Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations. In this invention, the system (100) uses a MEMS accelerometer embedded device (102) to record raw vibration data which is used by various other elements (104-120) to evaluate key metrics for WBV assessment such as A(8), VDV, CF, EAV duration and ELV duration. This invention overcomes the problem of regular and extensive measurement of WBV, which is a challenging task due to the cost of measuring equipment and the complexity of their operation. The method involves testing of the MEMS accelerometer device to screen for device suitability, prior to actual measurement. This is followed by alignment of the axes for actual measurement, recording, transmitting and validating the recorded vibrations on the seat of interest and processing of data to obtain WBV metrics. Figure 1
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The embodiments of the present invention are generally related to the measurement of Whole-Body Vibrations (hereafter called ‘WBV’). The embodiments of the present invention are particularly related to a system and method for measurement of WBV in vehicles. The embodiments of the present invention are more particularly related to a system and method for preliminary assessment and/or monitoring of WBV exposure in vehicles using an embedded Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) accelerometer device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The following description is presented for a better understanding of the present invention and its significance. It is not an admission that any/all the information provided herein is prior art or is claimed as an invention. The essential elements of the invention are provided in our claims that follow.
[0003] Intense and prolonged WBV exposure causes many health problems such as lower back pain, gastrointestinal disorders, reduced alertness, etc. Studies indicate that professional drivers and operators (hereafter called ‘drivers’) of various automobiles, and industrial/ earth-moving equipment (hereafter called ‘vehicles’), often exceed the threshold levels of WBV, exposing the drivers to serious health hazards.
[0004] To mitigate these hazards, ISO 2631-1(2016) Standard defines the WBV measurement method and the Health Guidance Caution Zone(HGCZ) to interpret the measurements. The recommended method involves the measurement of the 8-hour Vibration Dose Value(VDV) represented by Total VDV when severe transient shocks are present, and the 8-hour frequency-weighted root mean square (RMS) acceleration represented by A(8) otherwise. The Crest Factor (CF) value of 9 or more indicates the presence of severe transient shocks or jerks.
[0005] The ISO Standard describes two boundary values of WBV exposure, viz. Exposure Action Value (hereafter called ‘EAV’) and Exposure Limit Value (hereafter called ‘ELV’). Specifically, when the daily exposure value exceeds EAV, it is recommended to exercise caution and regular monitoring. On the other hand, when the exposure exceeds ELV, corrective actions are recommended before the resumption of operations. When the daily exposure level is above ELV it is deemed necessary to halt operations. Implementation of interventions may be necessary to reduce vibrations below the recommended values before resuming operations.
[0006] The standard equipment for measuring WBV, comprising a seat pad accelerometer, data logger, accessories and custom-built software is expensive. Conducting experiments and interpreting results is also complex, requiring adequate training. This makes widespread measurement of WBV a challenging task. Hence, WBV measurement is often neglected risking the driver's health.
[0007] Advancements in sensors have made them more accurate and compact. With one such class of sensors, MEMS accelerometers, it is possible to detect small, precise movements in real-time. The capability of MEMS accelerometers is evident from their widespread use in industrial applications for equipment condition monitoring and failure analysis. MEMS accelerometers are also embedded into smartphones for performing various applications such as gaming that require measuring the accelerometer data reliably.
[0008] Some inventions use economical devices for driver safety, vehicular control etc. that are patented. For instance, Indian Patent 476763 is granted for a system and a method for controlling vehicle components using a smartphone. Indian Patent 519150 is granted for safety indicators of vehicles which may display indicators on the rear glass of the vehicle. Another Indian Patent 552048 is granted for a wearable safety system that may involve a wearable safety device which sends distress signals to a mobile application which then alerts the emergency contacts. However, none of the inventions cater to preliminary assessment/monitoring of WBV exposure in a simple and economical manner.
[0009] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations as detailed in this section. The above-mentioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed and will be understood by reading and studying the following specifications.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The primary objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to introduce a method and system for preliminary assessment of WBV levels in a simple and economical manner.
[0011] Another objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to facilitate regular monitoring of WBV and recommend the tentative exposure duration when the 8-hour vibrations exceed the EAV.
