Portable electronic step board with the ability to recognize the quality of various foot movements

Abstract

The title of the invention is 'Portable Electronic Step Board with the Ability to Recognize the Quality of Various Foot Movements.' The technical field of this invention relates to electrical and electronic engineering, utilizing a circuit with various electronic components. Overall, the application of this system, due to its smartness and ability to count different foot movements, spans universities, schools, sports centers, gyms, homes, and more. The system has been designed based on electronics and the functionality of an electronic circuit, utilizing data from pressure, force, weight applied, and the number of pressures exerted on the step board. Evaluating movement quality, distinguishing between correct and incorrect movements, and counting accurate foot movements in home or gym aerobic exercises, as well as sports competition judging, are challenging tasks requiring high precision. To address this issue, the designed system, based on data from foot impacts on the step board, provides precise output to the user, including the quality of movements, differentiation between correct and incorrect movements, the count of correct single and double foot movements, and time.

Description

Portable electronic step board with the ability to recognize the quality of various foot movements

[0001] The technical field of this invention is sports, and it is related to portable sports step boards designed for aerobic foot movements.

[0002] The portable electronic step board, equipped with the ability to differentiate correct and incorrect movements, evaluate foot movement quality, and count various foot motions, is an intelligent system designed to prevent injury to leg muscles and to precisely evaluate the quality of various aerobic foot movements. Existing systems and inventions worldwide lack any mechanism for smartening portable step boards; they are entirely mechanical and made of plastic or foam. However, the mentioned system is electronic, and no identical or similar example has been found in internet sources.

[0003] Based on searches, the following items were obtained:

[0004] Patent number 110280003, registered on 27.09.2019 in China under the title "Mechanical Device for Aerobic Movements," describes a device where different aerobic foot movements can be performed with pedals, but no smart features are included. My invention evaluates the quality of movements performed by the individual and provides output to the user, unlike the referenced invention which is only for performing exercises.

[0005] Patent number 202005006696, registered on 11.08.2005 in Germany under the title "Sports Platform," refers to a plastic portable step board with an internal compartment for storing aerobic and training accessories. It is merely a common plastic step board available in the market. However, as mentioned earlier, my invention electronically displays the correctness and quality of movements performed by the user. The goal of my invention is to evaluate the quality of movements performed using the step board.

[0006] Patent number 07922624, registered on 12.04.2011 in the United States under the title "Multi-functional Training Platform," offers flexibility and shape alteration, allowing users to perform various movements beyond regular step boards. It is a multi-functional device for different exercises. My invention, however, aims at smartly evaluating the quality of movements performed by the user with the step board.

[0007] Patent number 10 / 374496, registered on 08.09.2005 in California under the title "Aerobic Ramp," describes a step board where users can adjust the incline angle for different movements. Its purpose is incline adjustment, but my invention focuses on smartly evaluating movement quality using the step board.

[0008] Patent number 16 / 284157, registered on 01.19.2021 in the United States, is similar to foam and plastic portable step boards, aimed at using the best layers for enhanced performance. It has no similarities to my invention in terms of innovation.

[0009] Patent number 07 / 754075, registered on 11.10.1992 in the United States under the title "Step Board with Adjustable Length and Height," describes a step board where users can adjust its length and height. The goal of this patent is length and height adjustment, while my invention aims at evaluating the quality of movements performed by the user with the step board.

[0010] By searching in Persian and English sources, including platforms like Amazon and generally in Google browsers, step boards made of plastic and foam in various shapes and sizes are found. Their sole purpose is to perform different sports movements. However, my invention evaluates the correctness and quality of sports movements and the quality of motions performed on the step board electronically. No step board with similar functionality and innovation to mine has been identified.

[0011] The title of the invention is 'Portable Electronic Step Board with the Ability to Recognize the Quality of Various Foot Movements.' The technical field of this invention relates to electrical and electronic engineering, utilizing a circuit with various electronic components. Overall, the application of this system, due to its smartness and ability to count different foot movements, spans universities, schools, sports centers, gyms, homes, and more.

[0012] The system has been designed based on electronics and the functionality of an electronic circuit, utilizing data from pressure, force, weight applied, and the number of pressures exerted on the step board. Evaluating movement quality, distinguishing between correct and incorrect movements, and counting accurate foot movements in home or gym aerobic exercises, as well as sports competition judging, are challenging tasks requiring high precision.

[0013] To address this issue, the designed system, based on data from foot impacts on the step board, provides precise output to the user, including the quality of movements, differentiation between correct and incorrect movements, the count of correct single and double foot movements, and time.

