a distance from said first sensor module, the second sensor module being configured to provide a second signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration, said support also carrying feedback means,
• FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of a system according to the invention, the individual support of which forms a harness and equips a user seen from the front;
• FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of a system according to the invention, the individual support of which forms a harness and equips a user seen from behind;
• FIG. 3 illustrates, schematically, an aspect of the operation of the system according to the invention, in connection with a user shown in a side view;
• FIG. 4 illustrates, schematically, another aspect of the operation of the system according to the invention, in connection with a user shown in a side view;
• FIG. 5 illustrates, schematically, another aspect of the operation of the system according to the invention, in connection with a user shown in a side view
• - Figure 6 illustrates, schematically, an aspect of a preferred operation of the system according to the invention, in connection with a user shown in a top view
• FIG. 7 illustrates, schematically, another aspect of the preferential operation of the system according to the invention, in connection with a user shown in a top view.
• the invention relates to a system 1 for detecting and helping to correct the posture of at least one user, that is to say a system designed to detect, characterize a posture adopted by the user and to cause the latter to correct his posture on his own, when the posture adopted is detected as inappropriate, that is to say liable to harm the health of the user.
• the system 1 according to the invention comprises at least one individual support 2 intended to be worn on it by a user, understood here as preferably being a human being.
• the individual support 2 advantageously forms a sub-assembly of the system 1 according to the invention, intended to temporarily equip the user during a more or less long period (for example, during a working day).
• the support 2 forms a “ready-to-wear” (or “wearable”) device, that is to say a device forming a garment or integrated into a garment, or even forming an accessory intended to be worn on. his body by the user.
• the support 2 comprises a first support portion 2A which carries a first sensor module 3, and a second support portion portion 2B which in turn carries a second sensor module 4 (separate from the first sensor module 3).
• the support 2 comprises at least two support portions on which or inside which are respectively fixed, integrated, a first and a second sensor modules 3, 4.
• the first support portion 2A is designed, that is to say specifically shaped and configured, to hold the first sensor module 3 in position facing a predefined lumbar area 5A of the user's back
• the second support portion 2B is designed , that is to say specifically shaped and configured, to hold in position the second sensor module 4 facing a predefined thoracic zone 5B of the back of the user, away from said first sensor module 3.
• Said first and second support portions 2A, 2B are advantageously designed to hold in position the first and second sensor modules 4, 5 in a firm manner, without particular play, in wearing conditions normal of the individual support 2 by the user.
• the first and second support portions 2A, 2B are designed, that is to say specifically shaped and configured, to match, closely follow, respectively the topology of the predefined lumbar and thoracic zones.
• said first and second support portions 2A, 2B are designed to keep said first and second sensor modules 3, 4 aligned along a straight line corresponding substantially to the axis of the user's spine.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 are positioned in an advantageously aligned manner opposite the user's spine.
• the first and second support portions 2A, 2B are not specifically designed to allow the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 to be held in position facing a particular vertebra (such a positioning resulting from the wearing of the support 2 by the user would be purely fortuitous here), since the sensor modules 3, 4 are advantageously intended to provide information in connection with the relative orientation of the predefined lumbar and thoracic zones 5A, 5B and not, as such, in connection with a relative orientation of certain lumbar and thoracic vertebrae.
• the predefined lumbar zone 5A preferably corresponds to a zone of the lower back of the user positioned facing the top of the natural lordosis of the lumbar spine of the user
• the predefined thoracic zone 5B preferably corresponds to an area of the user's upper back positioned facing the apex of the physiological kyphosis of the user's thoracic spine.
• Maintaining such a distance between the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 advantageously contributes to optimal operation of the system 1 according to the invention, which will be specified later, in particular in the preferred case which will be specified later in which the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 constitute the one and only posture sensors carried by the support 2.
• the first sensor module 3 is configured to provide a first signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration, that is to say that the first sensor module 3 is designed, configured, to provide a signal representative of its position and / or of its position. speed of movement and / or its orientation in space at a given time.
• the second sensor module 4 is configured, configured, to provide a second signal characteristic of its own instantaneous spatial configuration.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 being respectively maintained in position facing said predefined lumbar and thoracic zones of the user, their respective signals are advantageously respectively representative of the instantaneous spatial configuration of said predefined lumbar and thoracic zones.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 therefore constitute posture sensors, designed to allow the detection and characterization of the posture adopted by the user equipped with said individual support 2.
