Swimming training device

Abstract

This invention relates to a land swimming trainer comprising: at least one hand paddle; a force-generating device for resisting movement of the at least one hand paddle, the force-generating device being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and at least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the movement of the at least one hand paddle. The invention also relates to a related computer-implemented method, and a system comprising a land swimming trainer and a computing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of land swimming training. More specifically, this invention relates to a land swimming trainer, a related computer implementation method, and a system including a land swimming trainer and a computing device. Background Technology

[0002] Land-based swimming training refers to training the muscles used in swimming outside of water. Typically, this type of training may involve using weights or resistance to strengthen specific swimming muscles to improve performance in water. Another benefit of land-based swimming training is practicing swimming technique, as it can be easier to make controlled adjustments to the stroke technique outside of water than in water.

[0003] However, existing land-based swimming trainers require users to set up a mirror or camera to observe their technique and identify areas for improvement, which is impractical. Additionally, swimmers can train with partners to observe their technique and receive feedback, but this limits the ability to train alone. Another drawback of land-based swimming trainers is that training in one place can become monotonous and tedious, especially for long training sessions.

[0004] The present invention aims to at least partially improve these problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following describes various aspects and embodiments of the invention. These and other aspects and specific implementations of the invention are also described herein.

[0006] According to at least one aspect described herein, a land swimming trainer is provided, comprising: at least one hand paddle; a force-generating device for resisting the movement of the at least one hand paddle, the force-generating device being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and at least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the movement of the at least one hand paddle.

[0007] Advantageously, at least one sensor in a land-based swimming trainer can provide data that helps users gain a deeper understanding of their swimming skills. This allows users to identify areas for improvement without the need for a mirror, camera, coach, or training partner. Furthermore, the sensors can help users pinpoint weaknesses in their swimming technique that are difficult to detect with the naked eye or by feel alone.

[0008] As used herein, the term "land swimming trainer" preferably refers to a device for training swimming techniques on land other than in a body of water. As used herein, "swimming" and related terms preferably also refer to using swimming motions to propel a water ski. The force-generating device can be a resistance-generating device. The term "hand paddle" preferably includes a handle gripped by the user (e.g., the handle of a resistance band, or a handle connected to the force-generating device).

[0009] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes at least one sensor configured to measure the force (or measure a characteristic capable of deriving the force) applied by the user to at least one hand paddle. For example, a stress gauge. Thus, the sensor (such as a stress gauge) can be used to measure or derive the force applied by the user to the hand paddle, thereby calculating the power generated by their stroke.

[0010] The sensor is used to measure the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle, and can also be configured to measure the motion characteristics of the flywheel, wherein the motion of the flywheel is caused by the force applied by the user to the hand paddle.

[0011] When the force sensor is a stress gauge, it can be mounted on the flexible shaft of at least one hand paddle. In this case, the stress gauge can measure the bending of the shaft caused by the force applied to the hand paddle. The bending of the shaft (i.e., elastic deformation) can be used as a representative of the force applied to the hand paddle by the user. The force sensor may include multiple stress gauges (e.g., four stress gauges) arranged in a Wheatstone bridge configuration on the flexible shaft. This allows for more accurate force measurements compared to a single stress gauge or even multiple (e.g., four) stress gauges in different configurations.

[0012] Ideally, the coupling between the force-generating device and the hand paddle includes the coupling between the force-generating device and the flexible rod of the paddle. In other words, the force-generating device is connected to the hand paddle via the flexible rod. This design is compact, with the stress meter integrated into the connection between the paddle and the force-generating device.

[0013] Preferably, the connection between the force-generating device and the flexible rod includes a hand strap. This hand strap connects the force-generating device to the flexible rod. In this way, any force exerted by the user on the paddle against the flexible rod will be transmitted to the flexible rod.

[0014] At least one sensor for measuring the force applied by a user to at least one hand paddle can be connected to or integrated with the force-generating device. For example, if the force-generating device includes a flywheel or a weight and pulley system, the sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the hand paddle can be connected to the flywheel instead of the hand paddle, or integrated with the flywheel instead of the hand paddle.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes a sensor for measuring the speed or acceleration of the paddle (e.g., an accelerometer). This can complement the stress gauge described above. The accelerometer can be built into the paddle.

[0016] Ideally, an accelerometer should be configured to measure acceleration in at least two directions, and preferably three. For example, an accelerometer can measure acceleration relative to the user's viewpoint in three orthogonal directions: forward / backward ("X"), left / right ("Y"), and up / down ("Z").

[0017] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes a sensor (e.g., a gyroscope) for measuring the direction or angular velocity of the paddle. This can complement the stress gauge and accelerometer described above. The gyroscope can be built into the paddle. The gyroscope can be configured to measure the orientation of the paddle relative to a “roll” axis, which is along or aligned with the length of the paddle, and / or to a “tilt” axis, which is along or aligned with the width of the paddle, and / or to a “yaw” axis that is perpendicular to the paddle and perpendicular to the other axes. The gyroscope can also be additionally or alternatively configured to measure the rate of change of direction of the paddle in any of these directions.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one sensor may include a pressure sensor, preferably a piezoelectric or piezoresistive pressure sensor. This can serve as a supplement to or alternative to the stress gauge described above. The pressure sensor can be used to measure the force applied by the user to the hand paddle.

[0019] Preferably, at least one sensor is integrated into the interior of at least one hand paddle. For example, sensors (such as stress gauges, accelerometers, and gyroscopes) may be integrated into a housing within the hand paddle, preferably along with other electronic components (such as printed circuit boards), and preferably also along with the aforementioned flexible rod. This arrangement of integrating sensors into the hand paddle provides a compact layout.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one hand paddle comprises a pair of paddles, each paddle including at least one sensor. This allows for independent measurement of the motion characteristics of each side of the user's stroke (i.e., each arm) to identify imbalances in the user's technique.

[0021] Preferably, the force-generating device comprises at least one of the following: one or more elastic resistance bands; a flywheel; a weight plus pulley device, preferably wherein the pulley device is used to move the user's weight. Advantageously, the use of an elastic resistance band provides a compact device, as it only requires an elastic resistance band and a hand paddle with a sensor, and the device can be installed wherever there is a suitable mounting point for connecting the resistance band. With the use of a flywheel or a weight plus pulley device, the device is necessarily larger and typically includes a separate structure.

