Chest Protector Signaling System for Secure Pitch Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Baseball and softball coaches face challenges in effectively and privately communicating defensive strategies to players without these signals being compromised or detected by the opposing team, especially for players in the outfield.
Innovation Solution
A sports signaling system comprising a manager unit with an input device, processor, and wireless transmitter, and a player unit with a wireless receiver and output device, integrated into a catcher's chest protector, enabling secure and visible/vibratory transmission of signals from an off-field location to on-field players.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hand signals are used for communication, then the communication method is simple and does not require additional devices, but the signals can be detected and stolen by the opposing team
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual hand signal system with an electronic wireless communication system. The manager unit transmits signals wirelessly to player units, which then display or vibrate to convey the same information that would have been communicated through hand signals, thereby securing the communication while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless transmission as an intermediary between the manager and players. Instead of direct visual communication through hand signals, the system uses wireless signals as a mediator to transmit information securely, preventing the opposing team from detecting the communication
2Ease of operation
If visual hand signals are used, then the communication can be seen by all players, but the signals are difficult to discern for players in the outfield
Solution Approach 1:
The player units utilize different colors of LEDs to represent different types of signals or pitches. This color-coding system allows players to quickly distinguish between different signals at a glance, improving both visibility and clarity for players throughout the field including those in the outfield
Solution Approach 2:
The player units incorporate vibration motors that provide tactile feedback corresponding to different signals. This vibration mechanism allows players to feel the signals even when visual detection is difficult, ensuring clear communication reaches all players regardless of their position on the field
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
Facilitates effective and private communication of defensive strategies to players, enhancing team coordination and strategy execution while preventing signal theft by the opposing team.
Implementation Method 1
the transmitter to transmit a signal indicative of the desired call. The receiver then receives the transmitted signal from the manager unit
Implementation Method 2
The output signal may also include a vibratory signal perceived by the catcher
Data Source
AI summary
A catcher's chest protector with electronic components. The device includes a padded chest protector including adjustable straps for securement to a baseball or softball catcher's torso. The chest protector includes a wireless receiver, an LED display, and a vibration mechanism. The LED display is disposed on a front side of the chest protector. The wireless receiver is configured to receive a remote signal corresponding to a particular instruction or strategy, whereby the instruction or strategy is displayed on the LED display for viewing by the pitcher and the other defensive position players. The wireless receiver is further configured to cause the vibration mechanism to vibrate in a predefined pattern upon receiving an instruction meant for the catcher, such that the catcher is secretly notified of the instruction. The chest protector can be utilized to speed up a game, or to accurately relay strategies and instructions to players.