• each of the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 comprises as such a tri-axis gyroscope, a tri-axis accelerometer, as well as a tri-axis magnetometer.
• Each of the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 then advantageously forms an inertial unit (or “Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)”), well known as such.
• IMU Inertial Measurement Unit
• each of the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 could for example alternatively only comprise a tri-axis magnetometer, although the system 1 according to the invention would then be potentially more sensitive to the possible presence of disturbing external magnetic fields.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 constitute the one and only posture sensors carried by the support 2.
• the latter therefore does not carry any other sensor module than said first and second sensor modules 3, 4, which would be also intended to be maintained in position facing a predefined area of the user's back and intended to generate a signal representative of the instantaneous spatial configuration of the latter in order to detect the posture of the user. the user.
• Such a limitation on the number of sensor modules intended to characterize the instantaneous posture of the user advantageously contributes in particular to the simplicity of design, to the ease of implementation, as well as to the reliability of the system 1 according to the invention.
• the support 2 carries other types of sensors or sensors, for example intended to detect physiological characteristics of the user, not directly related to the posture of the latter, such as a pressure sensor. pulse, temperature sensor, etc.
• the system 1 also comprises a signal processing unit 6, that is to say a set of electrical, electronic or even software components (and for example one or more microcontrollers), in data communication with said first and second sensor modules 3, 4, for example by means of electrically conductive wires connecting each of the sensor modules 3, 4 to the signal processing unit 6 and through which the first and second signals generated by the modules sensors 3, 4 are transmitted to said signal processing unit 6.
• the signal processing unit 6 is carried by the individual support 2, that is to say that it is on board or to the inside the latter.
• the signal processing unit 6 is configured for:
• first plane P1 fictitious
• second plane P2 fictitious
• first plane P1 and second plane P2 are then initially inclined with respect to each other at a first angle (a) which presents, in projection into the sagittal plane Ps of the user, a first initial value (aq) ,
• the user having typically left said initial upright posture, determine in real time, from said first and second signals, an instantaneous value Da of variation of the value of said first angle with respect to said first initial value,
• the term “initial straight posture” is understood to mean a reference posture corresponding, for a given user, to a posture in which the user's back is substantially straight (straight back position) or, at least, according to the morphology of the user, to a reference posture which respects the physical integrity of the user's back.
• Such an initial upright posture can advantageously be predefined by an expert in biomechanics, such as a physiotherapist, and taught to the user upstream of the use of the system 1 of the invention, or on the occasion of a first. use of the latter, as will be explained below.
• said initial straight posture corresponds to a position in which the user is standing.
• the signal processing unit 6 is therefore designed and configured to receive the first and second signals respectively supplied by the first and second sensor modules 3, 4, and to define first of all from data representative of a spatial configuration instantaneous contained in these signals, two fictitious planes P1, P2 attached to each of the sensor modules 3, 4.
• the planes P1, P2 thus defined then present, when the user adopts said initial straight posture (straight back), a relative spatial orientation of reference characterized by a first angle (a) of inclination of the second plane P2 with respect to the first plane P1, which presents, in projection in the sagittal plane Ps of the user, a first initial value (aq).
• the sagittal plane Ps - or median sagittal plane - is a vertical plane that passes from front to back, dividing the human body into two right and left halves.
• the first initial value may be zero, in which case the first and second planes P1, P2 are parallel or coincident (FIG. 3), or non-zero in which case the first and second planes P1, P2 intersect.
• the first and second planes P1, P2 can be defined substantially vertical, parallel to each other, and orthogonal to the sagittal plane Ps of the user, as in the example of figure 3.
• the unit signal processing 6 is also designed and configured to determine, calculate, in real time, once the user has left the initial upright posture of reference, and still from said first and second signals supplied by the two sensor modules 3, 4, an instantaneous value Da of variation of the value of the first angle with respect to the first initial value.
• an instantaneous value equal to the first initial value (Da zero)
• Such a posture does not a priori present any particular risk.
