Physical training aid device

Abstract

The invention relates to a physical training aid device (1), which comprises: - a rigid housing (10) which is made of an electrically insulating material, defines a recess (11) and comprises a dome-shaped cover (12) and a base (14); - a plate (20) which is made of an electrically conductive elastic polymer material, rests on the cover (12) by matching the shape thereof and is provided with an array of spikes (22); - a dome-shaped shell (30) which is made of an electrically conductive polymer material, is located above the plate (20) and entirely covers this plate, a free space separating it from the plate (20), a free edge (32) of the shell being secured to the housing, the plate (20) and the shell (30) defining a pressure sensor (100) which is capable of generating a signal in response to a force applied to the shell; and - an electronic management system (40) of the pressure sensor (100), which is arranged inside the recess (11) and connected to the pressure sensor (100).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title of the invention: Physical training aid device

[0003] Field of invention

[0004] [1] The invention relates to a physical training device for measuring the effort when pressure is exerted on its external surface.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] [2] In recent years, more and more people are deciding to do sports sessions at home by following various programs or videos found on the internet. Thus, many devices have been developed to help users carry out physical activity at home, whether as part of rehabilitation, training or even a game. The user can thus organize the space with existing devices and be guided during the session.

[0007] [3] For example, there are sets of interactive units configured to communicate with a mobile application during a training session. The interactive units are separate and can detect an action by the player when he exerts pressure on them with his hand or foot. An example of interactive units is presented in document WO2017025972. The units described in this document comprise a base and a stand forming a housing, the housing comprising a pressure sensor as well as a Bluetooth® transmitter to send the information measured by the sensor. All the information is sent to a receiver and a mobile application which will analyze the data and present the information to the user.

[0008] [4] Although practical, existing interactive units include a hard base which presents safety issues and can lead to injuries to users, particularly if the unit tips over. In addition, the sensors used are relatively expensive to manufacture, which increases the manufacturing cost of the unit.

[0009] [5] The applicant has developed a compact training aid device allowing pressure to be exerted on the hands and feet without risk of injury while protecting the electronic system during the user's training. This device, described in document FR3136679, comprises:

[0010] - a rigid base defining a first housing closed by a cover,

[0011] - a base made of an elastic polymer material resting on the base and fixed thereto, the base having, on the side opposite the base, a support wall forming a drive surface, the support wall defining with the rest of the base a second housing located above the first housing and separated from it by the cover of the base,

[0012] - a pressure sensor arranged inside the second housing in contact with the support wall of the base, the pressure sensor being capable of generating a signal in response to a force exerted on the wall,

[0013] - an electronic pressure sensor management system arranged inside the first housing and connected to the pressure sensor.

[0014] [6] The present invention aims to improve existing training aid devices, particularly in terms of sensitivity to support forces, simplicity of production, sealing, stability, and functionalities offered. To this end, the sensor is no longer enclosed inside the housing of a casing but forms an external part of the device, which also makes it possible to increase the surface area of ​​the sensor.

[0015] [7] The invention thus relates to a device for assisting physical training comprising:

[0016] [8] - a rigid housing made of electrically insulating material defining a housing, the housing comprising a dome-shaped cover and a base secured to the cover, optionally the housing consists of the cover and the base,

[0017] [9] - a plate made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material resting on the dome-shaped cover and conforming to the shape of the latter, said plate being provided with a mesh of spikes on its face opposite the housing,

[0018]

[0010] - a shell made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material having a dome shape, located above the plate and covering it entirely, a free space being provided between the shell and the plate, a free edge of the shell being secured to the rigid housing, the plate and the shell defining a pressure sensor capable of generating a signal in response to a force exerted on the shell, in particular a signal proportional to the force exerted on the shell,

[0019]

[0011] - an electronic pressure sensor management system arranged inside the housing and connected to the pressure sensor.

[0020]

[0012] The aid device according to the invention has the advantage of being simple to produce, with a reduced number of parts.

[0021]

[0013] Furthermore, the presence of a mesh of pins on the sensor plate and the fact that the sensor forms the outer surface of the device, make it possible to improve the detection sensitivity of the sensor, and consequently of the device.

[0022]

[0014] Furthermore, the general dome shape of the aid device according to the invention promotes its flatness on the ground and its stability, as well as the return of the shell to its initial shape in the absence of pressure exerted.

[0023]

[0015] By way of example, good stability of the aid device according to the invention can be obtained with a ratio of height of the housing to maximum dimension of the housing of 10 to 40%, preferably of 15 to 25%, the height being measured perpendicular to a lower face of the housing and the maximum dimension corresponding to the maximum dimension of this lower face of the housing, on which the housing rests on a flat face (ground or other).

[0024]

[0016] Finally, by its structure, the training aid device is sufficiently flexible, in particular because the sensor made of polymer material constitutes the top of the device, and typically represents more than 90% of the external surface of the aid device, to allow pressure from the hands and feet without risk of injury. The presence of the rigid housing also makes it possible to protect the electronic management system of the sensor without impacting the sensitivity of the sensor which is placed above. The training aid device is also compact which allows it to be easily moved and positioned even in confined spaces.

[0025]

[0017] Generally, the cover of the housing and the shell may have radii of curvature chosen so that the distance separating the shell from the plate resting on the cover is constant over their entire surface. In this way, each vertex of a pin of the plate, the shape of which matches that of the cover, may be located at the same distance from the shell. The sensitivity of the sensor is then identical at every point of its external surface.

[0026]

[0018] Advantageously, for better stability, an external lateral surface of the base can extend in the extension of the sensor shell. The entire drive device according to the invention then has a dome shape.

[0027]

[0019] The housing (cover and base) is made of electrically insulating material, preferably of polymer material. Typically, an electrically insulating polymer material has an electrical resistivity of at least 10 8 Ohm. cm.