[0022] When the force-generating device includes a flywheel or a weighted pulley system, the sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the paddle can be integrated with the force-generating device, rather than with the paddle itself. For example, if the force-generating device includes a flywheel, the sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the paddle can be connected to the force-generating device (e.g., to measure the speed of the flywheel), rather than being part of the paddle. If the force-generating device includes a reluctance flywheel, the sensor for measuring the force can include an electromagnetic sensor connected to the flywheel. If the force-generating device includes a friction-damped flywheel (e.g., an air-damped flywheel), the sensor for measuring the force can include a sensor that measures friction or resistance associated with the flywheel.

[0023] Preferably, the land swimming trainer includes a support platform on which the user can lie and move at least one hand paddle against a force-generating device.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one hand paddle is a handle or hand grip (rather than a flat paddleboard) for the user to hold, or includes a handle or hand grip.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a computer-implemented method is provided, comprising: receiving sensor measurement data on a computing device relating to at least one feature of the motion of at least one hand paddle of a land swimming trainer; calculating motion parameters of a digital user avatar displayed on a display screen of the computing device based at least in part on the received data; and moving the digital user avatar on the display screen of the computing device according to the calculated motion parameters.

[0026] Advantageously, users can visually see their performance and techniques on the display screen. This offers a more engaging experience compared to existing land-based swimming trainers. The display screen can also provide feedback and insights to users based on sensor measurements.

[0027] Preferably, the data related to the sensor measurements includes data related to the force or power exerted by the user against a resistance on at least one hand paddle. This data may be derived from measurements by a stress gauge or other sensors.

[0028] Preferably, calculating the motion parameters includes calculating the speed of the avatar based at least in part on data related to the force or power applied by the user against a resistance to at least one hand paddle. Thus, the avatar will move faster in the simulated environment when the user applies greater force or power to the hand paddle.

[0029] Ideally, motion parameters should be calculated, at least in part, based on technical parameters. This would provide a more realistic experience for the user, as any technical limitations on the user's skills would affect the movement of the avatar on the screen.

[0030] Preferably, the technical parameters are based at least in part on gyroscope measurements relating to the orientation of at least one hand paddle in the land swimming trainer. For example, the technical parameters may be based in part on the "tilt" orientation of the hand paddle during the push-pull phase of the stroke.

[0031] Preferably, the technical parameters are based at least in part on accelerometer measurements relating to the acceleration of at least one hand paddle in the land swimming trainer. For example, the technical parameters may be based in part on the Y-axis acceleration measured by the accelerometer, which represents a non-linear pulling motion.

[0032] Preferably, the method includes initiating a virtual swimming session and displaying the movement of a digital user avatar and the movement of at least one other avatar in the same virtual environment on a display screen of a computing device. Preferably, the movement of the at least one other avatar is displayed relative to the movement of the user avatar.

[0033] Preferably, the method includes receiving data from a server relating to the motion of at least one other avatar, representing at least one remote user; and displaying on a display screen of a computing device the dynamics of the remote user avatar's motion relative to a local user avatar. This enables multiplayer competition with remote users, where avatars of different users are simultaneously displayed in the same simulated environment. As described herein, the speed and position of the various user avatars are determined by sensor data from each user's swimming trainer.

[0034] Additionally, at least one other avatar includes a target avatar. In this case, the computing device can display the movement of the target avatar relative to the digital user avatar. The target avatar does not represent a real-world remote user, but rather a target or exemplary swimming speed. This allows the user to compare the speed of their user avatar (representing their performance on the swimming trainer) with the speed of the target avatar (representing a target speed the user might wish to achieve). The target avatar can represent the user's real-world swimming performance, such as previous pool swimming or open water swimming, so the speed of the target avatar displayed on the computing device corresponds to the user's previous real-world swimming speed. This allows the user to compare the speed of their user avatar (representing their performance on the swimming trainer) with the speed they achieved in real-world swimming. In any case, the target avatar appears simultaneously with the user avatar in the same simulated environment.

[0035] Preferably, the method includes identifying at least one of the following based at least in part on periodic patterns in data associated with sensor measurements: the type of swimming stroke performed on the swimming trainer; the number of swimming strokes performed on the swimming trainer; and / or the swimming stroke rate performed on the swimming trainer. The stroke type can be determined by comparing the measured sensor pattern with example patterns for each stroke type. The number of strokes can be determined by calculating the number of cycles of the periodic pattern. The stroke rate can be determined based on the number of strokes per unit time.

[0036] According to another aspect described herein, a system is provided comprising: a land swimming trainer including: at least one hand paddle; and means for generating force to prevent movement of the hand paddle, the means for generating force being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and at least one sensor for measuring at least one feature related to the movement of the hand paddle; and a computing device directly or indirectly connected to the at least one sensor via a wired or wireless connection, wherein the swimming trainer is configured to transmit data related to the at least one measured feature to the computing device.

[0037] Preferably, the computing device is configured to calculate, at least in part, the movement parameters of the digital user avatar being displayed on the display screen of the computing device based on the transmitted data.

[0038] Preferably, the computing device is configured to move the digital avatar on the display screen of the computing device according to the calculated movement parameters.

[0039] Preferably, the land swimming trainer is the aforementioned land swimming trainer, and the computing device includes a memory for storing software code, which, when executed on a processor, performs the aforementioned method. According to another aspect described herein, an apparatus, such as an exercise device, is provided, including a land exercise device comprising: at least one hand paddle; means for generating force to resist the movement of the hand paddle, the means for generating force being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and at least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the movement of the hand paddle.

[0040] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes at least one sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle, preferably a stress meter.

[0041] Preferably, at least one sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle is a stress gauge mounted on the flexible bar of at least one hand paddle.

[0042] Preferably, the connection between the force-generating device and at least one hand paddle includes a connection between the force-generating device and the flexible rod of the paddle; preferably, the connection between the force-generating device and the flexible rod includes a hand strap.

[0043] Preferably, at least one sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle is connected to the force-generating device.

[0044] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes an accelerometer; more preferably, the at least one hand paddle includes the accelerometer.

[0045] Ideally, an accelerometer should be configured to measure acceleration in at least two directions, preferably three.

[0046] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes a gyroscope; more preferably, the at least one hand paddle includes a gyroscope.

[0047] The gyroscope is preferably configured to measure orientation relative to an axis aligned with or along the length of the paddle.