• the signal processing unit 6 is thus also designed and configured to generate in real time, since the comparison which it has carried out has made it possible to identify that the instantaneous value Da of variation of the value of the first angle which is greater than the first predefined threshold angular value, a primary output signal representative of the exceeding of this first predefined threshold angular value.
• the individual support 2 of the system according to the invention also carries a feedback means 7 (or means feedback), connected to the signal processing unit 6 (for example by means of electrical conductors) and which is capable of generating in real time a primary alert signal perceptible by the user, in response to the reception of the primary output signal supplied by the signal processing unit 6.
• a feedback means 7 or means feedback
• the user will understand that the posture he is affecting is dangerous for the integrity of his back, and he can then instantly change his attitude to regain a more compliant, less risky posture, and stop the warning signal. Thanks to the system according to the invention, it is thus possible to detect and characterize bad posture very simply and particularly effectively. the user's back, and immediately warn the user so that he can instantly remedy this inappropriate posture on his own.
• the first predefined threshold angular value configured in the signal processing unit 6 and on the basis of which is therefore triggered the primary sensory alert signal, may be advantageously chosen, for example by a biomechanics expert, such as the physiotherapist mentioned above, according to criteria such as the morphology of the user (height, weight, etc.), his possible medical history, his gender or his age.
• the first predefined threshold value may be between 30 ° and 40 °, for example equal to 35 °.
• the first predefined threshold angular value can be parameterized definitively, or on the contrary temporarily.
• the first angular threshold value can be predefined, initially, so as to allow a significant instantaneous variation of the value of the first angle without generating a warning signal. primary. This promotes the adoption by the user of the system for detecting and correcting inappropriate postures by avoiding, at least in a first phase of use, the generation of too many primary warning signals, while the user is still very little aware of the postures that should be avoided.
• the signal processing unit can be configured with a first lower threshold angular value, so that the posture detection system tolerates a smaller instantaneous variation in the value of the first angle, i.e.
• the characteristics of the system 1 according to the invention allow detection and aid in correcting inappropriate postures adopted by the user, in real time, which is particularly simple and effective.
• the signal processing unit 6 is further configured to
• the feedback means 7 is then advantageously able to generate in real time a secondary alert signal perceptible by the user, in response to the reception of the secondary output signal supplied by the signal processing unit 6 .
• the signal processing unit 6 is also designed and configured to define first of all, from data representative of an instantaneous spatial configuration contained in the signals supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4, two planes P3, P4 (fictitious) attached to each of the sensor modules 3, 4.
• the planes P3, P4 thus defined then have, when the user adopts said initial straight posture (straight back), a relative spatial orientation of reference characterized by a second angle (b) of inclination of the fourth plane P4 with respect to the third plane P3, which presents, in projection in the transverse plane Pt of the user, a second initial value (bq).
• the transverse plane Pt - or transverse median plane - is a plane orthogonal to the sagittal plane Ps which divides the human body into two upper and lower halves.
• the second initial value may be zero, in which case the third and fourth planes P3, P4 are parallel or coincident (FIG. 6), or non-zero in which case the first and second planes P1, P2 intersect.
• third and fourth planes P3, P4 can be defined substantially vertical, parallel or coincident with one another, and orthogonal to the transverse plan Pt of the user, as in the example of Figure 6.
• the signal processing unit 6 is also designed and configured to determine, calculate, in real time, once the user has left their initial straight reference posture.
• an instantaneous value Db of variation of the value of the second angle with respect to said second initial value is derived from the signals supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4, and still from the signals supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4, an instantaneous value Db of variation of the value of the second angle with respect to said second initial value.
• an instantaneous value equal to the first initial value (Db zero)
• the signal processing unit 6 is thus also advantageously designed and configured to generate in real time, since the comparison which it has carried out has made it possible to identify that the instantaneous value Db of variation of the value of the second angle which is greater than the second predefined threshold angular value, a secondary output signal representative of the exceeding of this second predefined threshold angular value.
• the second predefined threshold angular value parameterized in the signal processing unit 6 and on the basis of which is therefore triggered the secondary alert signal, may be advantageously chosen (for example by an expert in biomechanics, such as the physiotherapist mentioned above) according to criteria such as the user's morphology (height, weight, etc.), his possible medical history, his gender or even his age.