[0028]

[0020] The housing of the device according to the invention is rigid. Advantageously, the cover and at least part of the base can then be made of rigid material, preferably of rigid polymer material. By "rigid polymer material" is meant a non-deformable material. This type of material typically has a Shore D hardness of 40 to 80 points measured according to the ISO 48-4:2018 standard.

[0029]

[0021] In particular, the stabilized Shore D hardness can be measured according to the ISO 48-4:2018 standard, the measurement of which is taken after 3 seconds of application of force. It should be remembered that Shore D hardness is a measurement scale from 0 to 100 and the values ​​of which typically vary from 25 to 95 points.

[0030]

[0022] Non-limiting examples of rigid polymers that can be used include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PB T), or any other material having a Shore D hardness of 40 to 80 points measured according to ISO 48-4:2018.

[0031]

[0023] The base may be made entirely of rigid polymer material.

[0032]

[0024] However, in an advantageous embodiment, the base may have a portion, preferably an internal portion, made of rigid polymer material and another portion, preferably an external portion, made of elastic polymer material. The elastic polymer material may typically have a Shore A hardness, measured according to ISO 48-4:2018, of 50 to 90 points.

[0033]

[0025] By "elastic polymer material" is meant an elastic material capable of returning to its initial shape following deformation. Typically, a material is said to be elastic when it shrinks within 1 minute to less than 1.5 times its original length after being stretched at room temperature (18 to 29°C) to twice its original length and held for 1 minute before release.

[0034]

[0026] Thus, in one embodiment, the base may have a first part made of rigid polymer material and a second part made of elastic polymer material, the second part covering at least a part of a lower face of the first part intended to rest on a flat surface and / or a lateral face of the first part in the extension of the shell of the sensor. Such a base may make it possible on the one hand to further absorb the shocks suffered by the housing and on the other hand to limit the sliding of the device on a hard floor.

[0035]

[0027] Preferably, the second part covers at least a portion of a lower face for better adhesion of the aid device according to the invention to the surface on which it rests. More preferably, this second part covers at least a portion of the lower face of the first part intended to rest on a flat surface and of the lateral face of the first part. This second part can then form an external lateral surface of the base extending in the extension of the shell of the sensor. The external surface of the entire aid device according to the invention can thus be made of elastic material, which can prevent injuries and improve the general appearance of the device.

[0036]

[0028] Advantageously, the free edge of the shell can be pinched between the base and the cover of the housing. This can make it possible to simply ensure the sealing of the housing at the junction between the base and the cover, in particular without having to add a sealing element. Typically, this free edge extends towards the housing of the housing, parallel to a lower face of the assistance device. The pinching can then be carried out essentially in a direction perpendicular to the lower face, in particular in a direction of attachment of the base to the housing.

[0037]

[0029] Advantageously, the aid device according to the invention may comprise fixing means removably fixed to the base, on a lower face of the base intended to rest on a surface. This removable fixing may be obtained by reversible fixing elements, such as male and female parts capable of cooperating by a rotational movement, translation or a combination of these movements to achieve a reversible fixing, these fixing elements being provided on the lower face of the base and on the fixing means. The fixing means may for example comprise a plate removably fixed to the lower face of the base, for example by reversible fixing elements. The plate may comprise one or more fixing members, such as a hanging hole, a hook, a magnetic part, a Velcro® strip, a suction cup, etc.Alternatively, these fixing means may comprise one or more fixing members provided with reversible fixing elements capable of cooperating with corresponding reversible fixing elements secured to the lower face of the base.

[0038]

[0030] The constituent elements of the sensor used in the present invention, namely the shell and the plate, are entirely made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material. This allows simplicity of production while presenting an economic advantage compared to conventional pressure sensors using metal inserts.

[0039]

[0031] The shell may advantageously be made of an electrically conductive elastic polymer material having a Shore A hardness, measured according to the ISO 48-4:2018 standard, of 50 to 90 points, preferably of 60 to 85 points, typically of 70 to 80 Shore A.

[0040]

[0032] The plate may be made of an electrically conductive elastic polymer material having a Shore A hardness, measured according to the ISO 48-4:2018 standard, of 50 to 90 points, preferably 60 to 85 points, typically 70 to 80 Shore A.

[0041]

[0033] In particular, the stabilized Shore A hardness can be measured according to ISO 48-4:2018, the measurement of which is taken after 3 seconds of application of force. It should be remembered that Shore A hardness is a measurement scale from 0 to 100 and the values ​​of which typically vary from 25 to 95 points.

[0042]

[0034] Advantageously, the electrically conductive elastic polymer material used to produce the plate and the shell may comprise a matrix of electrically insulating elastic polymer material to which a conductive filler has been added.

[0043]

[0035] The electrically insulating elastic polymer material of the matrix may be chosen from natural rubber (NR), synthetic rubber such as for example an ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (also called "EPDM" for "Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer"), butadiene-acrylonitrile copolymers, also called "nitrile rubbers" (NB R), butadiene-styrene copolymers (SBR), polychloroprene (CR), polyisoprene (IR), polyurethane (PUR), poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene) (SB S), poly(styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene) (SEBS), polybutadiene (BR); or a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0044]

[0036] A thermoplastic elastomer may be a physical blend of polymers or a block copolymer (polyamides, polyether esters, polystyrenes, polyurethanes). Thermoplastic elastomers that are physical blends of polymers may be blends of polyolefins, such as PP / EPDM blends (PP: polypropylene), styrene block copolymers (TPS), or dynamically vulcanized blends (TPV, "Thermo Plastic Vulcanizates"). Thermoplastic elastomers that are block copolymers may be styrenic block copolymers (SBC), polyamide / elastomer block copolymers (COPA), polyether ester / elastomer block copolymers (COPE) and polyurethane / elastomer block copolymers (TPU).The elastomer component can be polybutadiene, poly(ethylene-co-alkene), polyisobutylene, poly(oxyethylene), poly(ester), polysiloxane or any elastomer, while the rigid (thermoplastic) component can be polystyrene, poly(methyl methacrylate), urethane, ionomer - poly(ethylene-co-acrylic acid) (sodium, Mg or Zn salt), ethylene-propylene-diene monomer and fluoropolymers.

