Authors:
Ana S. Silva
1
;
Antonio J. Salazar
1
;
Miguel F. Correia
1
and
Carla M. Borges
2
Affiliations:
1
Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering of Porto (INESC Porto), Portugal
;
2
Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), Portugal
Keyword(s):
Wearable, Monitoring device, Biomechanical parameters, MEMS, Swimming analysis.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Biomechanical Devices
;
Biomedical Engineering
;
Biomedical Instrumentation
;
Biomedical Instruments and Devices
;
Biomedical Sensors
;
Hardware
;
MEMS
;
Sensor Networks
;
Wireless Systems
Abstract:
Advances in sensor technology, electronic textile integration, and integrated circuits have introduced a paradigm shift in the way most researchers approach signal monitoring. In recent years, devices such as body sensor networks (BSN) allow for direct on-body physiological and biomechanical parameters measurements. Such technology allows for a more in depth analysis of an athlete’s performance, without affecting the results due to awkward wires or uncomfortable carry-on devices. Miniaturization and other achievements allow a more seamless interaction with the individual, permitting a more natural behaviour during the monitoring session. The project BIOSWIM (Body Interface System based on Wearable Integration Monitorization) is a joint multidisciplinary effort of a number of Portuguese universities which seeks a pervasive monitoring solution for performance, physiological and biomechanical signals from a swimmer under normal training conditions. In order to achieve such an undertakin
g a swimsuit prototype was developed with truly integrated EKG textile sensors; which will work in conjunction with a wearable inertial monitoring unit (WIMU) and a wearable chemical monitoring unit. This article focuses on the WIMU, which serves as the biomechanical data processing unit of the system.
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