Squid in action (via Northeastern University)
Sure there is a multitude of ways to monitor your workout progress such as using heart-rate monitors or pedometers, but none has the in-depth real-time information feedback as that of Northeastern University’s ‘Squid’ shirt. Designed by a team of engineers the shirt features a series of strategically place EMG (Electromyography) sensors (13 in total) that monitor muscle activity in three key areas. These include the deltoid, pectoral and latissimus dorsi muscle groups.
The disposable sensors (you can throw them away after your workout) send the real-time information to a connected to a 3D printed box (worn on a belt) that houses an Arduino NanoArduino Nano. A custom made filter (signal) board that processes the data, which is then sent wirelessly, using a Bluetooth module, to the users, smartphone that uses an app (Android only as of now) that lets you monitor how much muscle activity. The sensors also send information regarding the user’s heart-rate which when combined with the muscle activity gives a more complete workout performance picture.
This information is then sent wirelessly from your smartphone to a computer where the user can monitor their performance over time in the form of a graph chart. Obviously, using the Squid shirt would give the wearer a ‘bigger picture’ regarding their workouts. It’s the hope of the engineering team that coaches use it to monitor their athletes in the off season, but the shirt could provide valuable information for doctors in monitoring the progress of patients who suffer a stroke, for example. As it stands right now, the Squid shirt is still in the development stage (currently on version 2), so don’t expect to see the shirt anytime soon.
Cabe
