Adaptive Table Tennis Training System with Sub-Regulation Balls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current training methods lack effective systems for improving visual and coordination skills, particularly for individuals in sports and tactical situations, as they do not provide realistic and adaptive training scenarios that enhance dynamic visual acuity, gaze stabilization, and reaction times.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a delivery device that projects objects along predetermined trajectories, with diameters smaller than regulation balls, allowing trainees to practice intercepting and tracking, while a controller and imaging sensors adjust parameters based on performance scores to improve accuracy and reaction times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If training systems use regulation-sized balls, then the training equipment is simpler and easier to handle, but the training effectiveness for visual acuity and coordination is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the size parameter of the training ball, using a ball smaller than regulation size (specifically less than 40mm diameter compared to standard table tennis ball size). This parameter change increases the difficulty of tracking and intercepting, thereby improving visual acuity and coordination training effectiveness without requiring complex equipment modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts training parameters including ball delivery speed, trajectory, and rotation based on the trainee's performance level. The controller modifies these parameters in real-time to optimize training effectiveness, creating an adaptive training experience that responds to the user's capabilities
2Measurement precision
If the system provides detailed scoring and feedback, then training precision is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms including scoring based on successful interceptions, real-time performance metrics, and adaptive adjustment of training parameters. The controller processes interception data and provides feedback to both the trainee and the ball delivery system, creating a closed-loop training environment that continuously improves based on measured performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual scoring and analysis with an automated optical detection system. Cameras and sensors automatically track the ball and trainee movements, with the controller computing interception success and performance metrics, eliminating the need for manual measurement and reducing operational complexity despite increased measurement precision
3Reliability
If the delivery device projects objects with smaller diameters, then visual tracking difficulty is increased improving training value, but the precision requirements for delivery increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system delivers balls with diameters less than 40mm (smaller than standard table tennis balls) to increase visual tracking difficulty and training value. This parameter change requires the delivery device to achieve higher precision in positioning and trajectory control to ensure accurate ball delivery despite the reduced size margin for error
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include projecting one or more objects along one or more pre-determined trajectories toward a target zone, with each having a diameter less than a diameter of a regulation table tennis ball, the trainee attempting to prevent the one or more objects from entering the target zone and scoring the ability of the trainee. A method can include displaying a first video to a trainee that explains setup for a delivery device, setting up the delivery device based on the first video, projecting an object along a pre-determined trajectory toward a target zone proximate the trainee, wherein the object has a diameter that is less than a diameter of a regulation table tennis ball, and scoring an ability of the trainee to interact with the object at the target zone.