[0048] The gyroscope is preferably configured to measure orientation relative to an axis aligned with or along the width of the paddle.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one sensor includes a pressure sensor, preferably a piezoelectric or piezoresistive pressure sensor.

[0050] Preferably, at least one sensor is integrated into the interior of at least one hand paddle.

[0051] Preferably, the at least one hand paddle includes a pair of hand paddles, each hand paddle including at least one sensor.

[0052] Preferably, the force-generating device includes at least one of the following: one or more elastic resistance bands; a flywheel; a weight and pulley device, preferably wherein the pulley device is configured to move the user's weight.

[0053] Preferably, the device includes a support platform on which the user can lie and move at least one hand paddle against the force-generating device.

[0054] According to another aspect described herein, a computer-implemented method is provided, comprising: receiving data on a computing device related to sensor measurements, said sensor measurements being associated with at least one feature of at least one hand paddle movement of a device such as an exercise device; calculating motion parameters of a digital avatar displayed on a display screen of the computing device, based at least in part on the received data; and moving the digital avatar on the display screen of the computing device according to the calculated motion parameters.

[0055] Preferably, the data associated with the sensor measurements includes data related to the force exerted by the user against a resistance on at least one hand paddle.

[0056] Preferably, calculating the motion parameters includes calculating the speed of the digital avatar based at least in part on data relating to the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle.

[0057] Preferably, the motion parameters are calculated at least in part based on the technical parameters.

[0058] Preferably, the technical parameters are based at least in part on data related to gyroscope measurements, which are associated with the orientation of at least one hand paddle in the device.

[0059] Preferably, the technical parameters are based at least in part on accelerometer measurements related to the acceleration of at least one hand paddle of the device.

[0060] Preferably, the method includes initiating a virtual exercise session and displaying the movement of a digital user avatar and the movement of at least one other avatar in the same virtual environment on a display screen of a computing device.

[0061] Preferably, at least one of the following is identified based at least in part on periodic patterns in data related to sensor measurements: type of exercise; type of swimming stroke performed on the swimming trainer; number of swimming strokes performed on the swimming trainer; and / or swimming stroke rate performed on the device.

[0062] According to another aspect described herein, a system is provided comprising: an apparatus, such as an exercise device, including: at least one hand paddle; and means for generating force to resist the movement of the hand paddle, the means for generating force being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and at least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the movement of the hand paddle; and a computing device directly or indirectly connected to the at least one sensor via a wired or wireless connection, wherein the apparatus is configured to transmit data related to the at least one measured feature to the computing device.

[0063] Preferably, the device is the aforementioned device, and the computing device includes a memory for storing software code, which, when executed on a processor, performs the aforementioned method.

[0064] Any device feature described herein can also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. The “means plus function” feature used herein can also be expressed using its corresponding structure.

[0065] Any feature of one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention in any suitable combination. In particular, features of the method aspect may be applied to features of the apparatus aspect, and vice versa. Furthermore, any, some, and / or all features of one aspect may be applied to any, some, and / or all features of any other aspect in any suitable combination. It should also be understood that specific combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspect of the invention may be independently implemented and / or provided and / or used.

[0066] The present invention also provides a computer program or computer program product for performing any of the methods described herein and / or for embodying any of the device features described herein, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon a program for performing any of the methods described herein and / or for embodying any of the device features described herein.

[0067] The present invention also provides a signal embodying a computer program or computer program product for performing any of the methods described herein and / or embodying any of the device features described herein; a method for transmitting such a signal; and a computer product whose operating system supports a computer program for performing the methods described herein and / or embodying any of the device features described herein.

[0068] Any feature of one aspect of the invention can be applied to other aspects of the invention by appropriate combination. In particular, features of the method aspect can be applied to features of the apparatus aspect, and vice versa. As used herein, the feature of "means plus function" can also be expressed by its corresponding structure, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.

[0069] Furthermore, features embedded in hardware can often be implemented through software, and vice versa. The software and hardware features mentioned in this article should be understood in this light.

[0070] This invention covers methods, systems, and apparatuses that are substantially as described herein and / or shown with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0071] The following are examples only and are used to describe one or more aspects of this document with reference to the accompanying drawings having the same reference numbers, wherein: Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the land swimming training device described in this invention; Figure 3a and Figure 3b yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of the hand paddle of the land swimming training device shown; Figure 4 yes Figure 3a and Figure 3bAn exploded view of the hand paddle shown; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the sensor's measurement results of the motion-related characteristics of the hand paddle over time; and Figure 6 This is a system architecture diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the land swimming trainer 100 according to the present invention.

[0073] The swimming trainer 100 includes at least one hand paddle. In this example, the swimming trainer includes two hand paddles 102, one in each hand held by the user. The swimming trainer 100 also includes a device for generating resistance to prevent movement of the hand paddles. In this example, the resistance-generating device (i.e., the resistance-generating device) includes a resistance band 104 or a pair of resistance bands. The resistance band 104 is connected to the hand paddle 102. The resistance band 104 is also connected to a bracket 106. In this example, the bracket is a wall-mounted bracket for securing the resistance band 104 to a wall. In other examples, the bracket may secure the resistance band to another static surface or object suitable for resisting forces applied by the user. The resistance band generates an elastic force to prevent stretching of the resistance band, thereby preventing the hand paddles 102 from moving away from the bracket 106.

[0074] The swimming training device 100 includes a support platform 108. In use, the user 110 lies on the support platform 108 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown (face down), each hand holds a paddle 102. During swimming movements, for example... Figure 1 The freestyle stroke shown involves the user first extending their arm forward towards the support 106 to relax the resistance band 104, then resisting the elastic resistance of the band and pulling their hand back towards the side of their body to complete one full stroke. This allows the user to train the muscles related to swimming in the water under the resistance of the band.

[0075] The swimming training device 100 also includes a computing device 112. In this example, the computing device is a mobile tablet. The computing device 112 can be placed on the ground in front of the tray, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this allows the user to view the display screen of the computing device while lying on the support platform 108 and using the swimming trainer.

[0076] Figure 3a and 3b yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the hand paddle of the land swimming training device shown.

