Dart part and dart comprising this part

Abstract

The dart part may be the body, the tip (3), or the shaft (6). The part includes a base board (20) equipped with an accelerometer (21) and / or a. gyroscope (22), a. power source (23), and a processing unit (24). It further comprises a communication module (25) for wireless communication and / or an electronic signaling means (vibration motor (32), LED (26), sound generator (30)). The processing unit (24) is configured to receive data from the accelerometer (21) and / or gyroscope (22), to evaluate the data, and to signal the evaluated data via the electronic signaling means and / or transmit them via the communication module (25) for wireless communication. The part may include at least one touch sensor (27) for detecting touch on its surface, a magnetometer (28), or a microphone (29). The LED (26) may be arranged to be visible at the interface (5) of the rear end (4). The replaceable shaft (6) at the rear end (4) may be made of translucent material. The flights (8) on the shaft (6) may be provided with photovoltaic panels (9).

Description

[0001] Dart part and dart comprising this part

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The device relates to a throwing dart that incorporates a hardware and software solution for measuring data from each individual throw.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] A throwing dart (also referred to as a game dart) is a sporting tool used in the game of darts. A standard game involves a set of three darts. Each dart consists of a tip, a body, a shaft, and a flight. These individual parts are made from various materials such as metal, plastic, and others. The most preferred material for manufacturing the dart body is tungsten or a tungsten alloy. Due to the high density of tungsten, the dart body can be sufficiently heavy while maintaining a small size. The dart has a cylindrical or conical shape, which allows it to fly accurately and hit the target area on the board.

[0006] Darts are generally divided into two categories: "soft" and "steel". “Soft” darts are used with plastic electronic dartboards and always have a replaceable soft plastic tip. Accordingly, the dart body must be threaded on both ends to allow for screwing in the tip and the shaft. “Steel” darts are used with sisal dartboards. Their tip is hard and sharp, usually made of metal. The tip may be a fixed part of the dart body or may be equipped with threading for screwing into the dart body, similar to the “soft” variant.

[0007] The dart body is the basepart that determines the weight, shape, center of gravity, and grip style of the dart. The most common body shape is cylindrical, although various shapes and surface finishes exist.

[0008] The flight is the part of the dart attached to the rear of the shaft and serves to stabilize and influence the dart’s flight. It usually has the shape of four triangular wings and is made from a thin and flexible material, such as various types of plastics. The flight helps stabilize the dart’s rotation during flight and ensures that the dart flies straight and predictably toward the target. Flights come in various shapes and sizes. A flight is inserted into or otherwise attached to the shaft. Shafts are made from various types of lightweight plastics or metals in different diameters, lengths, and shapes. Together with the flight, the shaft significantly affects the flight characteristics and stability of the dart during its trajectory. A throwing dart is often personalized according to the player’s preferences. Each player may have different requirements regarding the weight, shape, length, and surface finish of dart bodies. Some players prefer heavier darts for better stability, while others favor lighter darts for greater control and accuracy. Overall, the throwing dart is a key element in the game and has a major influence on a player’s performance. It is a precisely balanced tool designed to help the player achieve the best possible results on the dartboard. Strength, direction, and intensity of the throw, the angle at which the dart is released, and the way it is released - i.e., the quality of the grip of the dart body in the player's fingers - all play an important role during gameplay. Every' player's goal is to make their throws correct, as similar to one another as possible, and consistent.

[0009] To achieve this, players must train their throws systematically and over the long term. In particular, they need to attain complete repeatability in their throws. However, achieving this is problematic without knowing the parameters of each executed throw'. Most notably, players lack feedback on whether their throw was technically correct. Among the parameters that influence the throwing technique are especially the grip of the dart, the trajectory of the throwing hand, the speed of hand movement with the dart before release, the moment and manner of dart release, and the angle at which the dart is released.

[0010] Essence of the Invention

[0011] The drawbacks described above are eliminated by a throwing dart comprising a part according to the present invention. This part may be the body, tip, or shaft of the dart. The dart body is elongated in shape and has a longitudinal axis. An elongated shape means that the longitudinal axis is significantly (at least 2x) longer than the cross-section (typically the diameter) of the body. The longitudinal axis coincides with the axis of the expected flight path of the dart. The body has a front end (relative to the expected flight direction) equipped with either a fixed tip or an interface for attaching a replaceable tip. In the state of the art, the interface is typically an internal thread intended for a matching external thread on the tip. Other designs may also be considered, such as a bayonet connection (or part thereof), a radial through-hole for placing a transverse connecting pin that runs through the body and the tip, etc, The body also includes a rear end (relative to the flight direction) equipped with an interface for attaching a shaft. The design of the rear-end interface may be analogous to that of the front end.

[0012] A key aspect is that the body includes an internal cavity. The term "cavity” refers to a space within the material of the body, regardless of whether it contains an air pocket or is entirely filled with material(s) different from that of the body. Inside the cavity, a base board is housed. The base board is typically a printed circuit board (PCB). It serves both to functionally interconnect and usually to mechanically mount the various electronic components described below'.

[0013] If the relevant part is the tip, it is either fixedly attached to the body or attachable to the front end of the body via the interface. The tip contains a base board. If the relevant part is the shaft, it is attachable to the rear end of the body via the interface. The shaft is equipped with a set of flights or is adapted for the attachment of a set of flights. The flights may particularly be a monolithic part of the shaft, or the shaft may include attachment points (typically slots) for inserting the flights, as is known from prior art. The shaft contains a base board.

[0014] A computing unit is also housed within the cavity of the body, tip, or shaft and connected to the base board, into which additional electronic components are integrated. If these components are located in the tip or shaft, they may be housed within an internal cavity in that part. Since the tip and shaft, unlike the body, may be made of plastic, it is also possible to consider implementations where the electronic components are embedded directly into the material of the respective part.

