muscle bike sensor

Problem

In the class called Circuits and Electronics: Device Invention, the assignment was to invent something useful that had not already been invented.

Objective

To create technology that would help amateur bikers have an easier and safer time on the road.

Skills Employed

Arduino
Myoelectric control system
Wireless control using XBEEs

Image of Wireless Muscle Sensor Bike Signal Prototype

Figure 1. Wireless Muscle Sensor Bike Signal Prototype, Myo Data was between values that signaled a right turn.

Figure 2. Wireless Muscle Sensor Bike Signal Prototype, Myo Data was above the threshold that signaled a left turn.

Approach

After reviewing technical data sheets and instructions for use of the Myoware Sensor, I began by selecting a muscle group that would provide a stable reading of values. I tested out the sensor by flexing and trying to retreieve and read the values from the sensor.
For the LED neopixel display, I was able to test out the patterns I could make with the LED display and work with available code to create a moving arrow display!
I established a threshold based on my personal data points. I used ranges of values and a threshold to allow for different actions. If the value of the sensor was reading between 300 and 500, the LED grid would signal a right turn. If the value of the sensor was reading above 500, the LED grid would signal a left turn.

Results

The wireless bike turn signal was successfully prototyped. Looking back, while this is an intriguing idea for a device to help amataur bikers, there are also many areas of improvement. For instance, I believe that another location for the myoware muscle sensor may be more appropriate during cycling - to avoid unwanted actuation of the device. Additionally, since the thresholds were based on my personal data, it would be helpful to either have a calibration step to allow for a larger user population and/or to create a more robust design.