[0077] The paddle includes an upper portion 114 serving as a cover and a lower portion 116 serving as a base. The cover and base fit together to form a housing, the interior of which provides enclosed space for the paddle's internal electronic components. A strap 118 connects the paddle 102 to a drag band 104. In this example, a portion of the strap 118 passes through a perforation 120 in the upper portion 114 of the housing to connect the strap 118 to the paddle 102. In this example, a portion 119 of the strap is positioned between the perforations 120, above the outer surface of the upper portion 114 of the paddle, to form a hand strap between the two perforations 120. In use, the user passes their hand through the gap between the hand strap and the outer surface of the upper portion 114 of the paddle. In other examples, the hand strap 119 may be formed separately from the strap 118 that connects the paddle 102 to the drag band 104, rather than being part of the strap 118. In this example, the paddle includes a hole 122 to allow the user to add a second hand strap or finger strap for added safety. In one example, a piece of material can be threaded through these holes to form a loop, through which the user can thread their fingers to more securely hold the paddle in their hand. Although Figure 3a and Figure 3b Not shown, but the upper surface of the paddle may include indentations, such as finger grooves, to more comfortably fit the user's hand and guide the user's fingers into the correct position, thereby mastering good swimming skills.

[0078] The paddle 102 includes various electronic components located within a housing between the upper and lower portions of the outer casing, details of which will be referred to below. Figure 4 Detailed Description. In this example, the external components of the paddle 102 include: a charging socket 124 for charging the battery inside the paddle, thereby powering the electronic components; a light-emitting diode (LED) indicator 126 for indicating the power status (e.g., on or off) or charging status (e.g., currently charging or requiring charging); and a button or switch 128 that the user can operate to control the electronic components and / or related software. The button or switch 128 may be a power button / switch for turning the paddle on or off.

[0079] Figure 4 yes Figure 3a and Figure 3b An exploded view of the hand paddle shown.

[0080] like Figure 4As shown, the paddle 102 includes at least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the paddle's motion. In this example, at least one sensor is integrated inside the paddle 102. Specifically, at least one sensor is located within a cavity 130 between the upper portion 114 and the lower portion 116 of the paddle 102 housing. The upper portion 114 and the lower portion 116 of the housing are secured together by a fixing point 131 in the lower portion 116. A corresponding fixing point (not shown) may also be provided in the upper portion 114 of the housing. The fixing point 131 may be designed as a hole with a brass insert to allow a screw to pass through, the screw being inserted from below the lower portion 116 of the housing and screwed into a threaded blind hole (not shown) inside the upper portion 114 of the housing.

[0081] Inside cavity 130, located between upper portion 114 and lower portion 116 of housing, various other electronic components are housed, including a printed circuit board 132. A rechargeable battery is also located within cavity 130 to power the electronic components. The printed circuit board is secured to the lower portion 116 of housing via four fixing points 133, which connect to four corresponding fixing points on the printed circuit board. In other examples, a different number of fixing points can be used to secure the printed circuit board and other components to the housing, thus securing the upper and lower portions of the housing together.

[0082] The cavity 130 also contains a flexible rod 134. This flexible rod is secured to the lower part 116 of the outer casing by a pair of fixing points 135, which are connected to a corresponding pair of fixing points on the flexible rod 134. The flexible rod is elastically deformable, meaning it will not permanently deform under forces typically applied by the user.

[0083] In this example, at least one sensor includes a sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the paddle 102. In this example, the sensor is a stress gauge 136. In this example, the stress gauge is mounted on the flexible rod 134. More specifically, two stress gauges 136 are mounted on the upper surface of the flexible rod. One or more additional stress gauges (not shown) may also be mounted on the opposite lower surface of the flexible rod 134. In particular, the force sensor may include multiple stress gauges (e.g., four stress gauges) arranged on the flexible rod in a Wheatstone bridge configuration. This allows for more accurate force measurements compared to a single stress gauge or even multiple (e.g., four) stress gauges in different configurations.

[0084] The stress gauge 136 is connected to the printed circuit board 132 (e.g., electrically). A slot 138 is provided on the flexible rod transversely to its length. Two pairs of parallel slots 138 are provided, each pair located at the proximal and distal ends of the flexible rod. A strap 118 passes through a strap hole 120 into the cavity 130 of the housing and wraps around the slot of the flexible rod. Thus, with the other end of the strap 118 connected to the resistance band 104, the strap 118 connects the flexible rod to the resistance band 104. In other words, the force-generating device (i.e., the resistance band) is connected to the paddle via its connection to the flexible rod. Therefore, the elastic resistance generated by the resistance band 104 on the movement of the paddle 102 will cause the flexible rod to bend. The stress gauge employs a known structure, detecting changes in the size of the flexible rod by the fluctuation of the stress gauge's resistance. The stress gauge can measure the strain on the flexible rod 134, thereby deriving a force measurement (i.e., the force applied by the user to the paddle 102 against the resistance band 104). Although the stress gauge 136 is mounted inside the fixing point that secures the rod 134 to the housing, it can also be mounted outside the fixing point (i.e., between the fixing point and the slot 138) to improve sensitivity.

[0085] In this example, at least one sensor also includes an accelerometer, which is mounted on and connected to printed circuit board 132. The accelerometer in this example is configured to measure acceleration in three directions. For example, the accelerometer can measure acceleration in three orthogonal directions relative to the observation point of user 110 using trainer 100: forward / backward (“X”), left / right (“Y”), and up / down (“Z”).

[0086] In addition to a stress gauge, the advantage of adding an accelerometer is that it allows for the calculation of power parameters for the user without needing to know the strength of the resistance band. Using only a stress gauge, it's impossible to distinguish between strain generated by pulling a high-resistance band at low speed and the same strain generated by pulling a low-resistance band at high speed. Adding both an accelerometer and a stress gauge solves this problem, enabling the calculation of power parameters regardless of the resistance band's strength. This allows users to switch between resistance bands of varying strengths based on their own strength level.

[0087] In this example, at least one sensor also includes a gyroscope, which is mounted on and connected to printed circuit board 132. In this example, the gyroscope is configured to measure the paddle's position relative to an axis along or aligned with the paddle's length (i.e., Figure 3b The orientation of the "L" axis in the measurement, and / or the measurement of the paddle relative to the axis along or aligned with the width of the paddle (i.e., Figure 3bThe gyroscope measures the orientation of the hand paddle relative to an axis (not shown) that runs vertically through the paddle and is perpendicular to both the "L" and "W" axes. In other examples, the gyroscope can also be configured to measure the orientation of the hand paddle relative to an axis (not shown) that is perpendicular to both the "L" and "W" axes, representing the paddle's yaw. The gyroscope can also be additionally or alternatively configured to measure the rate of change of orientation of the hand paddle in either of these directions. Thus, the gyroscope can be used to measure the angle of the user's hand toward the ground during the "catch" phase of the freestyle stroke (a good technique is to keep the hand perpendicular to the ground during the catch phase), and to measure any rollover of the user's hand (relative to the "L" axis) during the "pull" and "push" phases of the stroke (a good technique is to minimize hand rollover during the stroke).