[0015] Among these additional electronic components - also housed within the cavity of the body, tip, or shaft - are an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope connected to the computing unit. For the purposes of the invention, it is sufficient to use one or the other, or a combination of both. If both are included, they may be implemented as separate components or as a single component performing the functions of both the accelerometer and the gyroscope. The purpose of these components is to measure, in real time and in three axes (3D), acceleration / deceleration during a dart throw, including fluttering in flight, sideways flight, and potentially other motion variables (e.g., axial rotation, rotation intensity and speed, lateral deviation and intensity of hand movement during the dart’s release phase, or the dart's angle relative to the horizontal plane).

[0016] The term "part" (body, tip, or shaft), as used in this invention, refers specifically to a smart part containing at least the electronic components described above. In a preferred embodiment, the part includes at least one touch sensor adapted for detecting finger contact on the surface of the part. Depending on its construction type, the touch sensor may be arranged on the surface of the part (and thus be externally visible). In an alternative embodiment, the touch sensor may be placed beneath the surface and adapted to detect the presence of a finger on the surface. The touch sensor is connected to the computing unit such that the unit can receive data recorded by the sensor. Detection of touch between the player’s fingers and the dart body may be implemented via a special circuit that detects changes in capacitance between the surface of the dart body and a detection surface positioned along the inner circumference of the body’s cavity. Preferably, this detection surface is divided into three sectors (i.e., three touch sensors), enabling detection of a correct grip, i.e., the presence of individual fingers in the correct locations on the dart body. In this way, players can immediately determine whether they are holding the dart correctly even before making the throw, which is a key factor in achieving the correct flight path, minimizing deflection upon release, and thus achieving consistent and accurate throws. Furthermore, the touch sensors can determine the exact moment when the dart loses contact with the player’s fingers and hand. This timestamp can then be used in data analysis (e.g., to evaluate whether the dart was released at an optimal moment, too late, or too early).

[0017] In another advantageous embodiment, the part may be equipped with more than one (i.e. a set of) touch sensors connected to the computing unit. The individual touch sensors from this set are arranged at various locations on the surface of the part, They are positioned circumferentially and / or axially in different positions, particularly for the purpose of detecting the position of one or more fingers at different locations on the surface of the part. Knowledge of the finger or fingers’ position on the part’s surface is useful for a more precise determination of throwing technique parameters. By analyzing the sequence and timing in which the fingers lost contact with the individual sensors, it becomes possible to better detect incorrect or inconsistent dart releases. The computing unit may be configured to evaluate the touch data either individually for each sensor or collectively, treating all sensors as a single unit.

[0018] The touch sensor may be selected from a group comprising a capacitive sensor, a touch film, a segmented resistive sensor, and an optical sensor. A capacitive touch sensor detects the presence of fingers on the dart’s surface using a conductive copper surface located beneath a non-conductive layer or on the surface itself. It can be divided into multiple zones (e.g. for 2 -5 fingers), allowing the monitoring of contact points in real time. It detects changes in capacitance between the conductive element (e.g. copper strip or ring) and the skin of the finger based on proximity or contact, It serves to detect the grip - when, where, and how many fingers are holding the dart - and can activate other sensors (e.g. EMG - Electromyography, BIA - Bioimpedance Analysis) or confirm a correct grip. It may also be used for turning the device on / off or switching modes. It can be placed on the tip, body, or shaft of the dart. On the body, it may be located beneath a grip layer made of non-conductive material. The touch zones can be arranged according to the anatomy of the grip (thumb, index finger, middle finger, or other fingers). The sensor consists of conductive areas (e.g. thin copper layers) connected to a capacitive sensing circuit, which is in turn connected to the base board to evaluate changes in capacitance. Multiple zones can be operated using a multiplexer. The outputs are used to activate functions (e.g. sound, vibration, or light signals) and to collect data for analyzing throw style, consistency, and overall technique.

[0019] A touch film (e.g. resistive touch film or force sensing film) is integrated into the surface of the dart’s tip, body (grip), or shaft and allows for precise detection of the touch location. Thanks to its insulation, it may even be embedded into conductive materials. By embedding it into the material, the film is protected from mechanical damage. Compared to the capacitive sensor, it allows for finer touch resolution, and it detects both the presence and precise location of the linger(s), even around the circumference of the part’s body. It responds to direct contact with the finger and changes its electrical properties (e.g. resistance or capacitance) based on the touch location. It detects the presence, position, and movement of the finger, thereby recording the grip style, precise placement, and shifting of the fingers. It helps maintain a consistent grip or acts as an input for training modes, Thanks to its ability to detect the direction and length of touch, it can also be used for basic control of dart functions or the associated app via gestures such as swiping, tapping, or pressing within predefined zones. A resistive or Hex-type touch film is connected to the base board. The output signal is processed and used for feedback or mode control.

[0020] The segmented resistive sensor is based on dividing the dart part into multiple conductive segments (e.g. A, B, C), which are electrically separated by non-conductive sections. Under normal conditions, the segments are galvanically isolated. When the player grips the dart and touches more than one segment, their body forms a conductive bridge between those segments. At least two segments (e.g. A and B) must be connected via conductors to the inputs of the base board or computing unit in order to measure the resulting resistive link. The computing unit evaluates resistance values between selected segment pairs (e.g. A«->B, B«->C, or A«-»C), thereby detecting touch, grip extent, and potentially grip intensity. This sensor serves as a simple and robust solution for detecting the presence and distribution of fingers. It helps identi fy the grip style and activates additional functions (e.g. power-on, start of data recording, or mode switching). It may also serve as a trigger for additional measurements (e.g. EMG, BIA, GSR - Galvanic Skirt Response), which are activated only upon detecting a grip. Segments may be located in different areas of the dart body - typical ly front (A), middle (B), and rear (C). Each segment is mechanically and electrically mounted with insulation relative to adjacent parts. The base board with the computing unit may, for example, be located in the middle segment (B), which is connected via wires to the other segments. Each segment is connected to the computing unit or an ADC converter. Using a small supply voltage (e.g. 1.8-3.3 V), changes in resistance between segments are measured. A simple resistive divider is used, or alternatively active sensing via a multiplexer. Changes in resistance between segments indicate touch and the extent of grip.