• the second predefined threshold angular value can be parameterized definitively, or on the contrary temporarily. If it can optionally be designed, configured, so that the primary and secondary alert signals generated are visual or audible signals, the feedback means 7 is preferably designed, configured, to generate perceptible primary and secondary alert signals. touch.
• the feedback means 7 comprises at least one electromechanical mechanical vibrator, the support 2 being preferably designed to hold the latter in position facing the back of the user. More preferably, the feedback means 7 comprises a single and unique electromechanical vibrator, and the support 2 is then designed to hold this single electromechanical vibrator in position opposite a predefined localized stimulation zone 8 of the user's back. .
• the use of a single electromechanical vibrator makes it possible to avoid over-stressing the user, which would interfere with the latter in his daily activity, or even which could dissuade him from using the system 1 according to the invention.
• said predefined localized stimulation zone 8 of the back corresponds to a zone of the user's spine which is located between said predefined lumbar and thoracic zones 5A, 5B, and the support 2 is then preferably designed to keep said position in position.
• electromechanical vibrator in the immediate vicinity or, more advantageously still, in contact with the skin of the user's back.
• the system 1 according to the invention therefore allows haptic feedback to the user which is particularly effective, which makes it easier for the latter to learn the postures to be avoided.
• the signal processing unit 6 is configured to modulate the primary output signal as a function of the time during which the instantaneous value Da of variation of the first determined angle is greater than the first predefined threshold angular value.
• the signal processing unit 6 can be advantageously configured to modulate the secondary output signal as a function of the time during which the instantaneous value Db of variation of the second determined angle is greater than the second predefined threshold angular value.
• the feedback means 7 comprises one (or even more) electromechanical vibrator (s)
• said support 2 forms a harness 9 (in particular of the “holster” type) comprising a belt portion 9A, a pair of shoulder straps 9B, 9C for clamping each of the user's shoulders and a dorsal part 9D which connects the shoulder straps 9B, 9C to the belt part 9A, advantageously following the axis of the user's spine.
• said first and second support portions 2A, 2B, which respectively carry the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 are preferably both included in the dorsal part 9D of the harness 9.
• the harness 9 comprises means for adjusting (not shown) the shoulder straps 9B, 9C and / or the belt part 9A and / or the height of the dorsal part 9D (height measured along the axis of the spine of the user), in order to be able to best adapt to the morphology of the user.
• the signal processing unit 6 is, in the example of Figures 1 and 2, fixed to or in the thickness of a sling 9B of the harness 9. Alternatively, the signal processing unit 6 could be fixed to (or inside) the belt portion 9A.
• the support 2 could, alternatively, form a corset or an upper body garment, such as a tank top or a t-shirt.
• a support 2 in the form of a harness 9, and in particular of the “holster” type, as envisaged above, proves to be more comfortable in use, in particular for long wearing times (typically of the order of d. 'ten hours a day), both in terms of the user's freedom of movement and in terms of perspiration. It also allows more reliable and repeatable maintenance, over time, of the sensor modules 3, 4 in position facing the predefined lumbar and thoracic zones 5A, 5B.
• the support 2 (whether or not it forms a harness 9 as envisaged above) is made of flexible material, and more preferably at least partly of textile material, so as to make it comfortable for the user to wear.
• the support 2 can be formed from a synthetic textile material (for example knitted), optionally coated on an external face, and surrounding a synthetic foam.
• the support 2 is intended to be worn by the user in direct contact with his skin.
• the material (s) of the support 2 are advantageously chosen in particular with regard to their harmlessness vis-à-vis human skin, their chemical resistance vis-à-vis human sweat, as well as their ability to withstand hand or machine washing.
• the signal processing unit 6 comprises an internal memory for storing the first predefined threshold angular value, and more preferably also the second predefined threshold angular value.
• the internal memory is further configured to store all or part of the data contained in the first and second signals supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4, and / or data representative of the first initial value of the first angle, of the value Da instantaneous variation of the value of the first angle with respect to the first initial value, and / or data representative of the second initial value of the second angle (b), of the instantaneous Db value of variation of the value of the second angle by compared to the second initial value.
• the memory is also advantageously configured to store information relating to the user, and in particular data characteristic of the posture which corresponds, for a given user, to said initial upright posture.
