News Release

Intelligent device shows promise in physical activity measurement market

Technical Insights' nutrition research newsletter

Business Announcement

Technical Insights



San Jose, Calif.--March 3, 2003--Rapid strides in microelectronics and computers are facilitating the design and development of smart devices such as the Intelligent Device for Energy Expenditure and Activity (IDEEA) that can accurately monitor physical activities and even provide guidance on suitable amount and type of activity.

Leagues ahead of measurement devices like the pedometer or accelerometer, this microprocessor-based appliance enables the collection and analysis of data for body motion, posture, and exercise, on a 24-hour basis and in a free-living situation. Estimating the amount of mechanical work and related energy expenditure for a pre-determined period helps you calculate the relationship between physical activity and energy balance.

"The IDEEA provides some of the most accurate results ever reported for a portable device," writes Elizabeth DeRobertis, a contributing analyst to Nutrition Research Newsletter. "The scientific information it generates is invaluable in assessing physical performance and diagnosing a variety of diseases. The device is expected to find a strong foothold in the markets for weight control treatment, fitness training, and rehabilitation/functional evaluation."

Through five small sensors attached to the body and a 200-gram data collection device worn on a belt, the IDEEA can currently identify and quantify 32 broad types of physical activity. The system monitors body and limb motions constantly and the different combinations of sensor signals are coded to represent different physical activities, including reclining, sitting, standing, carrying weight, walking, ascending and descending stairs, and cycling.

Studies show an overall accuracy rate of 98.7 percent for the correct identification of the 32 types of physical activity; an average of 98.9 percent for posture and limb movement; and 98.5 percent for gait identification.

The shortcoming of the device lies in its inability to measure arm movements directly. Thus, activities involving chiefly arm motion, such as rowing, swinging a ball, or operating a vacuum cleaner, cannot be correctly identified unless more sensors are involved.

Researchers are working on developing a wireless communication data collection device to reduce the inconvenience of wearing multiple sensors. Future models that minimally intrude into users' normal movements during daily activities are expected to increase the popularity of the device.

With increasing validation, the technology is set to become hot property in a physical activity measurement market that urgently needs better techniques of assessment in free-living populations.

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New analysis by Technical Insights, a business unit of Frost & Sullivan (www.Technical-Insights.frost.com), featured in Nutrition Research Newsletter, provides an overview of scientific and technological advances in the fields of nutrition and healthcare.

Frost & Sullivan is a global leader in strategic growth consulting. Acquired by Frost & Sullivan, Technical Insights is an international technology analysis and consulting business that produces a variety of technical news alerts, newsletters, and reports. This ongoing analysis including growth opportunities is part of the Nutrition Research Newsletter, which also includes scientific insights on diabetes, eating disorders, and cardiovascular disease, among many other areas. Technical Insights and Frost & Sullivan also offer custom growth consulting to a variety of national and international companies. Research samples and interviews are available to the press.

Nutrition Research Newsletter

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