[0021] Optical (laser) sensor detects the presence, distance or movement of fingers without the need for physical contact. The sensor emits a beam (e.g. infrared or laser) and monitors its reflection from the finger. Based on the intensity, direction or time of return of the signal, it determines the position of the finger relative to the dart’s surface. By combining multiple sensors, a detailed grip map can be created. It allows monitoring of the grip and its subtle changes without physical pressure. Suitable for technique analysis, error correction, and real-time feedback during training or competition. It can be placed in the tip, body, or shaft of the dart, typically in multiple zones. For proper operation, the light beam may be emitted and detected through a transparent dart surface (e.g. translucent plastic grip), or the dart part may be equipped with windows allowing the passage of light, The sensors are connected to the mainboard and process data in real time. The technology corresponds to solutions commonly used in touchless controllers, gaming peripherals, or wearable electronics.

[0022] The sensors that may be used in the dart can essentially be divided into three groups according to their function:

[0023] - positional touch sensors for determining the position of the fingers, especially those described in the previous paragraphs;

[0024] - parametric touch sensors for detecting parameters, especially of the player and their surroundings. These may include a bioimpedance sensor (BIA) for measuring body hydration by measuring tissue resistance using a weak electric current, a GSR / EDA sensor for measuring player stress through changes in skin conductivity, a pulse oximeter for measuring the player’s heart rate and oxygen saturation in the blood, a thermal camera (IR sensor) for contactless measurement of hand temperature and fatigue assessment, an EMG sensor for measuring muscle activity via electrical impulses, a humidity sensor for detecting air moisture or the presence of moisture (sweat) on the dart’s surface, which may affect the throw, or a gesture touch sensor for recognizing finger movements and gestures - enabling contactless sensing of hand or finger gestures near the dart. The sensor generates an electric field and monitors its disturbance due to hand movement. Thanks to the spatial arrangement of electrodes, it determines the position and direction of movement in real time; - other sensors not directly related to touch. These may include an impact sensor (dart hit), an inclinometer for measuring the angle of the dart relative to the horizon, a barometric sensor (altimeter) to adjust flight calculations according to conditions (e.g. different city, altitude), a UWB (Ultra-wideband) chip for precise spatial measurement - the chip emits pulses received by several antennas in the smart dartboard or its surroundings. Based on time differences, the position of the dart is calculated to ensure accurate detection of the dart’s impact into the board, reconstruction of the flight path, hit verification, and online game transmission with metrics. The inclinometer, possibly in cooperation with the accelerometer and / or gyroscope, may be used to detect the change in position of the dart after impact into a “soft” board, where the dart aligns into a horizontal position upon sticking (the tip slides into a horizontal channel in the board). This change between the position of the dart before and after hitting the board serves to refine the impact angle and flight trajectory. By combining data from the inclinometer, accelerometer, and / or gyroscope, it is also possible to evaluate the bounce of an incoming dart off' an already embedded dart. The collected data are useful for detecting and calculating changes in the dart’s flight trajectory. Based on the acceleration, angle of rebound, and original flight path, the expected trajectory and point of impact are reconstructed. The obtained data allow7for the evaluation of throw7technique consistency, prediction of bounce risks, optimization of player stance, target zone selection, and recommendations for equipment adjustments including tip length, dart body diameter, and ballistics.

[0025] At least one additional sensor from the three groups mentioned above may be included in another dart part. That is, if the described electronics are, for example, in the body, an additional (supplementary) sensor may be in the tip and / or shaft. These supplementary sensors are usefol for evaluating the grip outside the part containing the electronics (e.g. the body) or for measuring a specific value. The individual dart parts containing sensors are then provided at the interface with a connector or contacts for transferring the measured information (as a data stream or electric energy).

[0026] The part further comprises a communication module for wireless communication and / or an electronic signaling means. These components are connected to the processing unit and serve the purpose of communicating information from the processing unit to the surrounding environment of the dart, particularly to its user (the player). The wireless communication module may especially be Bluetooth Low-7Energy (BLE), which enables, via its antenna, the transmission of measured data from the dart to a mobile device or computer. Thanks to the Bluetooth Mesh interface, it is possible to connect multiple components, i.e., multiple darts, simultaneously to a single device. NFC or WiFi communication modules are also possible alternatives. It is desirable that the wireless communication module - or at least its antenna - be positioned as close to the surface of the component as possible. The antenna can be located at the edge of the component at its interface with another part, within a thinned layer of the material, or in a transparent window (where the material is removed and optionally replaced by another material). This arrangement applies especially to metallic components, typically the body; this modification helps reduce signal attenuation.

[0027] The electronic signaling means is capable of directly signaling information from the dart to its surroundings, particularly to its user (the player), without the need to connect to other electronic devices. This may include tactile signaling (such as a vibration motor), optical signaling (such as an LED), or auditory signaling (such as a sound generator like a speaker or piezo buzzer).

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, a magnetometer connected to the processing unit may also be housed in the component. The magnetometer is used to determine the azimuth (directional orientation) of the dart in geographic coordinates before or during the throw7. Given the knowledge of the target's location and the player's position during the dart throw', the orientation of the dart relative to the target prior to the throw can be signaled by the electronic signaling means through visual, haptic or auditory feedback, and a deviation of the hand during the throwing motion while holding the dart can be detected, Such a dart is particularly useful for visually impaired players or can serve as an engaging tool for gameplay even for sighted players.

[0029] The component also includes a power source. This power source is connected to the electronic components within the dart component and ensures their operation. The preferred power source is an ultracapacitor (also known as a supercapacitor or electric double-layer capacitor). This device is very7small, has a high capacity, and most importantly, allows for extremely fast charging. With the use of ultracapacitors, the charging time to full capacity is estimated to be within tens of seconds. Thanks to this technology, the dart is capable of operating for several hours without the need for recharging, which, together with rapid charging, is a significant advantage for players during long training legs, games, sets, matches, or tournaments. Other battery types such as Li-Pol, Li-Ion, and similar may also be considered. Charging is preferably wireless (inductive) or via magnetic charging pins.

