ALTEC, INC.
P.O. Box 15734
Boston, MA 02215
Phone:
PI:
Topic#:	(617) 236-0599
Carlo J. De Luca
ARMY 97-017
Title:	Sensor and Software for Monitoring Muscle Fatigue
Abstract:	We propose to develop an Electromyographic (EMG) system consisting of a high-performance EMG sensor, signal amplification and conditioning circuitry and a transmitter/receiver. The system will be attached to the skin, above the muscle(s) of interest, on soldiers performing training exercises and maneuvers. The specifications of the transmitter will be designed in collaboration with the Chem-Bio Defense Command, the Army Medical Command, the Human Engineering Directorate, and the Soldier System at Natick. The transmitted EMG signal will be analyzed to determine the rate of muscle fatigue by tracking the median frequency from the power density spectrum of the signal. This is a well-established technique for static muscle contraction. Because it is required to analyze dynamic muscle contraction, a new signal processing technique must be developed. We will use Time-Frequency analysis techniques for this purpose. The new technique will be tested on synthetic EMG signals and on real EMG signals detected from back muscles during lifting maneuvers. The new signal analysis technique will provide, for the first time, means to monitor the shift in the spectral characteristics of the EMG signal during short burst contractions which occur during daily functional activities.
ORBITAL RESEARCH, INC.
11000 Cedar Ave, Suite 461
Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone:
PI:
Topic#:	(216) 791-6720
Mohammad Modarreszadeh
ARMY 97-017
Title:	Ambulatory Muscle Fatigue Monitor
Abstract:	Fatigue is a phenomena that accompanies repeated muscular exertion. The ability of the muscle to produce force is reduced as fatigue occurs. Local muscle fatigue is manifested in electromyography (EMG) signals by a shift in the EMG power spectrum from high to low frequencies. By utilizing this phenomena it is possible to monitor local muscle fatigue in soldiers as they perform mission related tasks. Cleveland Medical Devices will design a complete ambulatory muscle fatigue monitor that will utilize wireless telemetry and advanced signal processing techniques to allow researchers to record and monitor muscle fatigue in soldiers without the need to be tethered to a cumbersome EMG monitor. For the Phase I program, Cleveland Medical Devices will design a small, lightweight, unobtrusive three channel differential EMG amplifier/transmitter using proven wireless technology to digitize and transmit the EMG data to a PC compatible computer for storage and data processing. Then the mean power frequency of the EMG signal will be calculated and used to indicate local muscle fatigue. BENEFITS: There are many potential commercial applications for small, rugged three channel telemetry devices. Some potential biological applications are: rehabilitation, physical therapy, medical research, ergonomic design of equipment and tasks, and remote patient care. Some other commercial applications are: vehicle monitoring, robotic communications, short range voice communications, wireless data acquisition, simple local area networks and industrial process monitoring and control.
QUEST INTEGRATED, INC.
21414 68th Ave. South
Kent, WA 98032
Phone:
PI:
Topic#:	(253) 872-1396
Roger Johnson
ARMY 97-018
Title:	Small-Arms Shooting-Accuracy Measurement Systems
Abstract:	A small-arms training, shooting accuracy, and scoring system is proposed. A set of accelerometers, force sensors, video array, lens, battery, and RF modulator will be contained in a special shock-isolation mount. The entire module will weigh approximately three ounces and will transmit video and multichannel sensor data using spread-spectrum wireless technology. Scoring will be accomplished with a nearby video camera mounted on a tripod and coupled to an ISA bus (PC) image-processing board that will determine the position of bullet holes in the target. Target tracking data will be accomplished with the boresighted video camera also contained in the shock mount. Another image-processing board in the PC will constantly determine the two-dimensional coordinates of the target. For night training, an infrared light source will illuminate the target. All shooting events will be video compressed and archived for later review. All sensors, video array and lens, and datalinks will be tested and evaluated on AR-15 rifles. BENEFITS: The same system could be used in commercial firing ranges for training purposes as it provides a history of an individual's progress in proper shooting technique.
SYNETICS CORP.
16539 Commerce Drive, Suite 10
King George, VA 22485
Phone:
PI:
Topic#:	(540) 663-2137
Robert D. Moran
ARMY 97-018
Title:	Small Arms Shooting Accuracy Measurement System
Abstract:	The U.S. Army depends on shooting accuracy for effectiveness on the battlefield, yet the factors that affect accuracy, including body sway, recoil, recoil anticipation, flinching, and trigger pull tension,are not well understood. Currently there is a need for a system that can measure these factors and construct a firing analysis that details the effects on shooting accuracy from these factors. Synetics proposes a shooting analysis system that takes advantage of low-cost, very light rate sensors to measure shooter motion. This technique combined with a CCD camera, a laser pointing device, and wireless communication will yield a detailed profile of shooter motion during the firing process. This information will be graphically displayed in real time to the operator via developed software and graphics tools. This system will help improve shooter accuracy and possibly contribute to a new long-term approach to shooting instruction. BENEFITS: Potential post applications for the shooting analysis system include extensive target range applications for military and police use. Also, a version of the system may be used for analysis in the recreational shooting industry.