[0045]

[0037] The conductive filler incorporated in the matrix of electrically insulating elastic polymer material may comprise powders and / or fibers, which may be metallic or contain (or be formed by) carbon (carbon black, graphite, or the like). The level of the conductive filler in the electrically insulating polymer matrix may be chosen so as to obtain an electrically conductive polymer material having an electrical resistivity that is sufficiently low to ensure proper operation of the sensor and sufficiently high to allow detection of a change in voltage or resistance caused by a variation in the contact surface between the conductive parts (the plate and the shell). Typically, the conductive polymer material used for the plate and the shell may have an electrical resistivity of at most 10 6 Ohm. cm and at least 10 2 Ohm. cm.

[0046]

[0038] In one embodiment, the base may be made of translucent or transparent polymer material. The aid device may then comprise at least one light source, typically at least one light-emitting diode, connected to the electronic management system and arranged inside the housing and / or integrated into the housing. When at least one light source is arranged inside the housing, it may be arranged as close as possible to the base in order to illuminate it, the base acting as a light guide. Alternatively or in combination, at least one light source may be integrated into the housing, and in particular into the base, for example embedded in the material of the base, overmolded with the base, in particular between a rigid part and an elastic part of the base, or housed in a groove provided for this purpose in the base or the cover.

[0047]

[0039] The management system may in particular be configured to control at least one light source so as to emit light in response to pressure exerted on the shell or in response to another signal received by the management system. It is thus possible to provide light signaling from the device to the user, for example to signal that the device must be pressed or to signal that the detector has detected pressure. This light signaling may include a change in color and / or intensity.

[0048]

[0040] The transparent or translucent polymer material constituting the base may be chosen from any transparent or translucent polymer known to those skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of transparent or translucent polymers that can be used to produce the base, and in particular the rigid and elastic parts of the base, include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).

[0049]

[0041] Advantageously, the spikes of the plate can have any shape. However, for simplicity of production and for better sensitivity, it is possible to choose a shape of revolution with axial symmetry, for example chosen from a conical, truncated conical and pyramidal shape, preferably a conical shape.

[0050]

[0042] Advantageously, for uniform detection, the pins may be identical. Alternatively or in combination, they may advantageously be distributed regularly over the entire surface of the plate, in particular with identical spacing between adjacent pin tops.

[0051]

[0043] The plate can advantageously be fixed to the cover. This fixing can be achieved by applying glue or preferably by overmolding the plate and the cover.

[0052]

[0044] The tops of the spikes may be spaced more or less apart from each other depending on the desired detection sensitivity. As a non-limiting example, a spacing between the tops of adjacent spikes of the order of 10 mm ensures the detection of a child's finger pressing the shell. A person skilled in the art will thus be able to adjust this distance depending on the desired sensitivity.

[0053]

[0045] As already mentioned, a free space is provided between the shell and the plate in the absence of external pressure exerted on the shell. The top of each spike is thus located at a distance from the shell in the absence of external pressure on the latter. A person skilled in the art will be able to determine this distance according to the sensitivity sought by tests, taking into account various parameters such as the thickness of the shell, the dimensions of the spikes, the hardness of the materials used, etc.

[0054]

[0046] By way of non-limiting example, the distance separating each vertex of a spike from the shell, in the absence of external pressure on the latter, may be 1 to 4 mm, ideally 2 mm, in particular for a shell with a thickness of 1 to 4 mm, spikes 1 to 4 mm high, and a plate 1 to 4 mm thick.

[0055]

[0047] The training assistance device may advantageously comprise an electrical circuit electrically connected to the plate, to the shell and to the electronic management system.

[0056]

[0048] Typically, this electrical circuit is closed and generates a signal when the plate and the shell are in contact, and is open when the plate and the shell are not in contact. Preferably, this signal can be proportional to the force exerted on the sensor.

[0057]

[0049] This electrical circuit may for example comprise conductive wires electrically connected to the parts to be connected. However, in a preferred embodiment, this electrical circuit is integrated into an electronic card, also called a printed circuit card in the present application. An electronic card typically comprises an insulating plate on which various electronic components are mounted, including electronic chips, resistors, capacitors, connectors, etc.

[0058]

[0050] Thus, in one embodiment, the electrical circuit may comprise electrical connectors integrated into a printed circuit board, said printed circuit board being positioned between the base and the cover of the housing, and having at least a first electrical connector in contact with the edge of the shell and at least a second electrical connector in contact with the plate.

[0059]

[0051] This makes it possible to simplify the production of the sensor.

[0060]

[0052] Advantageously, for simple production of electrical contacts with the shell and the plate, the printed circuit board may have one or more of the following characteristics:

[0061] - a peripheral area of ​​the printed circuit board is pinched between the edge of the shell and the base, and the at least one first electrical connector is located partly in this peripheral pinching area,

[0062] - the at least one second electrical connector is in contact with the plate (i) via a metal spring, one end of which is in contact with the plate and the other end in contact with the at least one second electrical connector or (ii) with a finger made of the same material as the plate and extending from the latter to the at least one second connector, the cover having at least one corresponding orifice for the passage of the spring or the finger.

[0063]

[0053] In particular, the finger or the spring may be positioned at a central point of the plate, substantially perpendicular to the lower face of the base. Whatever the embodiment, the cover may have a spacer of cylindrical or frustoconical shape extending over the entire height of the cover around the perimeter of the orifice for the passage of the finger or the spring and receiving the finger or the spring.