[0088] In the example above, both paddles 102 contain the same electronic equipment, including the same set of sensors (stress gauges, accelerometers, and gyroscopes) to independently measure the motion characteristics of each paddle using their respective sensors.

[0089] While stress gauges, accelerometers, and gyroscopes have been mentioned in the above description, other sensors may be used in other examples. For instance, pressure sensors, such as piezoelectric or piezoresistive pressure sensors, can be used to measure the force applied by the user to the resistance band.

[0090] Similarly, while the above description mentions a resistance band as a means of generating a force against the movement of the paddle 102, in other examples, the means of generating a force may additionally or alternatively include a flywheel (such as an air-resistance or water-resistance flywheel) or a weight plus pulley device, such as a device by which a user moves their own weight against gravity using pulleys.

[0091] When the force-generating device includes a flywheel or a weighted pulley system, the sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the paddle can be integrated with the force-generating device, rather than with the paddle itself. For example, the force-generating device may include a drag flywheel. In this case, the sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the paddle can be connected to the flywheel to measure the characteristics of the flywheel's motion (e.g., the flywheel's rotational speed) to derive the force measurement.

[0092] Figure 5 An exemplary sensor measurement graph is shown, reflecting characteristics related to the motion of the hand paddle over time. In this example, the sensor measures the strain measured by the stress gauge 136 of the hand paddle 102, which is related to the force applied by the user to the hand paddle 102 to move it against the elastic resistance of the drag band 104.

[0093] The y-axis of the graph shows the stress measured by the stress gauge as a function of time on the x-axis. Units are not shown in the graph. As can be seen from the graph, the strain exhibits a significant periodic change over time, with four distinct peaks. These peaks represent a single stroke performed by the user. Of the four peaks, three have a pronounced square wave shape, with steep rises and falls, and a flat line in the middle. However, one of the four peaks (the second peak) has a pronounced triangular shape, with gentler rises and falls (including a particularly gentle fall), and no flat line in the middle. The strain curve during a stroke can provide insights for the user. For example, based on the strain curve, the user can determine whether the "pull" phase of their stroke is stronger than the "push" phase, which may indicate that the user should focus on training the "pull" phase, and vice versa.

[0094] Similar graphs can be plotted using data from accelerometers or gyroscopes. For example, the three acceleration components measured by an accelerometer (i.e., acceleration along the X, Y, and Z axes) can be plotted independently over time. Such graphs can identify periodic patterns in the acceleration components that represent paddling motions. For instance, on the X-axis (the forward-backward axis from the user's perspective), acceleration will exhibit a periodic pattern, including a positive peak (when the user begins to extend forward during the "extension" phase of the stroke) and a negative peak (when the user begins to pull back after the "catch" phase). The negative peak is typically smaller than the positive peak because there is no resistance when extending forward during the extension phase, while the pullback is subject to the elastic resistance of the drag band, causing a decrease in paddling acceleration.

[0095] The gyroscope readings are relative to the paddle's axis along or aligned with the paddle's length (i.e., Figure 3b The "flipping" of the "L" axis and / or the paddle relative to the axis along or aligned with the width of the paddle (i.e., the "L" axis) Figure 3b The "tilt" of the gyroscope (corresponding to the "W" axis) can be plotted as a curve over time. Good technique should show that during the extension phase of the stroke, the user's hand is horizontal and upward, while during the catch phase, the hand should be tilted forward so that it points directly at the ground during the subsequent push and pull phases. Good technique should also show that the user's hand does not rotate relative to the "W" axis from the catch to the push and pull phases. Using this gyroscope data, the user's hand orientation during the entire stroke can be analyzed.

[0096] Furthermore, data from various sensors can be combined to gain insights into the timing of each stroke phase relative to another. For example, the timing of the "catch" phase is crucial for efficient swimming technique. Good technique involves immediately beginning to pull the hand back after the catch phase (when the user's hands are tilted forward towards the ground). Similarly, good technique involves keeping the user's hands pointing downward throughout the push-pull phase of the stroke. By overlaying data from stress meters and gyroscopes, the timing of the "catch" phase relative to the pull can be revealed, identifying whether the swimmer is changing hand orientation too late at the start of the pull (i.e., starting to pull backward before the hands are pointing downward) or too early at the end of the stroke (i.e., returning the hands to a horizontal position before the push phase ends). These insights allow users to make small, controlled adjustments to their stroke technique based on the insights provided by the sensor data, thereby improving technique and swimming performance.

[0097] Figure 6 This is a system architecture diagram illustrating another aspect of the swimming trainer 100, which enables users to visualize their swimming skills through virtual avatars on computing device 112 and join virtual swimming sessions using the swimming trainer 100. For example, users can participate in virtual swimming sessions, such as competitions, with other remote users of the swimming trainer, or they can participate in virtual swimming sessions with avatars (i.e., non-player characters) generated by computing device 112.

[0098] The system includes the aforementioned paddle 102 and computing device 112. While this figure shows only one paddle 102, in other examples, the system includes two paddles operating in the same manner. Paddle 102 includes a printed circuit board 132 and at least one sensor connected (e.g., electrically) to the printed circuit board. In this example, the sensors include a stress meter 136, an accelerometer 140, and a gyroscope 142. In this example, paddle 102 is connected to computing device 112 via a short-range wireless connection 144 (specifically, a Bluetooth® connection). In other examples, different wireless connections may be used, such as an ANT+ (Adaptive Network Topology) connection. In other examples, the connection may be a wired connection. In this example, computing device 112 is a mobile tablet or mobile phone device. In other examples, computing device may be a laptop or other electronic device or electronic system, including a processor, memory, and display.