[0012] Yet another objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to make a provision for batch processing which permits the batch assessment/monitoring of WBV hazards on multiple vehicles or trips.
[0013] Yet another objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to store the analyzed data for future reference. Storing of WBV levels is also recommended for monitoring purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The following details present a simplified summary of the embodiments of the present invention to provide a basic understanding of the several aspects of the embodiments of the present invention relating to preliminary assessment of WBV. This summary is not an extensive overview of the embodiments of the present invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the embodiments of the present invention or to delineate the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Its sole purpose is to present the concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0015] These and other aspects of the embodiments of the present invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments of the present invention include all such modifications.
[0016] The embodiments of the present invention provide a system for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device. The system may include a modular unit with an embedded MEMS accelerometer. The system comprises a Control Unit which receives and displays the recorded vibration data with a time stamp for physical correlation. The control unit is further configured to receive multiple equipment /trip data and store the results for future use.
[0017] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to evaluate A(8) - the daily average exposure, based on the vibrations experienced during the measurement period and the expected exposure duration in a day. The system further comprises a CF evaluator to determine the presence of shocks or jerks. The system further includes a VDV evaluator, which is a metric for WBV assessment in the presence of shocks or jerks.
[0018] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the system evaluates the Exposure Action Value (EAV) based on the CF value that determines the appropriate methodology for the evaluation. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the system further evaluates the Exposure Limit Value (ELV) that indicates the maximum duration for the exposure to reach dangerous levels. According to the embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises a display unit which displays the WBV metrics based on the recorded exposure and duty cycle.
[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for preliminary assessment of WBV exposure using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device. The method comprises steps for validating the MEMS accelerometer embedded device, aligning and affixing the device on the seat of interest and recording the vibration data. The method also comprises transmitting the vibration data to the control unit, validating the recorded raw data by physical correlation of vibrations using the time stamp. The method further comprises processing the raw vibration data to generate WBV metrics – A(8), CF and VDV.
[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises batch processing of multiple vehicle / trip data by utilizing the batch processing feature. The method still further comprises utilizing batch option. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises evaluating WBV recommendations – EAV and ELV, and storing of all the WBV metrics and recommendations.
[0021] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments of the present invention will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt specific embodiments of the present invention without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments of the present invention.
[0022] It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments of the present invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments of the present invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0023] The accompanying drawings incorporated in the disclosure illustrate exemplary embodiments and constitute a part of this disclosure together with the description and explanations of the disclosed principles. The other objects, features and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings in which,
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a functional block diagram of the system for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] The detailed description hereunder may be considered only for understanding purposes. In this description, a reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which the specific embodiments of the present invention that may be practised are shown by way of illustration. These embodiments of the present invention are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments of the present invention and it is to be understood that the logical, mechanical and other modifications and deviations may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. While the examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense while the true scope of the invention is furnished in the claims that follow.
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a functional block diagram of a system (100) for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system (100) may include a recorder of vibration data (102), a control unit (104), a batch-mode analyzer (106), an A(8) evaluator to measure 8-hr average vibration magnitude (110), a vibration dose value (VDV) evaluator (112), a crest factor evaluator (114), an exposure action value (EAV) estimator (116), an exposure limit value (ELV) estimator (118), and a display unit (120).
[0028] In an embodiment, the MEMS accelerometer device (102) can be a standalone device or a modular device with an embedded MEMS accelerometer(s) that records the raw vibration data comprising of triaxial accelerations (along x, y and z-axes) with a time stamp and transmits this data to the control unit (104) via suitable wireless or wired communication modes. The wireless communication mode can be in various forms such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Near Field Communication (NFC) or any other alternative. The wired communication mode can be via a USB cable or any other alternative. In a non-limiting example, the vibration data recorder may be a modular unit, such as a smartphone or a tablet which have an embedded MEMS accelerometer(s).
