Rib Cage IMU and sEMG Dataset: Kinematics and Respiratory Muscle Activation

The methodology combines Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and Surface Electromyography (sEMG) (using the Delsys Trigno Avanti™ system) to allow for the simultaneous analysis of rib cage movement (kinematics) and accessory muscle activity (rectus abdominis activation).

The protocol was validated in a small sample of nine (n=9) healthy volunteers, categorized by lifestyle (smokers, athletes, and unclassified individuals). Data were collected by placing eight sensors on key ribs (II, VI, X, XI) and the rectus abdominis muscle while participants performed three specific breathing modes: Normal Breathing, Maximal Breathing, and voluntary Coughing. This approach successfully detects differences in respiratory patterns associated with lifestyle factors, demonstrating its potential as an objective clinical tool for functional assessment.