[0064]

[0054] Advantageously, the training assistance device may further comprise a sound device capable of generating a sound, connected to the management system and arranged inside the housing. The management system may in particular be configured to control the sound device so as to emit a sound in response to pressure exerted on the shell or in response to another signal received by the management system. It is thus possible to produce an audible signal from the device to the user, for example to signal that the device must be pressed or to signal that the detector has detected pressure. Such an audible signal may be combined with the light signal mentioned above.

[0065]

[0055] Advantageously, the management system may comprise an electricity supply device, a system for processing the signal generated by the sensor, and optionally at least one of the following elements: a remote communication system with a computer, a mobile phone, a watch or a tablet; a battery charging system.

[0066]

[0056] Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the description given below of several particular embodiments of the invention, given for informational purposes but not as a limitation, with reference to the following figures:

[0067]

[0057] [Fig. 1] is a sectional view of the training aid device according to one embodiment.

[0068]

[0058] [Fig. 2] is a perspective view of the plate provided with pins of the device shown in Figure 1.

[0069]

[0059] [Fig. 3] is a perspective view of the housing of the device shown in Figure 1.

[0070]

[0060] [Fig. 4] is a perspective view of the shell of the device shown in Figure 1.

[0071]

[0061] [Fig. 5] is a perspective view of the rigid support of the device shown in Figure 1.

[0072]

[0062] [Fig. 6] is a schematic representation of the drive device management system.

[0073]

[0063] [Fig. 7] is a sectional view of the training aid device according to another embodiment.

[0074]

[0064] [Fig. 8] is a sectional view of the training aid device according to yet another embodiment.

[0075]

[0065] [Fig. 9] is a bottom view of the device shown in Figure 8.

[0076]

[0066] In the figures, similar elements are designated by the same references.

[0077]

[0067] Figure 1 shows a training aid device 1 whose general shape is similar to a dome, with a flat lower face 2 intended to rest on a flat support (floor, wall, window, etc.) and a curved external upper face 3, in the shape of a dome. The shape of the device, here similar to a portion of a sphere with a circular lower face, is however not limited to this example and can take an ovoid shape for example.

[0078]

[0068] The training aid device 1 makes it possible to measure the effort when pressure is exerted on its external face 3 with the hand or the foot, but also with any other part of the body such as the elbow and the knee. The device can also measure the effort when pressure is applied with a training accessory which may be, for example, a racket or a bicycle or any other accessory.

[0079]

[0069] The device 1 comprises a rigid housing 10, a plate 20 made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material, a deformable shell 30 made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material and a management system 40 shown schematically in FIG. 1.

[0080]

[0070] The rigid housing 10 defines a housing 11 and comprises a dome-shaped cover 12 and a base 14 secured to the cover 12.

[0081]

[0071] By "dome-shaped" is meant a part having a curved, domed shape, which may be a portion of a sphere or any other curved surface, provided that the part has a curved shape whose convexity is directed towards the outside of the device. The general appearance of the device according to the invention is thus a domed appearance, similar to a flying saucer and thus limiting the turning over of the device.

[0082]

[0072] The rigid housing 10, and in particular its cover 12, is preferably made of a rigid electrically insulating polymer material. By way of non-limiting example, materials that can be used include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT). Any other rigid polymer material, namely non-deformable, can however be considered.

[0083]

[0073] The housing 10 can be produced in a very simple manner. In the example shown, it comprises the base 14 having the flat lower face 2 which can be placed on a surface, and the dome-shaped cover 12 fixed to the base.

[0084]

[0074] In this example, the cover 12 is provided with a plurality of vertical walls 13, for example arranged in a star shape as shown in FIG. 3, and extending here substantially over the height of the cover (measured perpendicular to the flat lower face 2). These vertical walls 13 thus make it possible to divide the housing 11 into several compartments capable of containing components of the device, such as the management system 40 and other components. These vertical walls 13 also make it possible to structurally reinforce the housing, and in particular the cover 12. The invention is of course not limited by a number of vertical walls 13 and / or by their arrangement.

[0085]

[0075] In the example, the cover 12 is fixed to the base 14 by a plurality of screws 15 distributed around the periphery of the base 12. For greater robustness, these screws 15 are here located at the level of the vertical walls 13.

[0086]

[0076] The invention is however not limited by the method of fixing the cover to the housing and fixing by clipping or by fitting can be envisaged.

[0087]

[0077] In the example shown, the base 14 has an external lateral surface 14a situated in the extension of the external upper face 3 of the assistance device, as visible in FIG. 1. The entire device thus has a dome shape, the external face of which is continuous.

[0088]

[0078] The base 14 has, on the side opposite the housing 10, a bottom wall 14b whose lower face is intended to rest on a flat surface (floor, wall, window) and whose upper face receives the cover 12 as well as the edge 32 of the shell 30. This bottom wall 14b is bordered by an annular rim of truncated cone shape which extends in the extension of the shell 30 and which forms the external lateral surface 14a. The bottom wall 14b is here pierced with a central orifice 14c, and a plurality of peripheral orifices 14d intended for the passage of the fixing screws 15. The central orifice 14c allows access to the housing 11, or to receive a battery charging system. Alternatively, this central orifice 14c could be absent, access to the housing then requiring the disassembly of the base 14.

[0089]

[0079] The plate 20 made of electrically conductive polymer material rests on the cover 12 and matches its shape. This plate 20 is typically made of an elastic electrically conductive polymer material, for example chosen from the electrically conductive polymers previously described.