• this data may include three-dimensional data generated by the magnetometers of the sensor modules 3, 4 while the user occupies said initial upright posture.
• the system 1 also comprises an electric power supply source, for electrically supplying the first and second sensor modules 2A, 2B and / or the signal processing unit 6 and / or the feedback means 7.
• the electric power source is a rechargeable accumulator battery, with a capacity advantageously chosen to allow use of the system 1 of approximately ten consecutive hours.
• the electric power source is carried by, on board, the support 2.
• the sensor modules 3, 4 are encapsulated in two separate, advantageously waterproof cases.
• these boxes are respectively fixed removably using any suitable fixing means (for example using a fixing means of the velor-hook type or by snap-fastening) on a surface of the first and second support portions 2A, 2B opposite to the surface intended to be positioned facing the user's back.
• the first and second support portions 2A, 2B each comprise a pocket or an internal recess, advantageously accessible from the outside, and within which or of which is housed the housing containing the corresponding sensor module 3, 4. .
• said support 2 may comprise rigid reinforcement means (for example made of metal or plastic) in order to ensure optimum retention in position of the boxes containing the sensor modules 3, 4, on or inside the first and second portions 2A, 2B of the support 2.
• the sensor modules 3, 4 are connected to the signal processing unit 6 by means of electrical conductor wires fixed, preferably removably, to the surface of the support 2.
• these electric conductive wires are integrated into the very thickness of the support 2.
• the sensor modules 3, 4 are removably connected to the signal processing unit 6, for example. using removable electrical connectors.
• the signal processing unit 6 is encapsulated in a housing, distinct from the housings containing the sensor modules 3, 4, and advantageously waterproof.
• the housing enclosing the signal processing unit 6 can be advantageously fixed to a part or portion of the support 2 (such as a strap, as envisaged above), in the same way as envisaged above with regard to housings containing the sensor modules 3,4.
• the electrical power source is encapsulated in the same box as the signal processing unit 6.
• the feedback means 7 can be encapsulated in one or more boxes, preferably waterproof and separate (s). housings enclosing the sensor modules 3, 4 and the signal processing unit 6.
• the housing or housings containing the feedback means 7 can then be fixed to the support 2 in the manner described above for the sensor modules 3, 4 It is also conceivable, in the case where the feedback means 7 comprises one or more electromechanical vibrators (and preferably, a single and unique electromechanical vibrator) and where the support 2 is at least partly made of textile material, that the ( vibrator (s) self (s) embedded in a resin coating the surface of the textile, or the vibrator (s) self (s) embedded in a resin and arranged (s) s) in a housing made in the textile so that the vibrator (s) is (are) flush with the surface of the support 2, or even that the vibrator (s) is (are) received in a or several textile pockets sewn on or made in the textile of the support 2, and preferably open so as to be able to extract the vibrator (s) therefrom.
• the feedback means 7 comprises one or more electromechanical vibrators (and preferably, a single and unique electromechanical vibrator) and where the support 2 is at least partly made of
• the system according to the invention can also comprise a communication unit (not illustrated), preferably carried by the individual support 2, and which is connected to the signal processing unit 6.
• the communication unit is designed and configured to establish a data communication link with a remote computer terminal 10 and to transmit to the latter data received and / or generated by the signal processing unit 6 with a view to their storage and / or their post-processing computer (and / or their display in graphic form) using a dedicated software application executed by said computer terminal 10
• the communication unit is also configured to receive data from said computer terminal 10, such as, for example, data for configuring the operation of the sensor modules 3, 4 and / or of the processing unit 6 (first and second predetermined threshold angular values defined, data relating to the user's morphology, etc.).
• the communication unit is encapsulated in the same housing as the signal processing unit 6.
• the remote computer terminal 10 can, for example, be a multifunction mobile telephone (FIGS. 1 and 2) or a computer. staff.
• the communication unit can be provided to establish said data communication link continuously, throughout the use of the system 1 by the user, or temporarily (for example at the start and at the end of use. ).
• the communication unit is designed and configured to establish a wireless data communication link with the computer terminal 10.
• the communication unit comprises a radiofrequency transceiver designed to establish a "Bluetooth" connection.