[0030] The processing unit is connected to the aforementioned electronic components. It is configured (particularly through its software) to receive data from the accelerometer and / or gyroscope and to evaluate such data. The processing unit is further configured to signal the evaluated data using the electronic signaling means and / or to transmit them via the wireless communication module. The processing unit may be equipped with a memory7module for local data storage, al lowing for subsequent synchronization with a mobile application after gameplay without the need for constant connection.

[0031] The cross-section of the internal cavity of the body may have a non-rotational shape. This means that the transverse dimension of the cavity in one direction is different from the transverse dimension of the same cavity area in another direction. To ensure good flight characteristics of the dart, it is desirable for the body mass to be as high as possible while maintaining compact dimensions and a small cross-sectional size (diameter) of the body. Maintaining the usual body dimensions familiar to players requires avoiding excessive hollowing of the body by the cavity. The above-described electronics in the dart body can advantageously be arranged in a relatively flat structure thanks to the use of a printed circuit board, which can be inserted into a cavity with a slotted cross-section (typically rectangular or oval). In order to maintain good flight characteristics of the dart, it is therefore advantageous not to remove material from the inside of the body that was not absolutely necessary for the placement of the electronics. The internal cavity with a non-rotational cross-section thus ensures a favorable weight of the dart body, which is important for the good flight characteristics of the dart. Such a cavity can be easily produced, for example, by wire cutting, CNC 3D machining, or the entire body can be manufactured using 3D printing. Manufacturing an internal non-rotational cavity may cause slight undesired displacement of the body's ro tational center of gravity, which could reduce the dart’s ability to spin along its axis during flight. This displacement can be effectively corrected by designing the dart body’s surface in an elliptical or other non-rotational shape, thereby rebalancing the dart. If the cavity is to have a rotational shape, it is best created by drilling.

[0032] The internal cavity may be axially open to the interface at the front end and / or to the interface at the rear end. In other words, the cavity may be accessible from the respective interface before assembly and after disassembly of the tip or shaft, particularly for the purpose of inserting or servicing the electronics. The internal cavity may be provided with at least one radially oriented opening, which serves primarily to route parts of the electronic components or their signals out of the internal cavity.

[0033] In a specific embodiment, the internal cavity is axially open to the interface at the front and / or rear end. At the same time, the electronic signaling means is an LED. The LED is preferably multicolored (RGB). The LED is arranged in such a way that it is optically visible at the interface of the front and / or rear end. Specifically, the LED may be positioned at the edge of the internal cavity near the interface of the front and / or rear end and oriented to emit light outward from the front and / or rear end, This arrangement is particularly useful for a throwing dart equipped with a tip and a replaceable shaft with flights at the interface of the rear end of the body, whereby the tip and / or shaft is made of a translucent material. The LED is configured to signal information from the processing unit to the surroundings of the dart, in particular to its user (the player). The LED in the tip may be particularly useful for signaling prior to throwing. After the throw, the LED of the dart embedded in the board with its shaft facing backward may signal the quality of the throw' or other information to the player.

[0034] The cavity of the body may be fitted with at least one w'eight, which serves to balance the dart and its center of gravity. If the weight is located between the LED and the interface of the rear end of the body, the w'eight is provided with at least one through-hole to allow7the passage of light from the LED to the interface of the rear end of the body. A combination of multiple weights made of materials with different densities may be considered, possibly supplemented with lightweight inserts to fix the weight in the given cavity position. It is advantageous if the w'eight and the insert have identical dimensions to allow flexible usage.

[0035] In another embodiment of the body, the internal cavity may be closed. In this case, the body consists of at least two joined parts, where the dividing plane between the connected parts passes through the internal cavity . Before joining the parts, electronics can be inserted into the internal cavity, and the parts can be joined either detachably or permanently (e.g., by threaded connection, adhesive or form-fit mechanical connection, magnetic connection, etc.).

[0036] The internal cavity maybe filled with a potting compound after the electronic components have been inserted. This selves primarily to securely fix the electronic components and prevent their damage during dart impacts. The potting compound may be either opaque or translucent, especially in connection with the LED and the translucent shaft and / or tip. The potting compound should ideally have a density as close as possible to the density of the dart body material (typically tungsten). If the surface of the printed circuit board, along with the electronic components, is coated with an insulating layer, the potting compound may be a mixture of metallic powder and polymer. The dart body can thereby be additionally balanced with regard to its center of gravity (e.g., containing more metal in the polymer at the center of gravity and less metal as it moves away from the center of gravity).

[0037] In one specific embodiment, the aforementioned component of the throwing dart may be the body or the tip, which is connected to the body. The shaft is attached to the body via an interface, The shaft is equipped with a set of flights or is adapted to accommodate such a set. The interface includes electrical contacts that are galvanically connected to the flight attachment point and to the power source located in the body or tip. In an advantageous embodiment, the shaft may further contain an additional power source. If such a source is used, the electrical contacts in the interface are galvanically connected to this additional power source. At least one flight, if attached, is equipped with at least one photovoltaic panel that is galvanically connected to the flight attachment point on the shaft.

[0038] In another specific embodiment, the aforementioned component of the throwing dart may be the shaft, equipped with a set of flights or adapted for the attachment of such a set. The flight attachment point on the shaft is galvanically connected to the power source. Furthermore, the attachment point may also be galvanically connected to the electrical contacts at the interface for connection with the body. At least one flight, if attached, is equipped with at least one photovoltaic panel that is galvanically connected to the flight attachment point on the shaft.

[0039] If the aforementi oned component of the throwing dart is the shaft, at least one of the electronic components it contains may extend into the part of the shaft that has an external thread on its surface. This is advantageous for spatial reasons or for balancing the dart.

