Date of Publication

4-8-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering and Management

Subject Categories

Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering

College

Gokongwei College of Engineering

Department/Unit

Manufacturing Engineering and Management

Thesis Advisor

Dr. Renann G. Baldovino
Engr. Rhen Anjerome Bedruz

Defense Panel Chair

Mr. Homer S. Co

Defense Panel Member

Mr. Richard Josiah C. Tan Ai
Dr. Nicanor R. Roxas, Jr.

Abstract (English)

Spinal deformity refers to a wide range of postural disorders that are brought about by abnormalities of the thoracolumbar spine. Current literature suggests that the primary causes of spinal deformities include the degradation of the skeletal system due to aging, repetitive stress brought about by poor posture, and the presence of skeletal comorbidities such as arthritis. The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced many changes in the lifestyle of many people, including that of improper posture during online activities. Traditional methods for diagnosing spinal deformities involve radiology such as x-rays and MRI which may be inaccessible to some populations due to the need for facilities and its acceptance of use especially in children. Literature on other less invasive methods which may aid for the monitoring and visualization of spine posture are limited and few studies have been conducted towards the development of such devices. The main objective of this study is to develop a spinal posture monitoring device through a non-invasive manner with Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors. Raw data from IMU sensors were processed to allow real-time monitoring of the patient’s spinal position. Additionally, this data will be used to create 2D visualizations of spinal motion through a graphical user interface. The device fabricated in this study involved a sensor patch adhesive attached to an enclosure which houses the IMU sensors which was placed along critical points on a patient's spinal column. The system, which was tested on five healthy individuals, was compared to the relative positions of each vertebra with respect to the sacrum and yielded an overall accuracy of 95.72% with a standard deviation of 1.12%. The accompanying GUI was evaluated using a System Usability Scale which yielded a score of 78.67. Key findings suggest the further development of similar devices as this can be a reliable method to quickly determine spinal motion using a low-profile, easily accessible, and less-invasive device. Furthermore, additional verification such as cross checking measurement data with radiology methods is recommended.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

None

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Self-help devices for people with disabilities

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Embargo Period

4-9-2026

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