[0090]

[0080] This plate 20 is provided with a mesh of pins 22 on its face 21 located on the side opposite the housing 10. These pins 22, made of the same material as the plate 20, thus protrude from the face 21 substantially perpendicularly thereto. Preferably, as shown in this example, the pins 22 are identical and distributed regularly over the entire surface of the face 21 of the plate. The apexes of adjacent pins are then separated from each other by the same distance, which can be chosen according to the desired sensitivity. Preferably, the pins 22 may have a shape of revolution with axial symmetry having a vertex, such as a cone, a truncated cone or a pyramid. Here, the pins 22 are conical.

[0091]

[0081] By way of non-limiting example, conical pins 22 may have a height of 1 to 4 mm, for example 2 mm, and a base having a diameter of

[0092] 4 mm. The spacing between adjacent spike tips can be 1 cm.

[0093]

[0082] The invention is however not limited by these dimensions, shapes, density of spikes, etc., and those skilled in the art will be able to determine by tests the most appropriate dimensions, shapes and distributions to obtain the desired sensitivity.

[0094]

[0083] The plate 20 may be produced by molding, or overmolding with the cover 12, so that it has a curved shape matching the shape of the cover 12.

[0095]

[0084] The plate 20 may optionally be fixed to the cover 12, for example by gluing, fitting or otherwise, or by overmolding onto the latter.

[0096]

[0085] The shell 30 is also made of an electrically conductive elastic polymer material and has a dome shape. Due to the elastic nature of the polymer constituting it, the shell 30 is therefore deformable under the effect of external pressure, its dome shape promoting its return to an initial position in the absence of external pressure. It is located above the plate 20 and covers it entirely, a free space 25 being provided between the shell 30 and the plate 20, a free edge 32 of the shell 30 being secured to the rigid housing 10. This free space 25, and in particular the distance separating the top of each pin 22 from the shell 30, may be defined by a person skilled in the art by tests, depending on the desired sensitivity, the dimensions of the training assistance device 1 and the materials chosen for the shell and the plate.

[0097]

[0086] As a non-limiting example, for a circular housing with a diameter of 14 to 16 cm, a plate 20 made of EPDM with a Shore A hardness of 75 ± 5 points provided with conical pins 22 with a height of 1 to 4 mm and a shell made of EPDM with a Shore A hardness of 75 ± 5 points with a thickness of 1 to 4 mm, the distance separating the tops of the pins from the shell may be 1 to 4 mm.

[0098]

[0087] This distance can advantageously be constant over the entire surface of the plate 20, as shown. The plate 20 (and consequently the cover 12) and the shell 30 are then in the form of a dome having radii of curvature adapted to maintain this distance constant.

[0099]

[0088] In the example shown, the training aid device 1 also comprises a spacer 50 made of rigid material and a rigid support 60. The spacer 50 is arranged between the base 14 and the cover 12, at the height of the edge 32 of the shell 30 (see fig. 1). It makes it possible to control the crushing of the edge 32 between the rim 16 and the base 14, for better support.

[0100]

[0089] The rigid support 60 is positioned under the base 14 of the housing. In the example, it is an annular-shaped plate at the level of which the screws 15 are positioned. It can make it possible to reinforce the fixing of the base to the cover.

[0101]

[0090] The rigid support 60 may be made of polymer or metallic material. It is equipped with a plurality of orifices 61 for the passage of the screws 15. It also comprises a central orifice 62, placed in correspondence with the orifice 14c of the base 14 when it is mounted. In this example, it is thus in the form of an annular plate. The invention is of course not limited by a specific shape, in particular the orifice 62 could be absent.

[0102]

[0091] This rigid support 60 is positioned against a lower face of the bottom wall 14b of the base 14, as shown in FIG. 1, the orifices 61 and 62 being aligned with the orifices 14d, 14c respectively of the base 12. Screws 15 introduced from below the device thus pass through the orifices 61 and 14d to the cover 12. Note that these screws are here the same as the screws 15 used to fix the cover 12 to the base 14. The cover 12 and the base 14 can then have threaded orifices for holding the screw, or the screws used can be self-tapping screws screwed directly into the material of the housing. Alternatively, different sets of screws can be used to fix the rigid support to the housing and the parts of the housing to each other, although this is not preferred.

[0103]

[0092] Thus, in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-5, the base 14 is sandwiched between the rigid support 60 and the cover 12 (see Figure 1). Furthermore, the free edge 32 of the shell 30 forms a return towards the center of the shell at the height of the base 14 of the housing and fits between a collar 16 of the cover and the base 14 vertically. In other words, the free edge 32 of the shell extends substantially parallel to the lower face 2 of the device, and fits between the cover 12, more precisely its collar 16, and the base 14 by being pinched between them, in a direction perpendicular to the lower face 2. This allows good maintenance of the assembly and also guarantees the sealing of the housing. When all the elements 10, 20, 30, 60 are assembled, the device has a dome-shaped outer face without discontinuity.

[0104]

[0093] The rigid support 60 may also be provided with fixing means (not shown) allowing it to be fixed, preferably temporarily, to a flat surface (window, wall, floor). These means may be as described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0105]

[0094] The invention is however not limited to this embodiment, and the training assistance device 1 could comprise only the housing 10, the plate 20, the shell 30 and the management system 40.

[0106]

[0095] The housing 11 of the casing may comprise (in particular receive) other elements, such as for example at least one light source 70, for example of the light-emitting diode type, and / or at least one sound device 72 connected to the management system 40.

[0107]

[0096] When one or more light sources are present, a transparent or translucent polymer material will then be chosen for the base 14. The material of the base can then form a light guide for the emitted light.

[0108]

[0097] The plate 20 and the shell 30 define a pressure sensor 100 capable of generating a signal in response to a force exerted on the shell 20.

[0109]

[0098] The training assistance device 1 also comprises an electronic management system 40 connected to the pressure sensor 100 by an electrical circuit 110. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the management system 40, located within the housing 11, for example in one of the compartments, comprises an electricity supply device 41 and a system for processing the signal 42 generated by the sensor 100.

