The portable microprocessor functions as the central nervous system for dynamic gait analysis, bridging the gap between raw physical movement and digital analysis. Its primary role is to receive analog signals from force-sensitive sensor shoes via flexible cables, immediately perform analog-to-digital conversion, and store high-frequency pressure data in real-time.
By decoupling data collection from bulky stationary equipment, this unit ensures that gait trajectories and force distribution metrics reflect authentic, natural walking states rather than artificial laboratory movements.
Data Acquisition and Processing
Interfacing with Sensor Shoes
The microprocessor acts as the direct termination point for force-sensitive sensor shoes. It utilizes flexible cables to maintain a constant, hardwired connection to the sensors located beneath the user's feet.
Real-Time Signal Conversion
A critical technical function is analog-to-digital conversion. The unit takes the continuous analog voltage changes caused by foot pressure and instantly translates them into digital data points usable for analysis.
High-Frequency Data Storage
The device is engineered for real-time data reception. It captures and locally stores high-frequency pressure data, ensuring that rapid changes in force distribution during the heel-strike and toe-off phases are preserved without latency.
Enabling Natural Mobility
Lightweight, Belt-Mounted Design
To prevent the equipment from altering the test results, the microprocessor features a lightweight chassis designed to be worn on the waist. This belt-mounted configuration distributes weight centrally, minimizing its impact on the user's balance.
Elimination of Stationary Tethers
The system operates independently of bulky stationary equipment. This autonomy allows the user to move freely through a room or corridor, rather than being restricted to a treadmill or a small force plate area.
Supporting Extended Distances
The portability allows for standard 20-meter walking tests. This distance is sufficient for the user to establish a natural rhythm, ensuring the captured gait trajectories are representative of their true walking style.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Managing Physical Connections
Despite its portability, the system relies on wired connections between the waist unit and the shoes. Care must be taken to route these flexible cables so they do not snag or restrict the user's stride length.
Dependence on Onboard Resources
As a mobile unit, the microprocessor is limited by its onboard storage and power. Unlike computer-tethered systems, users must verify that the device has sufficient battery life and memory capacity prior to initiating long-duration tests.
Maximizing Data Quality in Dynamic Testing
To get the most out of this portable technology, align your setup with your specific testing goals:
- If your primary focus is signal fidelity: Secure the flexible cables tightly against the leg to prevent motion artifacts from interfering with the analog-to-digital conversion process.
- If your primary focus is natural gait assessment: Take full advantage of the wireless freedom to conduct tests over the full 20-meter distance, allowing the subject to normalize their walking speed away from the start point.
The portable microprocessor effectively moves the laboratory to the user, capturing high-fidelity data without sacrificing the natural biomechanics of walking.
Summary Table:
| Core Function | Technical Implementation | Practical Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Signal Processing | Analog-to-digital conversion | Translates foot pressure into usable digital data |
| Data Acquisition | High-frequency real-time storage | Captures rapid force changes without data loss |
| Mobility Support | Belt-mounted, lightweight design | Ensures natural gait during 20m walking tests |
| Connectivity | Flexible cable interfacing | Maintains stable connection with sensor shoes |
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References
- Harald Hefter, Sara Samadzadeh. Effects of Combined Vibration Ergometry and Botulinum Toxin on Gait Improvement in Asymmetric Lower Limb Spasticity: A Pilot Study. DOI: 10.3390/jfmk10010041
This article is also based on technical information from 3515 Knowledge Base .
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