A Low-Cost Distributed Multi-Sensor Rule-Based System for Real-Time Sitting Posture Monitoring and Remote Behavioral Feedback

Abstract

Prolonged sitting and poor posture are linked to musculoskeletal discomfort, higher spinal loading, and lower study and work efficiency. An Arduino-based distributed system combining a multi-sensor was developed for low-cost, camera-free sitting posture monitoring. It comprises a wearable sensing board (WSB), a main control board (MCB), and a host computer. The WSB measures trunk inclination—that is, the forward pitch and lateral roll of the upper trunk relative to the upright reference—using an ADXL345 acceleration sensor, whereas the MCB measures the user-to-desk distance using a US-100 ultrasonic ranging unit; NRF24L01 Wireless Communication Units connect them. Rule-based thresholds classify six states: “normal”, “slouching”, “leaning left”, “leaning right”, “too close”, and “too far”. The Sound Audio Unit and Liquid Crystal Display Unit provide local voice alerts and visual feedback. Using a 4G Unit, the MCB uploads user ID, timestamp, ambient temperature, distance, and posture state to a cloud platform. Cloud-generated text files support host retrieval and display, with accounts for two users and one administrator. The system can determine sitting-distance states within a range of 40–2000 mm and output trunk inclination information over a range of 0–90°. Under the current test conditions, the wireless communication distance between the MCB and WSB exceeds 3 m. In addition, the auditory reminder, time and temperature display, and PC-side data retrieval functions all operate as intended. With a total hardware cost of USD 18.39, the system provides a viable prototype for low-cost, camera-free sitting posture monitoring and remote data management in educational and home settings.