[0014] Exercise is one of the essential needs of human life, and regular exercise is a fundamental condition for every individual's health. Additionally, identifying the correct methods of exercising, proper use of sports equipment, and the quality of foot movements in home or gym aerobic exercises require high precision and are crucial. Considering this issue, the designed system uses weight, pressure, and force data from foot impacts on the step board to measure the quality of movements, distinguish correct and incorrect movements based on quality, count single and double foot movements, and track time. It provides precise output data. The portable electronic step board, with the ability to differentiate between correct and incorrect movements, assess foot movement quality, and count various foot movements, is one method that ensures accurate and proper execution of aerobic foot exercises. It is cost-effective and has a very simple construction

[0015] Using a step board is an effective and diverse method for performing exercises, burning fat, and achieving fitness. It also helps increase mobility and burn calories. A key point while using the step board is performing movements correctly, maintaining quality, and consistently executing single and double foot movements. Although the very nature of this portable electronic step board signifies its functionality, it can be used across aerobic classes, homes, gyms, fitness centers, universities, schools, and more. It serves as a smart system for judging sports competitions in different settings and as a tool for identifying correct foot movements and counting them.

[0016] The portable electronic step board, equipped with electronic components, can count various single and double foot movements, measure the quality of movements performed, record activity time, and distinguish correct movements from incorrect ones. This step board includes an internal power supply system, allowing it to operate either via a direct connection to mains electricity or using its internal power supply.

[0017] Initially, the user inputs their gender, height, and weight into the system (5). Alternatively, the user's weight can also be recorded in the system (5) using the step board itself (1). Next, the user must perform the movement they plan to repeat continuously and correctly on the step board once. This allows the portable electronic step board to accurately and precisely measure and store the force, weight (2), and pressure (8) applied.

[0018] Once the user starts performing different foot movements, the step board timer automatically activates upon detecting the first foot impact and remains active until the last foot impact is detected, after which no further impacts occur. The resistive pressure sensors (8) of the system are responsible for detecting this impact. Alongside activating the timer, the smart step board begins evaluating the user's weight, force, and pressure exerted on the step board with each foot movement.

[0019] The system uses the user's weight, the initial movement registered, the force and pressure applied, and an algorithm programmed in C language within the processor (7) to establish a standard range for correct movements. Based on this standard range, it differentiates between correct and incorrect movements, informs the user of the movement quality, and displays the information (3).

[0020] The system provides users with outputs such as the total number of movements performed, the count of incorrect movements, the count of correct movements, the quality of movements, and the activity duration. Generally, the system evaluates each foot movement based on a predefined algorithm and provides precise data on user activity with the step board. The most significant data is the movement quality evaluation, informing users how many correct and incorrect movements they performed during their workout.

[0021] Preventing leg muscle injuries by recognizing correct and incorrect movements through the system.

[0022] Accurate counting of total movements, correct and incorrect, performed by the user.

[0023] Potential for commercialization and mass production of the developed device.

[0024] Cost-effectiveness and affordability of the smart portable step board.

[0025] Lightweight and portability of the smart portable step board.

[0026] Use of the system for judging competitions or evaluating sports students.

[0027] Equipped with a precise smart timer to detect the start and end of system activity.

[0028] Features an internal power supply system as well as direct connection to mains electricity.

[0029] Applicable in various locations such as sports clubs, universities, homes, and more.

[0030] System upgradeability with the ability to add various applications to it.

[0031] No similar systems found domestically or internationally.

[0032] Detecting the pressure applied to the step board based on the user's weight.

[0033] Let me know if there's anything more you'd like assistance with!

[0034] Fig.1

[0035] [FigThe portable electronic step board, shown as a general overview.Fig.2

[0036] [Fig Placement of the weight sensor for measuring the pressure and weight of foot impacts.Fig.3

[0037] [FigDisplay screen for showing the system's input and output data.Fig.4

[0038] [FigSet of circuits and electronic components inside the step board. / Fig.5

[0039] [FigKeyboard for system settings and data input.Fig.6

[0040] [FigAnalog-to-digital converter board for weight sensors.Fig.7

[0041] [FigMicrocontroller or the main processor of the system.Fig.8

[0042] [FigResistive pressure sensor (due to the unavailability of the component in schematic design software, a placeholder element has been used).Fig.9

[0043] [FigPressure measurement board (due to the unavailability of the component in schematic design software, a placeholder element has been used).Fig.10

[0044] [FigCharging control board for the step board's power supply system (the output of this board is connected to the microcontroller).Fig.11

[0045] [FigInternal battery of the system.

[0046] The portable electronic step board integrates advanced sensing technology, microcontroller processing, and a user-friendly interface to evaluate foot movements and provide meaningful data. The system is comprised of the following components:

[0047] A step board outfitted with pressure and weight sensors to capture data on applied force, pressure, and user weight during aerobic movements.

[0048] A microcontroller programmed in the C language, which processes sensor data to distinguish between correct and incorrect movements and calculate activity time.

[0049] A display screen that shows output data including the count of single and double foot movements, quality assessment of movements, and the activity duration.

[0050] A smart timer that automatically starts upon detecting the first correct movement and stops when no further movements occur.

[0051] An internal power supply system that offers flexibility for operation via mains electricity or battery.