[0110]

[0099] The electrical circuit 110 is electrically connected to the conductive parts of the sensor 100, namely to the plate 20 and to the shell 30. This electrical circuit 110 is thus closed and generates a signal when the conductive parts 20, 30 are in contact (following the exertion of pressure in a direction bringing the shell closer to the plate until they touch) and open when the conductive parts 20, 30 are not in contact.

[0111]

[0100] In the example shown in Figures 1-6, the electrical circuit 110 typically comprises three electrical conductive wires: two conductive wires 111, 112 each connected to one of the conductive parts 20, 30, one of which is a conductive wire 111 connected to the positive terminal of the electrical power supply of the power supply device 41 and the other is a conductive wire 112 connected to the negative terminal of the electrical power supply of the power supply device 4L. The electrical circuit comprises a third conductive measuring wire 113 which connects one of the conductive parts, here the plate 20, to the management system 40, which is also connected to the negative pole of the electrical power supply of the power supply device 41 by a conductive wire 114.

[0112]

[0101] The power supply device 41 may be, for example, a battery. For example, a 3.7 V, 250 mAh lithium-ion battery may be used. The battery is typically recharged by an electronic card (not shown) with a micro USB socket, for example, or via a wireless charging system, for example by induction.

[0113]

[0102] The signal processing system 42 may be a processor or a microcontroller that will allow all the peripherals to be managed. For example, an ESP32® microcontroller could be used. The signal processing system 42 is notably connected to the pressure sensor 100 by the electrical circuit 110. For this, the housing 10 may have openings allowing the wires 111, 112, 113 to pass through. The signal processing system 42 can be powered by the battery 41, for example after conversion of the voltage from 3.7 Volts to 5 Volts by a converter 43. The power supply device 41 can also make it possible to power at least one light-emitting diode (LED) 70 and / or a sound device 72, using, if necessary, a second voltage converter 44 converting for example 3.7 V to 12 V (or 5 V to 12 V by connecting the converter 44 to the converter 43).

[0114]

[0103] The processing system 42 can for example operate as follows. It measures the response of the pressure sensor 100 on one of the inputs of the analog-digital converter (12-bit CAN = 4096 values) and controls the inputs of the light-emitting diode 70 and / or the sound device 72 via a pulse width modulation signal (also called PWM or Pulse Width Modulation in English) sent to transistors. In particular, it will be possible to use an CAN having a more or less high resolution for a more or less significant sensitivity of the measurement. For example, a 12-bit CAN makes it possible to provide a digital signal from 0 to 2 12=4095. When the ADC measures a maximum input voltage, the digital signal emitted by the ADC will be 4095. For any intermediate voltage value entering the ADC, the digital signal emitted will therefore have a value between 0 and 4095. The voltage measured by the ADC will be higher the larger the contact surface of the conductive parts.

[0115]

[0104] The electrical circuit 110 generates a signal (i) representative of the value of a voltage measured between the conductive parts or a signal (ii) representative of the value of a resistance measured between the conductive parts. This signal is detected by the processing system 42, in particular by an analog-digital converter integrated into the processing system. In particular, when the conductive parts come into contact with each other, the intensity of the signal generated by the electrical circuit will increase as the contact surface between the conductive parts (the shell and the plate) increases. In other words, the intensity of the signal is proportional to the surface in contact of the conductive parts and consequently to the voltage measured between the conductive parts of the pressure sensor.This relationship between the intensity of the generated signal and the contact area of ​​the conductive parts results from the fact that the conductive parts have a sufficiently high electrical resistivity so that the voltage change caused by a variation in the contact area between the conductive parts can be detected by the processing system. Conductive polymer materials generally have a volume resistivity of 10. 6 Ohm. cm or less. Conductive polymer materials useful in the present invention may have a volume resistivity of 10 2 Ohm.cm at 10 6 Ohm. cm.

[0116]

[0105] The processing system 42 can thus be configured (programmed) to:

[0117]

[0106] (a) receiving the signal generated by electrical circuit 110 and determining a measured value (i) of voltage, and optionally the measured value (ii) of resistance, and

[0118]

[0107] (bl) determining, from the measured value (i) of voltage or (ii) of resistance, whether pressure is exerted on the sensor 100, then generating a pressure detection signal when pressure is exerted, or

[0108] (b2) determining, from the measured value (i) of voltage or (ii) of resistance, information on the amplitude of the pressure exerted on the sensor 100, then generating a signal representative of the pressure amplitude information.

[0119]

[0109] The determination of the resistance value measured during step (a2) may comprise the use of a reference resistor, which is a real physical resistor 115 of known value mounted in the electrical circuit 110 between the positive pole of the power supply device 41 and one of the conductive parts, here the shell 30. This resistor may also be positioned between the negative pole of the power supply device 41 and a measurement connector (PIN) of an electronic card in which the electrical circuit 110 is integrated.The measured resistance value Rm (which corresponds to the resistance of the conductive part to which the measuring conductor wire is connected) is then determined from the measured voltage value Ui of the electrical circuit (voltage between the measuring conductor wire 113 and the negative pole of the power supply device 41), a supply voltage U (measured between the conductor wire 111 and the conductor wire 112), and the resistance Rf of the reference resistor 115. Using the formula for a voltage divider bridge Ui = U . Rm / (Rm + Rf), Rm can then be determined.

[0120]

[0110] Step (bl) is generally implemented by comparing the measured voltage value or the measured resistance value with a threshold value. This threshold value can be determined by experimentation, depending on the desired detection threshold, which can vary depending on the use of the training device. It will be noted that this threshold depends in particular on the conductivity of the sensor materials: the higher this conductivity, the lower the threshold and the more sensitive the sensor. It is thus understood that by choosing the appropriate materials and a mesh density of the pins, a person skilled in the art can produce sensors having different detection thresholds.