[0040] Turning on, turning off, and controlling the functions of the dart can be performed via a touch sensor or by moving the dart, with such motion detected by the accelerometer and / or gyroscope, by disconnecting the dart from a power charging contact, and so on. Dart control can also be managed from wirelessly connected smart electronics, particularly from smartwatches, smartphones, smart rings, and similar devices. Alternatively, the component may be equipped with electronics for voice control. This means that the component is equipped with an electronic element for sound detection (especially a microphone), which is connected to the processing unit, and the processing unit is adapted to receive and evaluate data from this element. For example, before each throw, the player may use this sound detection element to record a short voice message in which they state the intended target and / or the throwing style they wish to use. This recording may be time-stamped and stored for later comparison with the actual result (score) and the actual course of the throw, or for further evaluation.

[0041] The described dart component, or the dart equipped with this component, represents a revolutionary innovation in the field of sports accessories, transforming the traditional throwing dart into an advanced tool for monitoring and optimizing player performance. This innovation lies in the integration of specialized electronics into the dart component, enabling data collection and analysis regarding the dart's movement and the throwing hand during the game. One of the primary functions is the precise measurement of the dart’s acceleration and trajectory. The embedded electronics allow7for the tracking of every dart movement with high accuracy and provide crucial insights for analyzing the throwing technique. Players can monitor their throws in real time, which can be highly valuable for improving their performance. When the dart is connected to a mobile application, smartwatch app, smart ring, or a web app specifically designed for this dart, players gain access to a variety of features and statistics, including data visualization, progress tracking over time, individual goal setting, and recommended training methods for improvement. The application may assist in selecting suitable sizes or shapes of flights and shafts, as well as optimal dart balance, based on the best- achieved consistency in throw dynamics and resulting scores. The app can track time intervals between individual throws and / or legs and can determine the ideal pace for the player. It may also monitor long-term changes in pacing and similar parameters.

[0042] Another potential function of the described dart component is real-time player alert through dart vibrations (transmitted to the player’s fingers and hand) or by lighting up the LED and translucent shaft. Both of these functionalities can notify the player of an improper grip or provide additional information sent from the app as real-time feedback. The light signaling function through illumination of the shaft and / or tip can also be used upon impact of the dart with the board. For example, green light may indicate that the throw was within certain limits and executed correctly; red may indicate that the throw was incorrect; blue may signal, for instance, that the player should consult the mobile app for further recommendations, recalibrate the dart using new reference throws, and so on. Additional RGB colors and different lighting durations (flashing) can be used in a similar way to support various dart functions and alerts. The light signal may also serve as an indi cator of an incorrect grip, just like vibrati on signaling, or be used during charging, to show battery capacity, or as a cue for a task (throw variation) recommended by the app based on previous analysis.

[0043] The gyroscope can also be used to determine the exact center of gravity and balance of the dart simply by placing it, for example, on a finger near the center of gravity and analyzing the orientation of the dart’s longitudinal axis. Different players may prefer darts with varying center-of-gravity positions. Knowing the exact center of gravity is one of the dart's characteristics that can be used during gameplay. With this knowledge, the dart can be rebalanced according to the preferences of the individual player.

[0044] The dart (or the entire game set, i.e,, a set of at least 3 darts) is preferably stored in a case for storage, transport, and charging, which serves as a docking station for fast charging between games. This case is equipped with a high-capacity battery and, for instance, aUSB-C connector for convenient charging, as well as light indicators showing the charging status and progress through LEDs placed inside the box or by lighting up the dart’s shaft. The case can be manufactured using 3D printing, plastic injection molding, pressing, their combination, or other methods. It may also include a vibration motor, a speaker for various signals, and contactless (inductive) charging of the box itself. The electronics within the dart component should preferably be designed to be energy-efficient. This is achieved through advanced power level management of the electronics. The control circuit disconnects unused power levels of peripheral circuits when not needed, thereby reducing power consumption and extending the dart's battery life. Additionally, the circuit functions as a linear regulator for powering the processing unit and peripherals. It also facilitates charging voltage protection and fast charging of ultracapacitors. Moreover, the circuit enables the use of machine learning based on the data collected from the sensors. The circuit's ultra-low power consumption is enabled by its ability to wake up the remaining electronics in the dart when it is grasped by the user. Thanks to this function, there is no longer a need for a physical button to turn the dart electronics on or off.

[0045] Another advantageous feature is quick score entry using smartwatches, smartphones, tablets, smart rings, and other wearable smart devices. Scoring can be performed via gestures, voice commands, touch input on the screen of the wearable smart device, and / or gestures made with the dart itself using its built-in motion sensors, voice input directly into the dart via its built-in microphone, or any combination of these methods. With the scoring function (recording point values of each dart throw' at the board), the application can compare the quality of the throw with its outcome, analyze the data, create statistics, calculate the checkout table during gameplay, or generate finishing accuracy statistics. Thanks to player identification based on play style, face ID, fingerprint, or other biometric data using a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, or other wearable devices or combinations thereof, the svstem is highly suitable for online competitions, player rankings, and deeper gamification of the entire game. The player may again record their intended target and / or throw style using gestures, voice input via wearable devices, and / or gestures and / or voice input directly into the dart - all prior to the throw' itself. Through progress tracking over time, players can become more aware of their development and identify areas for improvement. The application may offer tips and recommendations to help players achieve their goals more effectively and quickly using artificial intelligence (Al) for data analysis, personalized training plans, progress monitoring, dart personalization, virtual coaching support from professional players or mentors, and more.

[0046] The system of the described dart and connected wearable smart electronics may also incorporate heart rate (stress) measurement via smartwatches, smart rings, etc. Based on this, the system can recommend changes in the pace of play, calming breathing exercises, and so on.

[0047] It can thus be stated that the described dart can be used as part of a system that includes at least one device selected from the group comprising a smart dartboard, docking station, and wearable smart electronics. Examples of wearable smart electronics include, in particular, a smart ring, smartwatch, fitness band, smart glasses, smart clothing, or smart footwear. When the dart is wirelessly connected to at least one of these devices, one-way or two-way data exchange can occur, which can be used for game evaluation and / or assessment of the player’s condition.