[0099] In use, the sensor is configured to measure at least one characteristic related to the motion of the paddle, such as strain (related to the force exerted by the user on the paddle against the resistance band), acceleration (related to the acceleration of the paddle under the force applied by the user), and / or direction (related to the direction of the user's hand), as described above. The paddle 102 includes a Bluetooth® transceiver (e.g., via an electrical connection) connected to a printed circuit board 132 to receive data related to the sensor measurements from the sensor and to transmit data related to these sensor measurements to a computing device 112 via a Bluetooth® connection to a corresponding transceiver on the computing device. For example, the data related to the sensor measurements may be the raw sensor measurement values ​​themselves or data proportional to the sensor measurements. In other examples, the data may be an encoded form of the sensor measurements. In still other examples, the data may be converted into another metric or a set of metrics, and data containing these metrics may be transmitted to the mobile device 112.

[0100] Ideally, the data transmitted from the paddle 102 to the computing device 112 includes the following ten information fields: 1 int16_t Accelerometer X: This data field represents the measurement value of the accelerometer sensor in the X direction (i.e., the forward and backward direction from the user's perspective). This value may be scaled, for example, the value 16383 = 2G (where G is the acceleration due to gravity). 2 int16_t Accelerometer Y: This data field represents the measurement value of the accelerometer sensor in the Y direction (i.e., the left-right direction from one side to the other from the user's perspective). This value may be scaled, for example, the value 16383 = 2G (where G is the acceleration due to gravity). 3 int16_t Accelerometer Z: This data field represents the measurement value of the accelerometer sensor in the Z direction (i.e., the up and down direction from the user's perspective). This value may be scaled, for example, value 16383 = 2G (where G is the acceleration due to gravity). 4 int16_t Gyroscope X: This data field represents the measurement value of the gyroscope sensor in the "flipping" direction (i.e., the user's hand flipping around the length axis "L" of the paddle). This value can be scaled, for example, 32763 = 245 degrees (in which case the gyroscope measures direction), or 245 degrees / second (in which case the gyroscope measures the rate of change of direction). 5 int16_t Gyroscope Y: This data field represents the measurement value of the gyroscope sensor in the "tilt" direction (i.e., the tilt of the user's hand around the width axis "W" of the paddle). This value can be scaled; for example, 32763 represents 245 degrees (in which case the gyroscope measures direction), or 245 degrees / second (in which case the gyroscope measures the rate of change of direction). 6 int16_t Gyroscope Z: This data field represents the measurement value of the gyroscope sensor in the "yaw" direction (i.e., the yaw of the user's hand around an axis orthogonal to the "L" and "W" axes and perpendicular to the joystick). This value can be scaled, for example, 32763 = 245 degrees (the gyroscope measures direction), or 245 degrees / second (the gyroscope measures the rate of change of direction). 7 uint32_t Force: This data field represents the force applied by the user to the hand paddle against the resistance of a force-generating device (e.g., the elasticity of a drag band). This data field may be from the raw measurement of the stress gauge. Alternatively, given that the stress gauge measures the deformation of rod 134, this data field may represent a force index derived from the stress gauge measurement, such as a calibrated force obtained by scaling the stress gauge measurement using a calibration constant or calibration function that maps the deformation of rod 134 to the force applied to the hand paddle. 8 bool Button / Switch A: This data field indicates the position of the button / switch on the joystick, for example, with... Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 4 The button / switch 128 shown is similar to this button / switch. When the button is pressed or the switch is in the first position, the value of this data field is "0"; when the button is not pressed or the switch is in the second position, the value of this data field is "1", and vice versa. 9 bool Button / Switch B: This data field indicates the position of another button / switch on the joystick, for example, with... Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 4 The button / switch 128 shown is another button / switch similar to the one shown. When the button is pressed or the switch is in the first position, the value of this data field is "0"; when the button is not pressed or the switch is in the second position, the value of this data field is "1", and vice versa. 10 uint32_t Timestamp: This data field represents the time since the device was powered on (e.g., in milliseconds), allowing each set of data received by the computing device to be sorted by time. Preferably, the entire set of 10 data fields listed in this table is transmitted every 10 milliseconds, meaning that this timestamp increments by 10 milliseconds each time a dataset is transmitted. The “Data Type” column in the table above indicates the transmission format of each data field. The “int16_t” data type is a 2-byte signed integer, “uint32_t” is a 4-byte unsigned integer, and the “bool” data type is a Boolean value (i.e., “0” or “1”).

[0101] In addition to data transferred from the paddle 102 to the computing device 112, data can also be transferred from the computing device 112 to the paddle 102. In particular, it may be necessary to periodically update the firmware stored on the paddle 102 (e.g., stored in memory connected to the paddle's printed circuit board 132). Therefore, the computing device 112 can be configured to transfer firmware updates to the paddle 102 from time to time via Bluetooth® connection 144 as needed.

[0102] The computing device 112 includes a non-transient computer-readable medium, such as non-volatile memory, in which computer code is stored. When this code is executed on the processor of the computing device, a method is executed to process data received from the paddle 102 via the Bluetooth® connection 144, thereby enabling the user to visualize their technology through an avatar displayed on the computing device and enabling the user to participate in virtual swimming sessions (with a remote user or a computer-generated avatar).

[0103] This method involves receiving measurement data from at least one sensor (e.g., stress meter 136, accelerometer 140, and gyroscope 142) on a computing device 112. In this example, the data is received via a Bluetooth® connection 144 between the paddle 102 and the computing device 112. This data is associated with at least one characteristic of the movement of the paddle 112 of the land swimming trainer 100. The data can be raw measurements from the sensors, or data derived from or converted from raw sensor data. For example, the data may be scaled, or may contain one or a set of metrics calculated from the raw sensor measurements. The data may take the form of an exemplary 10-field dataset as described in the table above.

[0104] The method then calculates movement parameters of the digital avatar displayed on the screen of computing device 112, based at least in part on the received data. In this example, the digital avatar is a swimmer character displayed in a simulated aquatic environment, such as a simulated swimming pool or open water environment displayed on the computing device. In this example, the character is part of a swimming game running on computing device 112. Movement parameters may be, for example, the speed at which the avatar moves on the screen and / or the direction in which the avatar moves on the screen and / or the swimming posture performed by the avatar on the screen.

[0105] The method then involves moving the digital avatar on the display screen of the computing device 112 according to the calculated movement parameters.

[0106] In one example, computing device 112 receives strain gauge data from strain gauge 136 of paddle 102 via Bluetooth® connection 144. Based on this strain data, the force exerted by the user on paddle 102 to overcome the resistance of the drag band can be derived (e.g., based on the calibration described above). The movement parameters of the digitized avatar are calculated, at least in part, based on the derived force. In this example, the movement parameter is the avatar's forward velocity. The digitized avatar is then moved according to the calculated movement parameters on the display of computing device 112.