[0029] In an embodiment, the control unit (104) may include suitable logic, circuitry, and /or interface code that may receive the vibration raw data from the vibration data recorder (102), display it for validation and store it for future use. In a non-limiting example, the control unit (102) can be formed as a microprocessor-based circuitry/logic card configured for the purpose or the CPU of a desktop computer, or a laptop that may also compactly include the display unit (120). In the latter form, it may be easier for the user to process the vibration data, display the WBV metrics and store for future use. The control unit (104) may receive the user information on the duration for which the vibrations as per the experiment are experienced in an eight-hour shift/day. This information may be used for further analysis. The stored vibration data is provided to downstream elements along with user information which may be used by A(8) evaluator (110), vibration dose value (VDV) evaluator (112), crest factor evaluator (114), exposure action value (EAV) estimator (116), and exposure limit value (ELV) estimator (118).
[0030] The Crest Factor Evaluator (114), denoted by CF, is an indicator of the shocks or jerks in the vibrations. The CF Evaluator (114) obtains raw vibration data from the Control Unit (104) to evaluate the CF value based on the description herein. The ISO 2631-1 Standard provides guidance on the significance of CF in evaluating human vibration exposure. CF value is defined as the ratio of peak acceleration (apeak) to root mean squared acceleration (arms) of the vibration signal.
Mathematically, CF=a_peak/a_rms
The CF value of the given vibrations signal determines the method to be used for evaluation of the WBV. When the CF value is below or up to 9, it indicates relatively steady vibrations without any major jerks or shocks, in which case, the daily vibration exposure denoted by A(8) is the preferred measure to assess the vibration exposure. On the other hand, when the CF value is above 9, it indicates the presence of transient shocks in which case, A(8) alone may not be sufficient to assess the hazards to human health. In this case, VDV is the relevant measure to assess the vibration exposure.
[0031] The A(8) Evaluator (110) measures the daily vibration exposure or 8-hour equivalent continuous acceleration that is used in WBV assessment to quantify the daily vibration exposure level. The A(8) units are meters per second squared (m/s2). The A(8) Evaluator (110) receives the vibration signal recorded by MEMS accelerometer device (102) and stored in the control unit and applies frequency weights, directional weight factors and daily exposure duration to the vibration signal.
ii) Directional and Frequency weightages: To account for the varying sensitivity of the human body to vibration in different directions, weights are applied to each axis. These are kx and ky for horizontal axes (x and y-axes respectively) set at 1.4 and kz for the vertical axis (z-axis) set at 1.0. This is to account for the greater sensitivity of the human body to horizontal axes compared to vertical axis based on the recommendations of ISO 2631-1 Standard. Human body also differs in its sensitivity to different vibration frequencies. Accordingly, the frequency weightings are applied and root mean square acceleration is obtained.
Mathematically,
a_w=(1/T ?_0^T¦(a(t))^2 dt)
Where a(t) is the acceleration at time t and T is the test / experiment exposure duration. When the weighted exposure duration is different from eight hours, appropriate scaling factors are applied.
[0032] VDV Evaluator (112) measures the Vibration Dose Value (VDV) which is a parameter used in Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) assessment, primarily to evaluate the potential harmful effects of long-term exposure to vibration on the human body. The VDV takes into account the magnitude, frequency, and duration of exposure to vibrations, and it is particularly useful for assessing non-stationary or transient vibrations that may have sudden peaks. VDV is more sensitive to peak events and better suited for environments with sudden jolts or high-amplitude impacts, as it takes into account the fourth power of acceleration, emphasizing peak values more than A(8) does. The Vibration Dose Value (VDV) is calculated as:
VDV= (?_0^T¦?a^4 (t)dt?)^(1/4)
Where a(t) is the acceleration at time t, and T is the total duration of exposure. VDV is expressed in m/s1.75. For environments with both steady and jerky vibrations, ISO 2631-1 allows for using both A(8) and VDV to evaluate overall exposure. If only mild shocks are present, the A(8) may still suffice; however, in cases of high-intensity shocks, VDV gives a more accurate risk assessment.
