UpRight
School Name
Center for Advanced Technical Studies
Grade Level
12th Grade
Presentation Topic
Engineering
Presentation Type
Non-Mentored
Abstract
Maintaining proper posture is becoming increasingly difficult due to the rapid advancement of technology. This postural degradation can have severe effects on the spine, muscles, stomach, and intestines, contributing to conditions such as back pain, acid reflux, and constipation. With the widespread use of office jobs, gaming, schooling, and smartphones, this issue has become a common concern. To address this, we propose a posture trainer designed to help users correct their posture independently through simple, consistent reminders. This solution involves a wearable device that can be discreetly worn under clothing. A flex sensor will be placed along the user's spine and calibrated to detect proper posture. If the sensor detects significant deviation from the ideal posture over an extended period, it will trigger a vibration as a reminder to correct the users posture. Success will be measured by the accuracy of the deviation threshold that activates the reminder and by the seamless functioning of all device components. Through extensive research, we reviewed previous studies on the causes and effects of poor posture. Notably, a prominent study from Hong Kong found that trunk asymmetry (poor posture) worsens with increased technology use, which is linked to musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial abnormalities. Our posture trainer aims to prevent or mitigate these health issues by promoting posture awareness and encouraging habitual correction, providing a practical solution to a growing concern.
Recommended Citation
Skinner, Matthew, "UpRight" (2025). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 6.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2025/all/6
Location
WALL 308
Start Date
4-5-2025 11:00 AM
Presentation Format
Oral Only
Group Project
No
UpRight
WALL 308
Maintaining proper posture is becoming increasingly difficult due to the rapid advancement of technology. This postural degradation can have severe effects on the spine, muscles, stomach, and intestines, contributing to conditions such as back pain, acid reflux, and constipation. With the widespread use of office jobs, gaming, schooling, and smartphones, this issue has become a common concern. To address this, we propose a posture trainer designed to help users correct their posture independently through simple, consistent reminders. This solution involves a wearable device that can be discreetly worn under clothing. A flex sensor will be placed along the user's spine and calibrated to detect proper posture. If the sensor detects significant deviation from the ideal posture over an extended period, it will trigger a vibration as a reminder to correct the users posture. Success will be measured by the accuracy of the deviation threshold that activates the reminder and by the seamless functioning of all device components. Through extensive research, we reviewed previous studies on the causes and effects of poor posture. Notably, a prominent study from Hong Kong found that trunk asymmetry (poor posture) worsens with increased technology use, which is linked to musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial abnormalities. Our posture trainer aims to prevent or mitigate these health issues by promoting posture awareness and encouraging habitual correction, providing a practical solution to a growing concern.