[0107] Motion parameters can be calculated by linearly mapping strain data received from sensors (or force data derived from strain data) to the avatar's forward velocity. For example, a computing device can store the mapping from strain / force to avatar velocity. In this example, if the user applies a specific force to the paddle, the avatar will move at a velocity proportional to that force.

[0108] Alternatively, instead of a simple linear mapping, a calibration function can be used to map strain / force data to the avatar's forward velocity, thereby calculating motion parameters. This calibration function maps a given strain / force measurement from a stress gauge to the avatar's velocity, potentially representing the actual velocity a swimmer achieves when applying that force while swimming in water. This calibration function can be derived from real-world experimental data that correlates the force applied by a real swimmer in water with the actual velocity achieved by the swimmer. For example, this calibration function can also be used to simulate the effects of water resistance, i.e., increasing the force applied to the paddle when the avatar is moving at a low speed, resulting in a greater increase in the avatar's velocity than when the avatar is moving at a high speed.

[0109] In any case, motion parameters can be scaled according to technical parameters. Technical parameters may be based on the difference between the user's actual stroke technique measured by sensors and the model's stroke technique. For example, if gyroscope measurements indicate that the user's hand is not pointing vertically downwards towards the ground during the push-pull phase of the stroke (ideally), or that the user's hand flips during the stroke, then the avatar speed generated from a given strain gauge or force measurement might be scaled to account for the swimmer's poor technique, thus improving the realism of the avatar simulation. Similarly, if the technique is closer to the model's technique, the avatar speed generated from a given strain / force measurement might be increased accordingly.

[0110] Technical parameters may comprise multiple components representing various aspects of swimming technique (such as the user's arm angle during the catch phase and the straightness of the user's pull). Technical parameters can be calculated by adding each component together. The magnitude of each component in the technical parameters can be determined based on the expected impact of the corresponding aspect of the user's technique on the swimmer's speed in the real world.

[0111] Alternatively, instead of scaling the movement parameters through technical parameters, allowing the avatar's movement to be unaffected by technology, the technical parameters can be output to the user as technical scores (e.g., displayed on the screen of computing device 112).

[0112] The data received by the computing device 112 from the hand paddles 102 can be used to identify imbalances in the user's swimming technique. For example, the computing device 112 can compare stress gauge data from the left and right hand paddles to identify whether there is an imbalance in the force applied by the user to each hand paddle. This helps the user correct such imbalances, which would otherwise lead to technical inefficiency. Therefore, the aforementioned technical parameters can be provided separately for each hand paddle to show the user in which aspects their left and right arm techniques differ.

[0113] Similarly, computing devices can identify areas where a user's arm movements may be inefficient during the stroke by comparing accelerometer data. For example, an effective technique is for the user to start the "catch" motion, pull back towards the side of the body, and continue pushing back along the side of the body in a generally straight line. The computing device can be configured to identify, based on Y-axis accelerometer data, the degree to which the user is pulling or pushing inwards or outwards, rather than pulling or pushing in a straight line along the side of the body.

[0114] The computing device can also be configured to animate the avatar on the device's display screen to simulate the movements of a swimming trainer user. For example, the avatar's arm stroke animation can be synchronized with the user's arm stroke, so that, for example, when the user extends and retracts their right arm, the avatar will also extend and retract their right arm at the same time.

[0115] The computing device can also be configured to analyze data received from the hand paddle to identify the type of swimming stroke the user is performing (i.e., freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, etc.). This can be achieved by matching patterns of sensor data changing over time (e.g., accelerometer data changing over time) with example patterns of a specific swimming stroke stored in the computing device's memory. The computing device can also be configured to animate the avatar on the computing device's display screen to simulate the user's swimming stroke detected by the computing device.

[0116] The computing device can also be configured to identify periodic patterns in the data received from the sensor (e.g., such as...). Figure 5 The periodic patterns in the stress gauge data shown are used to calculate the number of cycles, which is used to count the number of strokes performed by the user. Similarly, the stroke rate (e.g., strokes per minute) can be derived from the number of strokes per unit time.

[0117] The above method has many advantages. First, it provides users with valuable insights into their swimming technique, helping them correct technical deficiencies. Second, users can identify their technical weaknesses without the need for mirrors or cameras, or the assistance of coaches or partners. Third, the sensors can detect swimmers' technical weaknesses that are not easily perceived by the naked eye or senses.

[0118] Another advantage of this invention is that it enables users to participate in virtual swimming competitions with users of other similar swimming trainers located away from the aforementioned swimming trainer 100 (user 110). This provides users with a more engaging training experience. To achieve this, the computing device 112 in this example has a persistent connection 146 (directly or indirectly) to additional computing devices and / or other software modules. In this example, connection 146 is an internet connection, while other computing devices or software modules (148, 150, 152, 154) are located remotely from computing device 112.

[0119] Specifically, computing device 112 is connected to streaming media server 148 via internet connection 146. Streaming media server 148 supports multiplayer gaming, allowing users 110 of swimming trainer 100 to interact and compete with users of other swimming trainers via the internet. Streaming media server 148 acts as an intermediary server between computing device 112 of swimming trainer 100 and computing devices of other swimming trainers used by other users.

[0120] In multiplayer games, the display screen of computing device 112 shows multiple different avatars representing various remote users in a simulated environment, such as a swimming pool. A streaming server receives information from computing device 112 via an internet connection regarding the position and speed of the avatar representing user 110 of swimming trainer 100 (as described above, this information is calculated based on sensor data), and also receives corresponding information regarding the position and speed of avatars representing other users in the multiplayer game. The information received by the streaming server is transmitted to computing device 112 so that the computing device can display the position and speed of other users' avatars relative to the position and speed of user 110's avatar on swimming trainer 100, thereby facilitating multiplayer competition.

[0121] Streaming server 148 is connected to game engine 150 via an internet connection or other means. Game engine 150 is a 3D computer graphics game engine used to store game software (such as software that generates game environments and avatars). The bidirectional connection between streaming server 148 and game engine 150 allows the streaming server to push updates to game engine 150 as needed. The game engine can also store calibration information and calibration functions used to convert sensor data from sensors 136, 140, and 142 into movement parameters for the avatar in the game, as described above. During use, streaming server 148 can periodically contact game engine 150 to retrieve calibration information from the game engine in order to calculate the avatar's movement parameters based on sensor data received from computing device 112. Alternatively, calibration information and calibration functions can be stored on computing device 112 (e.g., downloaded from game engine 150), so that sensor data can be locally converted into avatar movement parameters on computing device 112. In this case, streaming server 148 may not periodically contact game engine 150 to retrieve calibration information during gameplay.

