iBalance-ABF: A Smartphone-Based Audio-Biofeedback Balance System

Abstract

This article proposes an implementation of a Kalman Filter, using inertial sensors of a Smartphone, to estimate 3D angulation of the trunk. The developped system monitors the trunk angular evolution during bipedal stance and helps the user to improve balance through a configurable and integrated auditory-biofeedback loop. A proof-of-concept study was performed to assess the effectiveness of this so-called iBalance-ABF -smartphone-based audio-biofeedback system -in improving balance during bipedal standing. Results showed that young healthy individuals were able to efficiently use ABF on sagittal trunk tilt to improve their balance in the ML direction. These findings suggest that iBalance-ABF system as a Telerehabilitation system which could represent a suitable solution for Ambient Assisted Living technologies.

Development of an application for mobile devices to evaluate the balance and risk of falls of the elderly

“…The authors concluded that the application effectively assessed balance and allowed training for young adult volunteers 24 .…”

Multimedia sensors embedded in smartphones for ambient assisted living and e-health

“…Franco et al [57] propose a smartphone-based audio-biofeedback (ABF) system based on a Kalman Filter that uses the inertial sensors of a Smartphone to estimate 3D angulation of the trunk. The iBalance-ABF system is a smartphone-based ABF balance system that offers to its user a wireless, portable, lightweight and low-cost balance testing and rehabilitation training tool suitable for home use.…”

Smartphone-Based System for Sensorimotor Control Assessment, Monitoring, Improving and Training at Home

“…on young [27] and older [2 application allows users to s control) during standing encourage more research to application for balance train balance capacities. Fig.…”