• the system 1 comprises said computer terminal 10, as well as a remote computer server 11 (for example, of the “cloud” server type) capable of establishing a data communication link with the computer terminal 10 in order to transmit to the server.
• a remote computer server 11 for example, of the “cloud” server type
• the communication unit is provided to transmit to the computer terminal 10 data received and / or generated by the signal processing unit 6 with a view to their storage (at least temporary) only, the computer server 11 being configured to carry out any post-processing of the data received and / or generated by the signal processing unit 6, which the t Computer terminal 10.
• the result of the computer post-processing by the computer server 11 can be transmitted in return to the computer terminal 10, for example for making it available for presentation to the user.
• the remote computer terminal 10 and / or the remote computer server 11 can be advantageously configured to analyze data received and / or generated by the signal processing unit 6 for statistical purposes (for example to establish a daily report of activity specific to the user), but also with a view to reconstructing postural sequences by calculating them in order to allow the user to better identify the dynamic behaviors likely to lead to the adoption of an inappropriate posture.
• the system 1 according to the invention forms an individual tool for prevention and therapeutic education, because it makes it possible to learn the appropriate postures for a user, that is to say how to adapt his behavior to avoid inadequate postures potentially posing a health risk.
• the system 1 comprises, in addition to said computer server 11, a plurality of individual media 2 conforming to the detailed description which has been given above, and intended to be carried on them by a plurality of users. (for example a set of users from the same family, from the same company and / or from the same profession), a plurality of corresponding signal processing units 6, as well as a plurality of computer terminals 10 distant, each used by (or in connection with) one of said users.
• the computer server 11 can then be configured to establish a data communication link with each of said computer terminals, and thus receive from them data received and / or generated by each of the signal processing units 6 and / or each of the terminals.
• System 1 of the invention therefore advantageously constitutes in this respect a collective tool for prevention and therapeutic education, which is also of interest in terms of research, since it makes it possible to better identify and analyze the inadequate postures linked to a field. activity, as well as the postures most harmful to health, in order to replace them with appropriate postures.
• the support 2 is advantageously designed so as to have a total mass typically less than 1.5 kg, preferably less than 1 kg, and preferably still less than or equal to approximately 800 g.
• the invention also relates, as such, to a method for detecting and helping to correct the posture of at least one user.
• the method according to the invention is preferably intended to be implemented using a system in accordance with the invention, such as the latter has been presented above. .
• the method according to the invention first of all comprises a step E1 for equipping the user with an individual support 2 intended to be worn on him by the user.
• Said support 2 comprises a first support portion 2A carrying a first sensor module 3 and holding in position, preferably firmly, the first sensor module 3 facing a predefined lumbar zone 5A of the user's back, the first sensor module 4 providing a first signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration, and a second support portion 2B carrying a second sensor module 4 and holding in position, preferably firmly, the second sensor module 4 facing a predefined thoracic zone 5B of the back of the user, at a distance from said first sensor module 3, the second sensor module 4 providing a second signal characteristic of its instantaneous spatial configuration.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 thus constitute posture sensors.
• the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 constitute the one and only posture sensors carried by said support 2.
• Support 2 also carries feedback means 7. This fitting step is advantageously carried out by the user. - even, without special external assistance.
• the support 2, the first and second sensor modules 3, 4, the predefined lumbar and thoracic areas 5A, 5B and the feedback means 7 are advantageously in accordance with the description which has been made above in connection with the system according to l invention, so it is not necessary to describe them in more detail here.
• the individual support 2 preferably forms a harness 9 (in particular of the “holster” type) comprising a belt part 9A, a pair of shoulder straps 9B, 9C to enclose each of the user's shoulders and a back part 9D which connects the shoulder straps 9B, 9C to the belt part 9A.
• a harness 9 in particular of the “holster” type
• the individual support 2 preferably forms a harness 9 (in particular of the “holster” type) comprising a belt part 9A, a pair of shoulder straps 9B, 9C to enclose each of the user's shoulders and a back part 9D which connects the shoulder straps 9B, 9C to the belt part 9A.
