Kayaking paddle blade compression load distribution sensing system based on optical fiber with a polydimethylsiloxane...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Optical Sensor Technology

Background:

• Accurate measurement of forces in kayaking is crucial for performance optimization and injury prevention.
• Existing methods for load measurement in kayaking are often invasive or lack real-time capabilities.
• Optical fiber technology offers a promising avenue for developing non-invasive, real-time biomechanical sensing systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel real-time compression load measurement system for kayaking paddles.
• To evaluate the system's ability to measure both handgrip loading and paddle blade load distribution.
• To demonstrate the system's application potential in real-world kayaking scenarios.

Main Methods:

• A real-time compression load measurement system was designed using fiber Bragg grating (FBG) optical fiber sensors.
• The FBG sensor was embedded within a 2 mm polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane, creating a detachable pressure mat.
• The system was tested through indoor prototype experiments and on-water trials with an expert kayaker.

Main Results:

• The developed system successfully measured compression loads in real time.
• Data on peak compression load distribution patterns and duration of paddle blade immersion were acquired.
• Indoor and on-water experiments validated the system's feasibility and potential for application.

Conclusions:

• The proposed optical fiber-based system provides a novel and effective method for real-time load measurement in kayaking.
• This technology can significantly enhance the understanding of biomechanics in kayaking, aiding in technique refinement and training.
• The system's ease of attachment and detachment makes it a practical tool for both research and athlete development.