Pedal Speed and Orientation Estimation of a Virtual Reality Indoor Bicycle

The Virtual-Reality Stationary Bicycle revolutionizes the rehabilitation experience by combining physical therapy with the immersive world of virtual reality. This innovative approach not only aids patients in regaining their strength and mobility but also transforms the challenging recovery process into an enjoyable and engaging journey. To create an environment that keeps riders motivated and fully immersed in their rehabilitation process, precise speed synchronization between the pedal and video display is necessary. This synchronization ensures that the virtual world feels smooth and real as the user pedals. In our study, we developed a miniature, portable device designed for easy attachment to any stationary bike’s pedal. This device employs a Kalman filter to extract pedal kinematics from Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) data. Its connection to the video processor through Bluetooth technology guarantees high-speed robust data transmission. The experimental results show the success of this innovative approach and its function. The Virtual-Reality Stationary Bicycle represents a significant step forward in the field of rehabilitation, offering a promising path toward better outcomes and patient-improved quality of life.