[0122] Data storage 152 is equipped with a connection to streaming media server 148 (such as an internet connection). Data storage 152 provides long-term storage functionality for storing information about exercises performed on swimming trainer 100. For example, data storage 152 can store records of each exercise performed by user 110 on swimming trainer 100, including sensor data records collected throughout the exercise. Data storage 152 can also store summary data of all user exercises (such as the total distance of virtual swimming in all exercises). Streaming media server 148 can retrieve this information from data storage 152 and transmit it to computing device 112 to display previous exercise information to the user.

[0123] In this example, the data storage 152 also transmits data via a third-party application (such as Strava). TM Or TrainingPeaks TM The system connects to the game engine 150 (e.g., via an internet connection and a suitable application programming interface (API)). This allows users to view their swimming trainer through third-party applications. Similarly, data storage 152 can import real-world exercise data (such as swimming in water) performed by the user from third-party applications. This information can be used to update calibration data in the game engine 150, thereby personalizing the calibration data for each user. This information can also be used to generate an avatar that replicates the user's real swimming movements (such as that stored or recorded in third-party application 154) so ​​that users of the swimming trainer 100 can compare their performance in the game with their performance in the real world.

[0124] It is worth noting that although the above description illustrates the different functions performed by various computing devices, the allocation of functions among computing devices is merely an example. Computing device 112 can perform all of the above functions independently, or it can perform the above functions in any combination with other computing devices.

[0125] It should be understood that the invention has been described above by way of example only, and modifications to the details are possible within the scope of the invention.

[0126] Each feature disclosed in the specification, as well as (where appropriate) the claims and drawings, may be provided individually or in any suitable combination.

[0127] The reference numerals appearing in the claims are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A land swimming training device, characterized in that, include: At least one hand paddle; A force-generating device for resisting the movement of at least one hand paddle, the force-generating device being connected to the at least one hand paddle; and At least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the motion of the at least one hand paddle.

2. The land swimming training device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one sensor includes at least one sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to the at least one hand paddle, preferably a stress meter for measuring the force applied by the user to the at least one hand paddle.

3. The land swimming training device according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least one sensor for measuring the force applied by a user to at least one hand paddle includes a stress meter mounted on the flexible bar of at least one hand paddle.

4. The land swimming training device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connection between the force-generating device and at least one hand paddle includes the connection between the force-generating device and the flexible rod of the hand paddle, preferably, the connection between the force-generating device and the flexible rod includes a hand strap.

5. The land swimming training device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one sensor for measuring the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle is integrated with the force-generating device.

6. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one sensor includes an accelerometer, and preferably, the at least one hand paddle includes the accelerometer.

7. The land swimming training device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The accelerometer is configured to measure the acceleration of at least one hand paddle in at least two directions, preferably in three directions.

8. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one sensor includes a gyroscope, and preferably, the at least one hand paddle includes the gyroscope.

9. The land swimming training device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The gyroscope is configured to measure the orientation of the at least one hand paddle relative to an axis that is along or aligned with the length direction of the at least one hand paddle.

10. The land swimming training device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The gyroscope is configured to measure the orientation of the at least one hand paddle relative to an axis that is along or aligned with the width direction of the at least one hand paddle.

11. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one sensor includes a pressure sensor, preferably a piezoelectric or piezoresistive pressure sensor, for measuring the force applied by the user to at least one hand paddle.

12. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one sensor is integrated into the interior of at least one hand paddle.

13. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one hand paddle includes a pair of hand paddles, and each hand paddle includes the at least one sensor.

14. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The force-generating device includes at least one of the following: one or more elastic resistance bands; a flywheel; and / or a weight and pulley system, preferably the pulley system being used to move the user's weight.

15. The land swimming training device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a bench on which the user can lie and move the at least one hand paddle against the force-generating device.

16. A computer-implemented method, characterized in that, include: Receive sensor measurement data on a computing device that relates to at least one characteristic of the motion of at least one hand paddle of a land swimming trainer; Based at least in part on the received data, the motion parameters of the digital user avatar being displayed on the computing device's screen are calculated; and Based on the calculated movement parameters, the digital avatar is moved on the display screen of the computing device.

17. The computer-implemented method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The data related to the sensor measurements include data related to the force exerted by the user against a resistance on the at least one hand paddle.

18. The computer-implemented method according to claim 17, characterized in that, Calculating the motion parameters includes calculating the speed of the digital user avatar based at least in part on data associated with the force applied by the user to the at least one hand paddle.

19. The computer-implemented method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The motion parameters are calculated at least in part based on technical parameters.

20. The computer-implemented method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The technical parameters are based, at least in part, on gyroscope measurements related to the orientation of at least one hand paddle of the land swimming trainer.

21. The computer-implemented method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The technical parameters are based, at least in part, on accelerometer measurements related to the acceleration of at least one hand paddle of the land swimming trainer.

22. The computer-implemented method according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that, This includes initiating a virtual swimming session and displaying the movement of a digital user avatar and the movement of at least one other avatar in the same virtual environment on the display of a computing device. Preferably, the other avatar includes: an avatar representing the performance of another user on another swimming trainer; and / or an avatar representing a preset or target swimming speed.

23. The computer-implemented method according to any one of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that, This includes identifying at least one of the following based at least in part on periodic patterns in data related to sensor measurements: the type of swimming stroke performed on the swimming trainer; the number of swimming strokes performed on the swimming trainer; and / or the swimming stroke rate performed on the swimming trainer.

24. A system, characterized in that, include: Land swimming training equipment, including: At least one hand paddle; A force-generating device for resisting the movement of at least one hand paddle, said force-generating device being connected to at least one hand paddle; and At least one sensor configured to measure at least one feature related to the motion of at least one hand paddle, and A computing device, connected directly or indirectly to at least one sensor via a wired or wireless connection. The swimming trainer is configured to transmit data related to at least one measurement feature to a computing device.

25. The system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The land swimming trainer is a land swimming trainer according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and the computing device includes a memory storing software code that, when executed on a processor, performs the method according to any one of claims 16 to 23.

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