Single inertial sensor-based neural networks to estimate COM-COP inclination angle during walking

A biomechanical understanding of gait stability is needed to reduce falling risk. As a typical parameter, the COM-COP (center of mass–center of pressure) inclination angle (IA) could provide valuable insight into postural control and balance recovery ability. In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to estimate COM-COP IA based on signals using an inertial sensor. Also, we evaluated how different types of ANN and the cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter applied to input signals could affect the accuracy of the model. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) including an accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer sensors was fabricated as a prototype. The COM-COP IA was calculated using a 3D motion analysis system including force plates. In order to predict the COM-COP IA, a feed-forward ANN and long-short term memory (LSTM) network was developed. As a result, the feed-forward ANN showed a relative root-mean-square error (rRMSE) of 15% while the LSTM showed an improved accuracy of 9% rRMSE. Additionally, the LSTM displayed a stable accuracy regardless of the cutoff frequency of the filter applied to the input signals. This study showed that estimating the COM-COP IA was possible with a cheap inertial sensor system. Furthermore, the neural network models in this study can be implemented in systems to monitor the balancing ability of the elderly or patients with impaired balancing ability.