• the method according to the invention comprises, following the step E1 of equipping the user with the support 2, a step E2A of definition from the first and second signals supplied by the first and second sensor modules 3, 4, and while the user assigns the initial upright posture described above, of a first plane P1 (fictitious) attached to the first sensor module 3 and of a second plane P2 attached to the second sensor module 4, which first plane P1 and second plane P2 are then initially inclined with respect to each other at a first angle a which presents, in projection in the sagittal plane Ps of the user, a first initial value (aq).
• this step E2A of defining the first and second reference planes P1, P2 can be carried out (at least in the context of a first implementation of the method according to the invention by the user) with the assistance of 'a physiotherapist, who helps the user to identify said initial right posture (straight back) and to adopt it, at least the time to carry out the step of defining the first and second planes P1, P2.
• each of the two sensor modules 3, 4 comprises a tri-axis gyroscope, a tri-axis accelerometer, as well as a tri-axis magnetometer
• the definition of the first and second planes P1, P2 can be advantageously produced from the three-dimensional data supplied by the magnetometers of the first and second sensor modules 3, 4.
• the method according to the invention comprises a step E3A of processing in real time the first and second signals supplied by sensor modules 3, 4, the user having typically left said initial upright posture.
• This processing step includes:
• this determination operation can be carried out by calculation from the instantaneous three-dimensional data generated by the three-axis accelerometers and / or the three-axis gyroscopes of the sensor modules 3, 4 and contained in the first and second signals supplied by these last ;
• this step E3A of processing in real time the signals supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4 is carried out using a signal processing unit 6 in accordance with the description which has been given above in connection with the system 1 according to the invention.
• said signal processing unit is then carried by, on board, the individual support 2 with which the user is equipped.
• the first predefined threshold angular value could be advantageously chosen (for example by an expert in biomechanics, such as the physiotherapist mentioned above) according to criteria such as the morphology of the user (height, weight, etc.), his possible medical history, his gender or his age.
• the first predefined threshold angular value can be parameterized definitively, or on the contrary temporarily.
• said first predefined threshold angular value could be between 30 ° and 40 °, and for example be equal to 35 °.
• the method according to the invention also comprises a step E4A of generation in real time, by said feedback means 7, of a primary alert signal perceptible by the user, in response to the reception by said feedback means 7 of said feedback means 7. primary output signal thus supplied.
• the characteristics of method 1 according to the invention allow detection and assistance in correcting inappropriate postures adopted by the user, in real time, which is particularly simple and effective.
• the method according to the invention further comprises:
• a definition step E2B from the first and second signals supplied by said first and second sensor modules 3, 4, and while the user still assigns said initial upright posture, of a third (fictitious) plane P3 attached to the first sensor module 3 and a fourth (fictitious) plane P4 attached to the second sensor module 4, which third plane P3 and fourth plane P4 are then initially inclined with respect to each other at a second angle (b) which presents, in projection in the transverse plane Pt of the user, a second initial value (bq).
• this definition step complementary to the third and fourth plane P3, P4 is carried out simultaneously with (or immediately following, or again immediately before) the aforementioned step E2A of defining the first and second planes P1, P2;
• this complementary processing step E3B is carried out simultaneously with the first processing step E3A mentioned above, using a signal processing unit in accordance with the description which has been given above.
• the second predefined threshold angular value could be advantageously chosen (for example by an expert in biomechanics, such as the physiotherapist mentioned above) according to criteria such as the morphology of the user (height, weight, etc.), his possible medical history, his gender or his age.
• the second predefined threshold angular value can be parameterized definitively, or on the contrary temporarily.
• the method according to the invention then also comprises a step E4B of generation in real time, by said feedback means 7, of a secondary alert signal perceptible by the user, in response to the reception by said feedback means. of said secondary output signal thus supplied.
• This step E4B of generating the secondary alert signal can be performed simultaneously with the step of the step E3B of generating the secondary alert signal, so that the secondary alert signal can be superimposed on the alert signal primary, or be used to modulate the primary alert signal (eg intensity).
• the feedback means 7 of the individual support 2 implemented by the method according to the invention preferably comprises at least one electromechanical vibrator, the support 2 preferably holding the latter in position facing the back of the user. More preferably, the feedback means 7 comprises a single electromechanical vibrator 7, and the support 2 then maintains this single electromechanical vibrator in position next to a predefined localized stimulation zone of the user's back.