[0052] The system can be applied across multiple environments, such as homes, gyms, schools, and universities. For judging sports competitions, the device provides accurate movement quality assessments and counts, aiding in fair evaluations. Its portable design makes it accessible for both personal and institutional use. The components work harmoniously to ensure accurate, reliable outputs, enhancing the exercise experience for users.Examples

[0053]

[0054] If properly designed and mass-produced, this invention can be utilized in the sports equipment industry

[0055]

[0056]

[0057] The system incorporates innovative concepts in electronic engineering for fitness and aerobic activities. Relevant references could include prior patents and academic studies on smart sports equipment, weight and pressure sensors, and microcontroller-based data processing systems.

[0058] Patent number 110280003, registered on 27.09.2019 in China under the title "Mechanical Device for Aerobic Movements," describes a device where different aerobic foot movements can be performed with pedals, but no smart features are included. My invention evaluates the quality of movements performed by the individual and provides output to the user, unlike the referenced invention which is only for performing exercises.

[0059] Patent number 202005006696, registered on 11.08.2005 in Germany under the title "Sports Platform," refers to a plastic portable step board with an internal compartment for storing aerobic and training accessories. It is merely a common plastic step board available in the market. However, as mentioned earlier, my invention electronically displays the correctness and quality of movements performed by the user. The goal of my invention is to evaluate the quality of movements performed using the step board.

[0060] Patent number 07922624, registered on 12.04.2011 in the United States under the title "Multi-functional Training Platform," offers flexibility and shape alteration, allowing users to perform various movements beyond regular step boards. It is a multi-functional device for different exercises. My invention, however, aims at smartly evaluating the quality of movements performed by the user with the step board.

[0061] Patent number 10 / 374496, registered on 08.09.2005 in California under the title "Aerobic Ramp," describes a step board where users can adjust the incline angle for different movements. Its purpose is incline adjustment, but my invention focuses on smartly evaluating movement quality using the step board.

[0062] Patent number 16 / 284157, registered on 01.19.2021 in the United States, is similar to foam and plastic portable step boards, aimed at using the best layers for enhanced performance. It has no similarities to my invention in terms of innovation.

[0063] Patent number 07 / 754075, registered on 11.10.1992 in the United States under the title "Step Board with Adjustable Length and Height," describes a step board where users can adjust its length and height. The goal of this patent is length and height adjustment, while my invention aims at evaluating the quality of movements performed by the user with the step board.

[0064] By searching in Persian and English sources, including platforms like Amazon and generally in Google browsers, step boards made of plastic and foam in various shapes and sizes are found. Their sole purpose is to perform different sports movements. However, my invention evaluates the correctness and quality of sports movements and the quality of motions performed on the step board electronically. No step board with similar functionality and innovation to mine has been identified.

[0065] Research articles on pressure and weight sensors in fitness applications.

[0066] Studies on microcontroller systems for movement analysis in electronic devices.

[0067] Reports on trends in smart home exercise equipment.

Claims

The claimed invention is a portable electronic step board capable of recognizing the quality of various foot movements, consisting of a set of sensors and electronic circuits inside the system. Using weight and pressure sensors, it measures the force, pressure, and weight of various foot movements. By using a predefined algorithm written in the C programming language and input data such as weight entered by the user, activity time, the count of correct and incorrect foot movements, and the quality of the performed movements are displayed as output to the user. The system includes the following components:Step boardWeight sensorDisplay screenKeyboardAnalog-to-digital converter board for weight sensorsMicrocontroller or main system processorResistive pressure sensorPressure measurement boardCurrent and voltage control board for the power supply systemBatteryAccording to Claim 1, a smart system is utilized to detect user activity time. Upon detecting the first correct pressure or impact on the step board, the timer starts counting. After detecting the last impact on the step board, the timer automatically stops and notifies the user with the output.According to Claim 2, as soon as the first impact or foot movement occurs on the step board, the weight sensor is activated alongside the timer. Based on the predefined algorithm for weight detection sensors via the microcontroller, the sensor measures the weight exerted by various foot movements.According to Claim 2, the resistive pressure sensor is activated simultaneously with the timer and the weight sensor upon detecting the first impact or foot movement on the step board. It measures the force and pressure exerted by various foot movements on the step board.According to Claims 2, 3, and 4, after data from various foot movements is captured by the sensors, the information is transmitted via the pressure measurement board and analog-to-digital converter board for weight sensors to the system's main processor, the microcontroller, for processing.According to Claims 1 and 5, upon receiving data from the weight and resistive pressure sensors, the system’s main processor processes and analyzes the data using algorithms written in the C programming language and considering the user’s weight. The processor provides output data to the user.According to Claim 6, the output data provided by the microcontroller or main processor is sent to the display screen. The user can view the output information based on Claims 1 to 6 as follows:Start and end time of foot movements performed by the user.Total number of foot movements performed by the user.Count of correct foot movements performed by the user.Count of incorrect foot movements performed by the user.Quality evaluation of movements performed by the user.

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