[0033] EAV Duration Estimator (116) evaluates the amount of time a person can be exposed to vibration levels that exceed a specific threshold, known as the Exposure Action Value, without requiring corrective action or intervention. The EAV is set in vibration safety standards to limit the risk of health issues caused by long-term vibration exposure, particularly to the spine and musculoskeletal system. The EAV is a predefined vibration level above which employers must take action to reduce exposure. It is typically expressed in terms of A(8) or VDV, depending on whether the vibration is continuous or impulsive.
The EAV duration estimator indicates the expected duration that the subject can be exposed to vibrations without exceeding the EAV values. EAV duration refers to how long an individual can be exposed to vibrations at or above the action value before preventive measures are required. The preventive measures may include vehicle adjustments, improvement in design/ergonomics, and increased rest time/ breaks. EAV is typically set for an eight-hour period at 0.5 m/s2 for steady-state vibrations and 9.1 m /s1.75 for vibrations involving jerks. This is based on the exposure time and the magnitude of vibration. If the vibration levels exceed the action value for a shorter period, the total exposure must be calculated to ensure the daily dose remains within safe limits. The higher the vibration level, the shorter the allowable duration before reaching the EAV.
[0034] ELV Duration Estimator (118) indicates the maximum allowable time a person can be exposed to vibrations as per the test/experiment intensity such that the Exposure Limit Value (ELV) which is the safe daily exposure duration defined in ISO 2631-1 Standard is not exceeded. The ELV value for WBV for eight-hour duration is typically set at 1.15 m/s2 for A(8) or 21 m/s1.75 for VDV. Just as in the case of EAV, ELV estimation method depends on the presence or absence of jerks which are indicated by CF value being higher than 9.1 or not, respectively. In the presence of jerks, VDV is the primary indicator of WBV exposure risk otherwise, A(8) is the relevant indicator. ELV duration helps in planning safe work schedules to prevent adverse health effects from vibration exposure.
[0035] In an embodiment, a desktop application is developed to evaluate the WBV metrics which combine multiple components of the system (100) into an integrated sub-system named ‘WBV Analyzer’. The functionality of the Control Unit (104) is performed by the CPU and storage device of the desktop. The Display Unit (120) functionality is rendered by the desktop screen. The inputs to the WBV Analyzer are the raw acceleration data along three orthogonal axes (x, y, and z) obtained from the MEMS accelerometer recorder (102). A visualization of the input vibration data is provided for data validation in the WBV Analyzer sub-system. This sub-system also has batch processing capabilities to handle multiple vibration records and store the processed metrics for future use. WBV Analyzer evaluates all the WBV metrics – A(8) evaluator (110), CF evaluator (114), VDV evaluator (112), EAV duration estimator (116) and ELV duration estimator (118).
[0036] FIG. 2 is the flowchart of the method for measurement of whole-body vibrations using an embedded MEMS accelerometer device, in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with the elements from FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows the method (200) for the measurement of whole-body vibrations comprising multiple steps and may start from step (202)
[0037] In step (202), the testing of the embedded MEMS accelerometer device is performed to assess the statistical accuracy of the device in measuring accelerometer readings. This may involve placement of the device on a stationary flat surface such as the floor and recording the vibrations for a stipulated duration, for example, 10 seconds/60 seconds/10 minutes. The device is used for further measurements upon recording minimal deviations in the recorded measurements.
[0038] In step (206), alignment and affixing of the embedded MEMS accelerometer device (102) to the seat of interest is performed. The alignment of the device may involve orienting the triaxial accelerometer axes of the device with the designated x, y and z-axes of whole-body vibrations measurement– namely, the direction of travel as x-axis, vertically upwards as z-axis and perpendicularly leftwards of travel direction as y-axis. Affixing the device to the seat of interest using a suitable adhesive material ensures that the device vibrations are identical to the seat vibration exposure. The adhesive material can be of various embodiments such as a double-sided adhesive tape or any other such material.
[0039] In step (208), the vibration raw data are recorded along the three designated vibration axes of whole-body vibration measurement for the conceived experimental duration. Furthermore, the vibration raw data measurement can be performed using suitable hardware, software, firmware, open-source applications or a combination thereof.
[0040] In step (210), the raw vibration data for the experimental duration is transmitted to the control unit ((104) using suitable wireless or wired communication media.