[0048] A wearable device in the form of a ring is configured for contactless data exchange with the dart component via a wireless communication interface, particularly NFC, Bluetooth, or another RF protocol. It serves to identify and authenticate the player, with the identification data being sent to the dart, docking station, or application for the purpose of launching game or tournament modes, transferring data, and verifying player identity during online competitions.

[0049] The smart ring is also designed to collect biometric data from the player, including heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), body temperature, or other physiological parameters, which are processed in conjunction with data from the dart. Furthermore, it may serve to control the dart or the associated application through gestures, changes in finger position, or touch interaction. The smart ring is preferably worn on the hand that performs the throw -• it can track the trajectory of hand movement after the dart is released and thus evaluate the proper follow- through of the motion. The data can also be used to assess the correlation between the trajectory of the hand movement and the flight path of the dart.

[0050] The docking station is used for charging, storage, synchronization, and communication between the darts and other devices. It is equipped with its own power source, -which can be recharged via USB, wireless charging, or alternatively by photovoltaic panels placed on the dart flights, which transfer energy to the built-in battery while stored in the station. The station also functions as a sensor and communication hub that can collect and preprocess data from darts or other peripheral devices,

[0051] The smart dartboard may be adapted for identifying individual darts using, for example, NFC (Near Field Communication) / RFID (Radio -Frequency Identification) and other sensors described in this application , It can determine the point of impact, measure impact force, track the flight trajectory, and directly interface with individual darts, the docking station, the application, or a cloud system. This enables automatic score recording, enhances throw analysis, and allows for real-time player identification.

[0052] Smartwatches or fitness bands serve as extended control devices while also providing supplementary biometric data. They can display ongoing statistics, deliver feedback, or be used to control the functions of the dart or the application during gameplay. Smart glasses can display certain game-related data. Smart clothing or smart footwear can monitor the player’s physiological parameters or evaluate the suitability of their posture and movements.

[0053] The entire system can be designed to support mutual interaction between multiple darts, players, and devices during team games. It enables advanced performance analysis and player authentication in online competitions and tournament modes, including secure data transmission and identity verification based on biometric data or device pairing.

[0054] The integration of Artificial Intelligence (Al) into dart throw analysis can further significantly enhance the depth and usefulness of the feedback provided to players. Al can be employed in this context for advanced analysis and training through pattern recognition, such as machine learning algorithms. Supervised learning algorithms, such as classification and regression, can be used to identify patterns in the data - for example, to categorize throws based on their outcomes and identify common characteristics of each category. Feature extraction and analysis - such as acceleration, deceleration, velocity, angle, and rotation - can help identify key factors influencing the outcome of a throw . Techniques such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) can reduce data dimensionality and highlight the most influential features.

[0055] Furthermore, Al can be applied for causal analysis using decision trees and random forests. These algorithms can help identify decision rules that lead to specific outcomes. By analyzing the paths in the trees that lead to errors, conditions most closely associated with those errors can be identified. In addition, causal inference, advanced statistical techniques, and Al models can help derive causality rather than mere correlations. Understanding causal relationships enables identification of the factors most likely to cause inconsistent throws.

[0056] Another potential extension is the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) through a virtual reality headset into the training system. This addition can significantly improve the user experience and provide real-time immersive feedback, Such a system could offer throw' visualizations. The headset can display a trajectory line showing the path the dart should follow toward the intended target, allowing players to compare their actual throw' to this optimal path. The system can also highlight the intended target area on the dartboard in real time, helping players focus on accurate aiming. After each throw, instant visual feedback can be displayed in the headset, showing the difference between the intended and actual hit along with suggestions for adjustments. During preparation for a throw, the player may see an overlay of optimal throwing technique or posture / hand adjustments based on their previous performance. The headset can display progress metrics showing improvement over time or highlighting areas that still need w?ork. Implementing a step-by-step guide or tutorial wdthin the AR environment can help players understand and apply the feedback they receive. Players can engage in virtual scenarios that simulate different game situations or pressure conditions to refine their skills and resilience. The system can set specific challenges or drills to help players address identified weaknesses. It enables players to connect, compete, or share results with others in a virtual space, adding a motivational element to the training experience.

[0057] By incorporating AR into the training system, players receive a highly interactive and engaging experience with instant, actionable feedback and a rich, immersive environment for practicing and improving their game.

[0058] Everything has been designed to preserve the dimensions and weight of a traditional game dart, ensuring that the gameplay remains unaltered. These properties are key to maintaining authenticity, allowing players to have the exact same feel and control over the darts as when using standard ones.

[0059] Overall, it can be said that the described dart introduces a new level of interactivity and opportunities for performance enhancement to dart players. By combining advanced electronics with a traditional sports tool, it is possible to achieve more precise and consistent throws, which can lead to better results and a more enjoyable gaming experience.

[0060] Explanation of the Drawings

[0061] An exemplary embodiment of the proposed solution is described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0062] Fig. 1 - is a schematic longitudinal section of a dart with a body according to the invention;

[0063] Fig. 2 - is a schematic axonometric view' of the dart body according to the invention;

[0064] Fig. 3 - is a schematic overall axonometric view of a dart with the body according to Fig. 2;

[0065] Fig. 4 - is a schemati c longitudinal section of a dart wi th a body according to the inventi on;

[0066] Fig. 5 - is a schematic axonometric view of a storage, transport, and charging box with 3 darts;

[0067] Fig. 6 - is a schematic illustration of a throw with a dart according to the invention;

[0068] Fig. 7 - is a schematic illustration of a throw with a dart according to the invention - overall view;

[0069] Fig. 8 --- is a schematic illustration of a dart in the target after the throw, where the throw quality or other information is indicated to the player using an LED and a translucent shaft, directed backward;

[0070] Fig. 9 - is a schematic illustration of a dart in the player’s hand before the throw', where the correctness of the dart body grip is indicated in real time using touch sensors and a vibration motor;