[0121]

[0111] The processing system 42 is then configured to determine that pressure is exerted on the sensor 100 when the measured value is greater than the threshold value.

[0122]

[0112] Step (b2) is generally implemented by comparing the measured voltage value or the measured resistance value with a plurality of reference values, each reference value corresponding to a measured voltage, or to a measured resistance, for an exerted pressure of a predetermined amplitude. The processing system is then configured to determine the amplitude information of the exerted pressure.

[0123]

[0113] For example, a database of these reference values ​​may be established in advance, typically by experimentation. This database may, for example, be established during a calibration operation during which the signals generated by the sensor are recorded for different pressure amplitudes exerted on the sensor. Thus, the database associates, with each pressure amplitude exerted, a signal generated by the electrical circuit. The processing system 42 is then configured, in particular programmed, to extract from this database information on the amplitude of the pressure exerted.

[0124]

[0114] This database may in particular be established by the user.

[0125]

[0115] Alternatively, the management system may comprise a signal processing system 42 connected directly to the electrical circuit 110, and comprising an operational amplifier which will only allow current to pass when the voltage between the conductive wires to which it is connected (conductive wire 114 and measurement conductive wire 113) is greater than a threshold value. In this embodiment, it is not necessary to provide an actual physical resistance 115 in the electrical circuit.

[0126]

[0116] Optionally, the management system 40 also comprises a remote communication system 45 with an external device 46 such as a computer, a mobile phone, a watch or a tablet. The communication system 45 can be any wireless radio communication system. Preferably it will be a Bluetooth® system. The external device 46 advantageously has an application making it possible to manage the training device (to turn it on and off) but also to choose the desired training session or to display the data transmitted by the remote communication system of the management system. The remote communication system 45 is controlled by the signal processing system 42.

[0127]

[0117] In the case of a training session, the user can use several training devices communicating with, for example, a mobile phone through a dedicated application.

[0128]

[0118] With the training devices spaced apart in a user-defined space, each of the training devices may then be configured to: provide a light and / or sound signal detectable by the user, receive instructions from the application prompting the user to perform a physical activity or exercise, and transmit signals in response to an action by the user during the physical activity, and possibly based on the pressure exerted on the device. The physical activity includes, for example, one or more of the following activities: running, jumping, or touching one or more training devices with the feet or hands.

[0129]

[0119] In one embodiment, the training devices may be adapted to communicate with each other. One training device may be designated as the main device and the others as affiliated devices. Its management system may then be configured to receive signals from all affiliated devices and transmit information to the application. In the event that this device no longer has a battery, another training device may take over.

[0130]

[0120] The training aid device shown in Figure 7 differs from that described with reference to Figures 1-6 essentially by the shape of the base 14 and the arrangement of the electrical circuit of the sensor.

[0121] In this embodiment, the base 14 comprises a first part 140 made of rigid polymer material and a second part 142 made of elastic polymer material. In this example, the second part 142 covers at least a part of the lower face of the first part 140, corresponding to the lower face 2 of the device, and also covers a lateral face 140a of the first part 140 in the extension of the shell 30 of the sensor.

[0131]

[0122] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electrical circuit of the sensor is integrated into a printed circuit board 80 positioned between the base 14 and the cover 12. Generally, as shown here, the printed circuit board can rest on the base 14 and include openings for the passage of parts of the cover 12 resting on the base 14. This makes it possible to limit the physical stresses exerted on the printed circuit board.

[0132]

[0123] As shown, a peripheral zone 80a of the printed circuit board 80 is pinched between the edge 32 of the shell and the base 14. A first electrical connector 80b is located partly in this peripheral pinching zone, in contact with the edge 32 of the shell 30.

[0133]

[0124] A second electrical connector 80c is in contact with the plate 20, here via a metal spring 82, one end of which is in contact with the plate 20 and the other end is in contact with the second connector 80c. In the example shown, this second electrical connector 80c is positioned in the center of the printed circuit board 80. The spring 82 extends along a vertical axis, perpendicular to the lower face 2 of the device, up to the plate 20. For better retention of the spring, the plate 20 has a housing 23 receiving the end of the spring 80. Furthermore, the cover 12 is pierced with an orifice 12a for the passage of the spring 82. In addition, the cover 12 has a spacer 12b of cylindrical or frustoconical shape extending over the entire height of the cover 12 (and here up to the base 14) on the periphery of the passage orifice 12a of the spring 82 and receiving the latter.This is thus held in position ensuring good electrical contact with the plate 20 and the printed circuit board 80.

[0134]

[0125] Thus, in this embodiment, the electrical wires 111, 112, 113 are replaced by several electrical connectors 80b and 80c which are connected by electrically conductive tracks (for example made of copper) to the management system 40. A conductive track, not shown, replaces the wire 114.

[0135]

[0126] Generally, the printed circuit board may integrate the components of the electrical circuit described with reference to the embodiment of Figures 1-6, and in particular the converters described, the resistor 115; and / or the components of the management system, and in particular the signal processing system 42, the electricity supply device 41, the remote communication system 45, one or more light sources 70, one or more sound devices 72, and / or a battery charging system.

[0136]

[0127] It will be noted that the base 14 also has on its face opposite the cover, a housing 144, here annular in shape and positioned under the printed circuit board 80, capable of receiving a battery charging system, such as a wireless charging system, by induction, or any other charging system.

[0137]

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment, several light sources 70, typically LEDs, are positioned under the printed circuit board 80, here at the peripheral zone 80a of the board to be as close as possible to the external lateral surface 14a of the base and better diffuse the light towards the outside. It will also be noted that the base 14, here the rigid part 140 of the base, has a groove 141 receiving the LEDs 70. The invention is however not limited to such an arrangement of the LEDs which could be positioned in another position of the printed circuit board or be embedded in the material of the base or be housed in the groove 141 of the base, in contact with an electrical connector of the printed circuit board.

