Field
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Date
April 2026
Abstract
The Barbell Analysis Modules (BAM) are a barbell-mounted motion tracking system designed to analyze lifting form during a barbell squat exercise. Bar path is a crucial indicator of lifting efficiency, yet many tracking systems are expensive or impractical in everyday weight-training environments. BAM was created to provide a small-form-factor and cost-effective solution that can be mounted directly on a standard Olympic barbell to obtain motion-related data during the exercise. The modules are intended to measure bar path straightness, tilt, orientation, and repetition velocity, which will allow barbell users and athletes to gain feedback on their performance and technique. Our design uses sensing hardware mounted near the barbell’s sleeve region of a standard men’s Olympic barbell. The enclosure that the electronics are housed in is a 3D printable enclosure that runs lengthwise along the barbell. The orientation was chosen to minimize human interference during lifters’ movements and work along the barbells' geometry. The enclosure was designed with a curved saddle that fits the barbell sleeve's curvature, and an internal flat floor for mounting electronic components on the perfboard. Since the barbell is magnetic, magnets are placed on the enclosures’ saddle to be able to snap on and off the barbell, which highlights its portability. The design also includes access for a push-button as a reset and a Micro-B USB charging connection so that the battery charging system can be used without removing any internal components.
Recommended Citation
Cole, Ethan; Lele, Shaan; Nguyen, Andy; and Anderson, Mari, "Barbell Analysis Module (BAM)" (2026). Pacific Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit (PIES). 44.
https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/pies/44