[0071] Fig. 10 - is a schematic illustration of the player issuing voice commands and / or notes via a smartwatch wirelessly connected to the dart according to the invention;

[0072] Fig. 11 - is a schematic illustration of communication with the dart using a smartwatch wirelessly connected to the dart according to the invention;

[0073] Fig. 12 - is a schematic illustration of a throw with a dart according to the invention in a virtual or augmented reality mode;

[0074] Fig. 13 - is a possible electrical connection of electronic components inside the internal cavity of the dart body;

[0075] Fig. 14 - is a shaft equipped with electronic components in a version without photovoltaic panels;

[0076] Fig. 15 - is a shaft equipped with electronic components in a version with photovoltaic panels; Fig. 16 - is a shaft equipped with electronic components, removable flights with photovoltaic panels, and electrical contacts at the interface for connection to the body;

[0077] Fig. 17 --- is a shaft equipped with electronic components, fixed (monolithic) flights with photovoltaic panels, and electrical contacts at the interface for connection to the body;

[0078] Fig. 18 - is a shaft connectable to a body equipped with electronic components - the shaft is equipped with an auxiliary pow'er source and electrical contacts at the interface;

[0079] Fig. 19 --- is a body equipped with electronic components and weights with an opening for the passage of light from the LED to the rear-end interface;

[0080] Fig. 20 - is a body divided into 3 electrically isolated segments forming a segmental resistive sensor;

[0081] Fig. 21 - is a game dart with a body equipped with electronic components and additional touch sensors in the tip and shaft.

[0082] Exemplary Embodiment of the Invention

[0083] Example 1

[0084] An exemplary embodiment of the dart body has an elongated shape and is made of tungsten. The body has a rotational external shape symmetrical about the longitudinal axis O, a front end 1 provided with an interface 2 for attaching a replaceable tip 3, and a rear end 4 provided with an interface 5 for attaching a shaft 6. Both interfaces 2 and 4 are internal threads.

[0085] The body is provided with an internal cavity 7 that contains a base board 20. In this example, the internal cavity 7 has a rotational shape (circular cross-section) and is axially open into the interface 2 at the front end 1 and into the interface 5 at the rear end 4. The base board 20 is equipped with an accelerometer 21 and a gyroscope 22 arranged in a single electronic component. The base board 20 is further fitted with a power source 23 and a processing unit 24. The power source 23, in the form of ultracapacitors, is connected to magnetic charging pins 31 through the processing unit 24. The base board 20 is further equipped with a wireless communication module 25, which is integrated within a single electronic component along with the processing unit 24. The base board 20 is also fitted with a set of electronic signaling devices connected to the processing unit 24. In this case, the used electronic signaling devices include a vibration motor 32, an LED 26, and a sound generator 30 in the form of a piezoelectric buzzer.

[0086] The processing unit 24 is configured by its software to receive data from the accelerometer 21 and the gyroscope 22, evaluate this data, and to signal the evaluated data through the electronic signaling devices and to transmit it via the wireless communication module 25.

[0087] The dart body further includes a set of touch sensors 27 connected to the processing unit 24. The touch sensors 27 are configured to detect contact on the body surface. The individual touch sensors 27 are arranged in different places on the surface of the body. The processing unit 24 is configured to receive data from the touch sensors 27 and to evaluate it. Furthermore, the processing unit 24 is configured to signal the evaluated data using the electronic signaling devices and to transmit it via the wireless communication module 25.

[0088] The dart body also contains, in the internal cavity 7, a magnetometer 28 connected to the processing unit 24. The processing unit 24 is configured to receive data from the magnetometer 28. Furthermore, the processing unit 24 is configured to evaluate this data and to signal the evaluated data using the electronic signaling devices and to transmit it via the wireless communication module 25. The LED 26, as one of the used electronic signaling devices, is arranged to be optically visible through the interface 5 at the rear end 4. Also arranged in the cavity 7 is an electronic sound capturing component, which is a microphone 29. The microphone 29 is connected to the processing unit 24, which is configured to receive and evaluate data from the microphone 29. The microphone 29 extends from the internal cavity 7 into a radially oriented opening that exits on the outer surface of the dart body. Thanks to this, the microphone 29 can reliably capture sound from the surroundings of the dart.

[0089] All electronic components on the base board 20 are connected as is standard in electrical engineering. That is, each electronic component is connected to the power source 23 and to the processing unit 24, thus forming a functional unit in which each electronic component is capable of performing the function determined by its construction or embedded software (the electronic components are "operationally connected"). The described body is a part of the dart. This means that the body is fitted at the interface 2 of the front end 1 with a replaceable tip 3. At the interface 5 of the rear end 4, the body is fitted with a replaceable shaft 6 with a flight. Both the replaceable tip 3 and the shaft 6 are equipped with external threads. The shaft 6 is made of a translucent material. As a result, the light signal from the LED is visible externally through the shaft 6.

[0090] Example 2

[0091] In this example, the dart component is the shaft 6. The shaft 6 is attachable to the rear end 4 of the body via interface 5. The shaft 6 is equipped with a set of four flights 8 and contains a base board 20. The base board 20 is equipped with an accelerometer 21 and a gyroscope 22, a power source 23, and a processing unit 24. The power source 23, in the form of ultracapacitors, is connected to magnetic charging pins 31 via the processing unit 24. The shaft 6 further includes a communication module 25 for wireless communication, which is connected to the processing unit 24. The base board 20 is further equipped with a set of electronic signaling devices connected to the processing unit 24. The signaling devices used in this case include a vibration motor 32, an LED 26, and a sound generator 30 in the form of a piezoelectric buzzer. The processing unit 24 is adapted to receive data from the accelerometer 21 and gyroscope 22 and to evaluate it and transmit the processed data via the communication module 25 for wireless communication. The shaft 6 also includes an electronic sound sensing component, which is a microphone 29. The microphone 29 is connected to the processing unit 24, which is adapted to receive and evaluate data from the microphone 29. The microphone 29 is mounted in a radially oriented opening that exits on the outer surface of the dart body. This allows the microphone 29 to reliably capture sound from the dart’s surroundings.