[0138]

[0129] Finally, the lower face 2 of the device shown in Figure 7 has female fixing elements 2a, which can receive male fixing elements not shown for the reversible fixing of fixing means, as described for example in more detail with reference to Figure 8.

[0139]

[0130] In this figure 8, the spring 82 is replaced by a finger 84 made in one piece with the plate 20. This finger 84 here has a truncated cone shape to facilitate its production by molding. The invention is however not limited to a particular shape of the finger 84. The spacer 12b of the cover has a similar shape, with a space separating it from the finger 84 to facilitate the demolding of the two parts when they are overmolded.

[0140]

[0131] In this embodiment, the fixing elements 2a of the base cooperate reversibly with elements of complementary shape 92 secured to a plate 94. The underside of this plate is shown in Figure 9. The plate 94 comprises an orifice 96 in the form of a keyhole allowing the device to be hung on a hook or the like, and an internal cavity 98 (also visible in Figure 8) having openings 98a, 98b, for example for the passage of a strap not shown. The elements 96, 98, 98a, 98b form fixing members within the meaning of the invention. The plate 94 forms, with the fixing members, fixing means 90 within the meaning of the invention. Other types of fixing members can be secured to the plate (suction cup, etc.). These fixing members could also be directly fixed reversibly to the fixing elements 2a of the base.

[0141]

[0132] The aid device described with reference to Figures 1-5 could comprise fixing means of the type described with reference to Figures 7-9. In addition, the spacer 50 present in the embodiment of Figures 1-5 could be replaced by a printed circuit board of the type described with reference to Figures 7 and 8, the electrical contact with the edge 32 then being made via the ends of this edge. One or more springs 82 or fingers 84 can then be provided to connect the plate to the printed circuit board.

[0142]

[0133] In the embodiments of Figures 7 and 8, one or more springs 82 or fingers 84 may be provided to connect the plate to the printed circuit board.

[0143]

[0134] Finally, the male-female fixing elements described with reference to Figure 8 and 9 could be reversed, the base comprising male elements. Any type of male-female elements usually used to reversibly assemble two parts can be used.

[0144]

[0135] The training aid device according to the invention, used alone or in association with other devices, thus makes it possible to call upon different senses of the user (hearing, touch, sight) and to stimulate the user's reflexes, in particular when it is equipped with both light sources and sound devices.

Claims

Claims

1. Physical training aid device (1) comprising: - a rigid housing (10) made of electrically insulating material defining a housing (11), the housing (10) comprising a dome-shaped cover (12) and a base (14) secured to the cover (12), - a plate (20) made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material resting on the dome-shaped cover (12) and matching the shape thereof, said plate (20) being provided with a mesh of pins (22) on its face (21) opposite the housing, - a shell (30) made of electrically conductive elastic polymer material having a dome shape, located above the plate (20) and covering it entirely, a free space being provided between the shell (30) and the plate (20), a free edge (32) of the shell being secured to the rigid housing, the plate (20) and the shell (30) defining a pressure sensor (100) capable of generating a signal in response to a force exerted on the shell, - an electronic management system (40) of the pressure sensor (100) arranged inside the housing (11) and connected to the pressure sensor (100).

2. Assistance device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that an external lateral surface (14a) of the base (14) extends in the extension of the shell (30) of the sensor.

3. Assistance device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the base (14) has a first part (140) made of rigid polymer material and a second part (142) made of elastic polymer material, the second part (142) covering at least part of a lower face (2) of the first part intended to rest on a flat surface, and / or of a lateral face (140a) of the first part in the extension of the shell (30) of the sensor.

4. Aid device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the free edge (32) of the shell is pinched between the base (14) and the cover (12) of the housing (10).

5. Aid device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises fixing means (90) removably fixed to the base (12), on a lower face (2) of the base intended to rest on a surface.

6. Aid device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the plate (20) comprises one or more of the following characteristics: the pins (22) have a shape of revolution with axial symmetry, optionally chosen from a conical, truncated cone and pyramidal shape, the pins (22) are identical, the pins (22) are distributed regularly over the entire surface of the plate, the plate (20) and the cover (12) are overmolded parts.

7. Assistance device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises an electrical circuit electrically connected to the plate (20) and to the shell (30) and to the management system, and in that the electrical circuit comprises electrical connectors (80b, 80c) integrated into a printed circuit board (80), said printed circuit board being positioned between the base (14) and the cover (12) of the housing, and having at least a first electrical connector (80b) in contact with the edge (32) of the shell and at least a second electrical connector (80c) in contact with the plate (20).

8. An aid device according to claim 7, characterized in that the printed circuit board (80) has one or more of the following features: a peripheral area (80a) of the printed circuit board is clamped between the edge (32) of the shell and the base (14), and the at least one first electrical connector (80b) is located partly in this peripheral clamping area, the at least one second electrical connector (80c) is in contact with the plate (20) (i) via a metal spring (82) one end of which is in contact with the plate (20) and the other end in contact with the at least one second electrical connector (80c), or (ii) with a finger (84) integral with the plate (20) and extending from the latter to the at least one second connector (80c), the cover (12) having at least one corresponding orifice (12a) for the passage of the spring or the finger.

9. Assistance device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it further comprises a sound device (72) capable of generating a sound, connected to the management system (40) and arranged inside the housing.

10. Aid device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: - the base (14) is made of translucent or transparent polymer material, and - the assistance device (1) comprises at least one light source (70) connected to the electronic management system (40) and arranged inside the housing and / or integrated into the housing.

11. Assistance device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the management system (40) comprises an electricity supply device (41), a signal processing system (42) generated by the sensor, and optionally at least one element chosen from a remote communication system (45) with a computer, a mobile phone, a watch or a tablet; a battery charging system.

Images