Application of An IMU Sensor for Monitoring Bilateral Pedaling Balance on an Exercise Bike.

Lê Đức Luyện, Trần Minh Hổ, Lê Đức Trọng Nguyễn

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Abstract

This study presents a method that utilizes a single inertial measurement unit (IMU) to monitor cycling activity and evaluate pedaling symmetry between the left and right legs through the symmetry index (SI). The IMU sensor is mounted on the crank arm to measure angular velocity and acceleration, enabling real-time estimation of the crank angle and segmentation of the pedaling cycle to determine the downstroke duration of each leg. Based on the calculated SI values, the system is able to identify pedaling asymmetry during cycling exercise. The proposed method eliminates the need for complex force or power sensors, thereby simplifying the system while still providing essential information regarding pedaling symmetry and cycling performance. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach has strong potential for integration into smart cycling training systems to support performance monitoring and assessment, as well as rehabilitation applications.

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References

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