[0092] The shaft 6 contains touch sensors 27, which are connected to the processing unit 24. The touch sensors 27 are configured to detect touch at various points on the surface of the shaft 6. The processing unit 24 is configured to receive data from the touch sensors 27 and to evaluate them. The processing unit 24 also ensures the transmission of the evaluated data via the communication module 25 for wireless communication.

[0093] Each of the flights 8 is equipped with a photovoltaic panel 9, which is galvanically connected to the location on the shaft 6 where the given flight 8 is attached. The attachment point of the flights 8 is galvanically connected to the power source 23 housed in the shaft 6 and to the electrical contacts at the interface 5. The shaft 6 can thus be mechanically and electrically connected to the dart body. The base board 20, along with some of the electronic components mounted on it, extends into the part of the shaft 6 that is provided with interface 5 in the form of an external thread.

[0094] List of reference signs

[0095] 1 - front end of the body

[0096] 2 - interface of the front end of the body an d the tip

[0097] 3 - tip

[0098] 4 - rear end of the body

[0099] 5 - interface of the rear end of the body and the shaft

[0100] 6 - shaft

[0101] 7 - internal cavity

[0102] 8 - flight

[0103] 9 - photovoltaic panel

[0104] 20 --- base board

[0105] 21 - accelerometer

[0106] 22 - gyroscope

[0107] 23 - power source

[0108] 23a - auxiliary power source

[0109] 24 - processing unit

[0110] 25 - communication module

[0111] 26 - LED

[0112] 27 - touch sensor

[0113] 28 - magnetometer

[0114] 29 - microphone

[0115] 30 --- sound generator

[0116] 31 - charging pins

[0117] 32 - vibration motor

[0118] 33 - weight

[0119] O --- longitudinal axis

Claims

Claims1. A dart part selected from the group comprising a longitudinally shaped body having a longitudinal axis (O), a front end (1) provided with a fixed tip (3) or an interface (2) for attaching a replaceable tip (3), and a rear end (4) provided with an interface (5) for attaching a shaft (6), the body being provided with an internal cavity (7) containing a base board (20), a tip (3) attached to the body or attachable via the interface (2) to the front end of the body and containing a base board (20), a shaft (6) attachable via the interface (5) to the rear end (4) of the body and containing a base board (20), the shaft (6) being equipped with a set of flights (8) or adapted for attaching a set of flights (8), wherein the base board (20) is equipped with an accelerometer (21) and / or a gyroscope (22), a power source (23), and a processing unit (24) and the part further comprises a communication module (25) for wireless communication and / or an electronic signaling means selected from the group comprising a haptic signaling means, in particular a vibration motor (32), a visual signaling means, in particular an LED (26), and an auditory? signaling means, in particular a sound generator (30), connected to the processing unit (24), wherein the processing unit (24) is configured to receive data from the accelerometer (21) and / or gyroscope (22) and evaluate the data and to signal the evaluated data via the electronic signaling means and / or to send the data via the communication module (25) for wireless communication. The dart part according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one touch sensor (27) connected to the processing unit (24), configured to detect touch on the surface of the part, wherein the processing unit (24) is configured to receive data from the touch sensor (27) and evaluate it and to signal the evaluated data via the electronic signaling means and / or to send the data via the communication module (25) for wireless communication.3 The dart part according to claim 2, characterized in that individual touch sensors (27) from a set of touch sensors (27) are arranged at different locations on the surface of the part., The dart part according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the part is the body whose internal cavity (7) is axially open to the interface (2) of the front end (1) and / or to the interface (5) of the rear end (4). The dart part according to claim 4, characterized in that the internal cavity (7) is axially open at least to the interface (5) of the rear end (4), and the electronic signaling means is an LED (26) arranged to make the light signal visible at the interface (5) of the rear end (4). The dart part according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the part is the body or the tip (3) connected to the body, wherein the shaft (6) is attached to the body via the interface (5), the shaft being equipped with a set of flights (8) or adapted for attaching a set of flights (8), wherein the interface (5) contains electrical contacts which are galvanically connected to the point of attachment of the flights (8) and to the power source (23), and optionally galvanically connected to an auxiliary' power source (23a) arranged in the shaft (6), wherein at least one possibly attached flight (8) is equipped with at least one photovoltaic panel (9) galvanically connected to the point of attachment of the flights (8) on the shaft (6). The dart part according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the part is a shaft (6), wherein the point of attachment of the flights (8) is galvanically connected to the power source (23) and optionally' also to the electrical contacts on the interface (5), and at least one optionally attached flight (8) is equipped with at least one photovoltaic panel (9) galvanically connected to the point of attachment of the flights (8) on the shaft (6). The dart part according to any of claims 1 to 3 or 7, characterized in that the part is a shaft (6), and at least one of the contained electronic components extends into the part of the shaft (6) which is on its surface provided with the interface (5) in the form of an external thread. The dart part according to claim 5, characterized in that the cavity between the LED (26) and the interface (5) of the rear end (4) is equipped with at least one weight (33), the weight (33)being provided with at least one through hole for the passage of light from the LED (26) to the interface (5) of the rear end (4).

10. The dart part according to any of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that the touch sensor (27) is selected from the group comprising a capacitive sensor, a touch film, a segmented resistive sensor, and an optical sensor.

11. The dart comprising a part according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the part is the body, the dart being equipped with the fixed tip (3) or the replaceable tip (3) attached via the interface (2) of the front end (1) of the body and the replaceable shaft (6) with the flight (8) at the interface (5) of the rear end (4), wherein the shaft (6) is made of a translucent material,12. An assembly comprising a dart with a part according to any of claims 1 to 10 and at least one device selected from the group comprising a smart dartboard, a docking station, wearable smart electronics such as a smart ring, smartwatch, fitness band, smart glasses, smart clothing, or smart footwear, wherein the dart is wirelessly connected to the at least one device.

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