Cascaded Microprocessor Light Signalling for Variable Pace Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light signalling systems for athletes, such as those used in swimming, are limited in their ability to provide a variable pace reference, are not adaptable to different sports, and often require complex cabling, making them difficult to implement in various training environments and sports structures.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a cascade connection of microprocessors along the athlete path, controlling a high number of individually addressable LEDs to simulate a 'ghost athlete' with a programmable and variable speed profile, using a signalling protocol with minimal cabling and incorporating wireless communication for remote control, allowing for flexible and customizable training simulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a plurality of lamps are arranged in an elongated fixture to provide a constant pace light reference, then the swimmer can maintain a desired swimming pace, but the system is not suitable for different types of training and requires complicated cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the pool into multiple sections with lighting elements distributed throughout, each controlled independently by microprocessors. This segmentation allows different lighting patterns and pace profiles to be created for various training types without requiring complete system reconfiguration or complex cabling changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system transitions from a static constant pace reference to a dynamic variable pace reference using microprocessors that can adjust lighting timing and intensity in real-time. This enables the system to adapt to different training requirements (sprint, endurance, interval training) by dynamically changing the light reference pattern without physical reconfiguration.
2Loss of information
If a trainer provides time references and instructions at poolside, then the athlete receives pace guidance, but the athlete receives instructions only when passing by the trainer and may have difficulty hearing due to noise from other lanes
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical acoustic communication method (trainer's voice) with an optical signaling system using lights that travel alongside the athlete. This substitution eliminates the limitations of voice transmission through water and air, ensuring reliable information delivery independent of acoustic interference from other lanes.
Solution Approach 2:
The light reference acts as an intermediary between the training program and the athlete, conveying pace and timing information visually along the athlete's path. This intermediary system ensures accurate transmission of training parameters without being affected by environmental noise or the athlete's position relative to the trainer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a light reference reproduces a constant pace, then the swimmer can maintain a desired pace, but the system is not suitable for variable pace training and requires complicated cabling for different configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the temporal and intensity parameters of the light reference dynamically using microprocessor control. By varying the timing, duration, and intensity of light activation, the system can reproduce different pace profiles (constant, variable, sprint, endurance) without changing the physical system configuration, thereby achieving versatility without proportional increases in complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively generates a fluid and variable light reference that mimics a competitor's pace, including accelerations and decelerations, enhancing training by providing a dynamic comparison for athletes, while reducing cabling complexity and allowing for easy maintenance and adaptability across different sports and environments.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of lighting elements, in particular light emitting diodes
Data Source
AI summary
System for light signalling to supply a moving light reference (60) to an athlete, said system (10) including a plurality of lighting elements (20), in particular light emitting diodes, arranged along an athlete path, controlling means (11, 19) adapted to control said plurality of lighting elements (20) according to a lighting sequence adapted to generate said moving light reference (60) and to impart to said moving light reference (60) a displacement speed along said plurality of lighting elements (20) which is settable through said controlling means (11, 19). According to the invention, said system (10) further comprises a plurality of microcontrollers (23) arranged in a cascaded connection with respect to command signals (42) pertaining lighting parameters sent by said controlling means (11, 19) and arranged along said athlete path, said microcontrollers (23) being connected to respective sets of lighting elements in said plurality of lighting elements (20) to command their lighting state on the basis of said command signals (42).