• said predefined localized stimulation zone 8 of the back corresponds to a zone of the user's spine which is situated between said predefined lumbar and thoracic zones 5A, 5B (FIG. 2), and the support 2 advantageously maintains in position the electromechanical vibrator in the immediate vicinity or, more advantageously still, in contact with the skin of the user's back.
• the primary output signal is modulated as a function of the time during which the instantaneous value Da of variation of the first angle (a) determined is greater than the first predefined threshold angular value, the primary warning signal generated by the means feedback being modulated back according to the modulation of the primary output signal.
• the secondary output signal is modulated as a function of the time during which the instantaneous value Db of variation of the second determined angle is greater than the second predefined threshold angular value.
• the method according to the invention also preferably comprises a step E5 of transmission to a remote computer terminal 10 of data supplied and / or generated during all or part of said steps E2A, E2B, E3A and E3B, with a view to storing them and / or submitting them to a computer post-processing step E6 (and / or their display in graphic form) using a dedicated software application executed by said computer terminal 10.
• This step E5 of transmission is advantageously carried out using a communication unit in accordance with that described above in connection with the system 1 according to the invention.
• the method according to the invention can also advantageously comprise a step E7 of transmission, from the computer terminal 10 to a remote computer server 11 (for example, of the “cloud” server type), of data supplied and / or generated during all or part of said steps E2A, E2B, E3A, E3B and E6 (in the case where the method comprises said step E6 of computer post-processing) with a view to their storage and / or to subject them to a step E8 of computer post-processing to using a dedicated software application executed by said computer server 11.
• a remote computer server 11 for example, of the “cloud” server type
• the method according to the invention may further comprise a step E9 of return transmission, from the computer server 11 to the computer terminal 10, of data generated during said step E8 of computer post-processing, for example for the provision of, the presentation to the user of said data.
• the method according to the invention does not include step E6 of computer post-processing of the data by the computer terminal 10, and that any post processing of the data received and / or generated by the signal processing unit 6 is carried out by said computer server 11 during the computer post-processing step E8.
• the step E2A of defining the first and second reference planes P1, P2 (as well as preferably the step E2B of defining the third and fourth reference planes P3, P4) comprises an operation 04A of memorizing (for example, in the memory of the signal processing unit) the data supplied by the sensor modules 3, 4 and used to define the reference planes P1, P2, P3, P4 while the user assigns the initial upright posture.
• These stored data can thus constitute, for the user concerned, reference data representative of the initial upright posture.
• these data can be three-dimensional data generated by the magnetometers of the sensor modules 3, 4.
• step E2A of defining the first and second reference planes P1, P2 may then include an operation 05 for comparing the instantaneous data supplied by the first and second sensor modules 3, 4 with the data thus probably stored, and a simultaneous operation 06 for guiding the user (via, by example, of a guidance signal generated by the feedback means 7 or of information displayed on a screen of the remote computer terminal 10 mentioned above) to cause the latter to adopt a posture in which the instantaneous data provided by the two sensor modules 3, 4 correspond to the data thus probably stored, that is to say to bring the user into the initial upright posture.
• the first and second reference planes P1, P2 (and preferably also the third and fourth reference planes P3, P4)
• the invention finds application in the general technical field of systems and methods for controlling the posture of a person's back, in particular in the context of controlling the health risks posed by the adoption of poor back postures.

Landscapes

• Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
• Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• Surgery (AREA)
• General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Biomedical Technology (AREA)
• Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
• Medical Informatics (AREA)
• Molecular Biology (AREA)
• Biophysics (AREA)
• Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
• Pathology (AREA)
• Public Health (AREA)
• Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
• Physiology (AREA)
• Dentistry (AREA)
• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (AREA)
• Geometry (AREA)
• Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
• Measurement Of The Respiration, Hearing Ability, Form, And Blood Characteristics Of Living Organisms (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=69024307

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (3)

Families Citing this family (4)

Family Cites Families (1)

• 2019
  • 2019-07-26 FR FR1908557A patent/FR3099041B1/fr active Active
• 2020
  • 2020-07-16 EP EP20754322.4A patent/EP4003149A1/de active Pending
  • 2020-07-16 WO PCT/FR2020/051279 patent/WO2021019142A1/fr not_active Ceased

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events