Review on Wearable Technology Sensors Used in Consumer Sport Applications

Abstract

This review paper discusses the trends and projections for wearable technology in the consumer sports sector (excluding professional sport). Analyzing the role of wearable technology for different users and why there is such a need for these devices in everyday lives. It shows how different sensors are influential in delivering a variety of readings that are useful in many ways regarding sport attributes. Wearables are increasing in function, and through integrating technology, users are gathering more data about themselves. The amount of wearable technology available is broad, each having its own role to play in different industries. Inertial measuring unit (IMU) and Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors are predominantly present in sport wearables but can be programmed for different needs. In this review, the differences are displayed to show which sensors are compatible and which ones can evolve sensor technology for sport applications.

Keywords: data; sensors; smart; sport; wearable technology.

Figure 1

Block diagram example of a Fitness wearable’s process. This shows the example block diagram in how fitness wearable technology can be used for lifestyle applications (weight, calories burned, heart rate, speed, etc.). The users will have their activity monitored via sensors, input some of the data themselves (food eaten), which can then be communicated to a smart phone and to the provider’s cloud service. The data then get processed, thus they become useful for the user to understand. This is fed back into either the paired smart phone or the wearable itself, depending on type of display.

Figure 2

Wearable technology market share; data adapted from Grandview Research [12]. This shows how the global wearable sensors market share is divided.

Figure 3

Worldwide wearable shipments projected 2020; data adapted from Statista plot [19]. This figure shows how wrist wear will remain a popular wearable. This could be due to it replacing traditional watches, which consumers have worn for years. If this forecast continues past 2020, then more manufacturers will look to improve on this element alone, but depending on positive consumer feedback, they may even find another body part that can be used for future device placements.

Figure 4

Sensors market share; data adapted from Grandview Research [12].

Figure 5

Battery consumption states in wearables (%); data adapted from Maxim Integrated [69].

Figure 6

Example of potential battery consumption rate changes during the day for both wearables.

Figure 7

Block diagram example of wearable technology framework.

Figure 8

Block diagram example of a medical wearable’s process.

Figure 9

Percentage of A&E attendances for sport injuries by age group; data adapted from Nhs.uk [93].