[0041] In step (212), the raw vibration data are validated by correlating the actual disturbances experienced during the experimental duration with the timestamp-linked recorded vibrations displaying the perturbances experienced during the experiment.
[0042] In step (214), the raw vibration data are processed to generate the WBV metrics – CF evaluator (114), A(8) evaluator (110), VDV evaluator (112), EAV duration estimator (116) and ELV duration estimator (118) and displayed using (120).
[0043] In step (216), the batch option can be utilized for the processing of multiple trips or vehicle raw data iteratively.
[0044] In step (218), the WBV metrics are stored for future use. In an embodiment, the display unit and storage of WBV metrics can be integrated facilitating ease of measurement, evaluation and interpretation of results.
[0045] The order in which the method (200) is described is not intended to be construed as a
limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method (200) or alternate methods. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method (200) without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.
[0046] The steps outlined are provided to explain the exemplary embodiments depicted, and it is expected that technological advancements may alter how specific functions are carried out. These examples are presented for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope. Additionally, the divisions between functional components have been set arbitrarily for the sake of description, and alternative divisions may be defined as long as the designated functions and their relationships are correctly executed.
[0047] The method descriptions and process flow diagrams provided are intended solely as illustrative examples and do not imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be carried out in the specific order shown. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the steps in these embodiments can be performed in any sequence. Terms such as "thereafter," "then," "next," etc., are used simply to guide the reader through the method descriptions and are not meant to restrict the sequence of steps. Additionally, any reference to claim elements in the singular, such as using "a," "an," or "the," should not be interpreted as limiting the element to just the singular form.
[0048] Various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments. The invention can take many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific embodiments presented here. Rather, these embodiments are provided to meet applicable legal requirements. The term "or" is used in both its alternative and conjunctive meanings unless otherwise specified. The terms "illustrative," "example," and "exemplary" are used simply to provide examples without implying any specific quality level. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout.
[0049] Various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments. The invention can take many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific embodiments presented here. Rather, these embodiments are provided to meet applicable legal requirements. The term "or" is used in both its alternative and conjunctive meanings unless otherwise specified. The terms "illustrative," "example," and "exemplary" are used simply to provide examples without implying any specific quality level. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout.
[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more elements such as the control unit (104) described herein may be implemented using a microprocessor configured for the purpose or as an application such as WBV Analyzer installed in a desktop or a laptop. This may also permit integration of one or more elements enabling simplification of the system and ease of operation.
[0051] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described herein may be implemented using specialised hardware or a combination of hardware and firmware or software. In implementations involving firmware or software, the functions may be executed through one or more instructions stored on non-transitory computer-readable and/or processor-readable media. These instructions may be embodied as one or more software modules that are executable by a processor and reside on such non-transitory media. By way of example, but not limited to, such media may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), FLASH memory, disk storage, magnetic storage devices, or similar storage media. Disk storage includes, but is not limited to, compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, Blu-ray discs™, and other storage devices that store data either magnetically or optically using lasers. Combinations of the aforementioned types of media are also included within the definition of non-transitory computer-readable and processor-readable media. Additionally, any collection of instructions stored on such non-transitory media may collectively be referred to as a computer program.
[0052] In some example embodiments, one or more of the operations herein may be modified or further amplified. Moreover, in some embodiments, additional optional operations may also be included. It should be appreciated that each of the modifications, optional additions or amplifications described herein may be included with the operations herein either alone or in combination with any others among the features described herein.
[0053] Some modifications and alternative embodiments of the inventions disclosed herein may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant field, particularly when considering the descriptions provided herein and the accompanying drawings. While the figures presented illustrate particular components of the apparatus and systems, it is understood that other components may be utilized in conjunction with the described or depicted ones. Therefore, the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and all such modifications and alternative embodiments are expressly intended to be within the scope of the appended claims.
[0054] The various exemplary logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithmic steps set forth in connection with the embodiments described herein may be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof. To facilitate the understanding of the interchangeability between hardware and software, these illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described generally in terms of their respective functionalities. The decision to implement such functionalities using hardware or software is contingent upon the specific application and the design constraints governing the overall system. It is understood that those skilled in the art may implement the functionalities described herein in different manners for each application, and such variations in implementation shall not be construed as deviations from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0055] Table of figure elements
FIG. 1 Reference Number
System 100
MEMS Accelerometer Device 102
Control Unit 104
Batch-mode Analyzer 106
A(8) Evaluator 110
VDV Evaluator 112
CF Evaluator 114
EAV Duration Estimator 116
ELV Duration Estimator
Display Unit 118
120
FIG. 2 Reference Numbers
Method 500
Method Steps 502 - 512
, Claims:1. A system (100) for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations, comprising of:
MEMS accelerometer(s) device (or MEMS accelerometer(s) embedded modular device) for recording vibration data (102),
a control unit (104),
a batch-mode analyzer (106),
an A(8) evaluator to measure 8-hr average vibration magnitude (110),
a vibration dose value (VDV) evaluator (112),
a crest factor evaluator (114),
an exposure action value (EAV) estimator (116),
an exposure limit value (ELV) estimator (118), and
a display unit (120).
Characterised in that, one or more MEMS accelerometer device(s) (102) record the vibration raw data from the seat of interest and transmit data either through wireless mode or through a USB cable or such alternatives.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (104) receives and processes the raw data from the vibration recorder (102) and displays the raw data for physical correlation using the timestamp. The control unit (104) may also be configured to receive the vibration data set(s), generate one or more WBV metrics and store them for future use.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the batch-mode analyzer (106) facilitates the processing of multiple raw vibration data sets iteratively without processing each data set individually.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the A(8) evaluator (110) evaluates the 8-hour average vibration magnitude applying appropriate frequency weighting of raw data, complying with the procedures outlined in the standard ISO 2631-1.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the CF evaluator (114) evaluates crest factor, complying with the procedures outlined in the standard ISO 2631-1 and is a key metric to determine the type of analysis to be used for vibration assessment.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the VDV evaluator (112) evaluates the vibration dose value, complying with the procedures outlined in the standard ISO 2631-1 and is a significant metric in the presence of shocks or jerks.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the EAV estimator (116) evaluates the maximum time duration for safe exposure at the given vibration intensity.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ELV estimator (118) evaluates the maximum time duration exposure at the given vibration intensity after which it is recommended to halt the operations.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the display unit (120) receives and displays the values obtained using A(8) evaluator (110), CF evaluator (114), VDV evaluator(112), EAV duration estimator (116) and ELV duration estimator (118).
10. A method for preliminary assessment of whole-body vibrations using a MEMS accelerometer-embedded device, wherein the method comprises of steps of:
testing (202) the MEMS accelerometer device;
aligning and affixing (204) the device in a particular manner;
recording (208) the vibration data;
transmitting (210) the vibration data;
validating (212) the recorded vibrations;
processing (214) the data to generate WBV metrics;
utilizing batch option (216) for multiple readings; and
evaluating (218) WBV metrics and storage
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202511000650-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 2 | 202511000650-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 3 | 202511000650-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 4 | 202511000650-FORM-9 [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 5 | 202511000650-FORM 18A [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 6 | 202511000650-FORM 18 [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 7 | 202511000650-FORM 1 [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 8 | 202511000650-EVIDENCE OF ELIGIBILTY RULE 24C1h [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 9 | 202511000650-DRAWINGS [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 10 | 202511000650-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 11 | 202511000650-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [03-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-03 |
| 12 | 202511000650-IntimationUnderRule24C(4).pdf | 2025-02-24 |
| 13 | 202511000650-Response to office action [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 14 | 202511000650-Annexure [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 15 | 202511000650-FER.pdf | 2025-05-09 |
| 16 | 202511000650-OTHERS [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 17 | 202511000650-FER_SER_REPLY [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 18 | 202511000650-DRAWING [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 19 | 202511000650-CORRESPONDENCE [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 20 | 202511000650-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 21 | 202511000650-CLAIMS [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 22 | 202511000650-ABSTRACT [08-11-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-11-08 |
| 1 | 202511000650_SearchStrategyNew_E_202511000650SearchstratgyE_08-05-2025.pdf |