Conductive Fabric Speed Tracker for Self-Defense
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-defense training targets either require a second person to hold them, providing imprecise feedback, or are stationary without feedback, and prior devices using lasers are expensive, heavy, and require constant calibration due to variations in user size and strike location, leading to poor or inaccurate measurements of strike force, speed, and rate.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising alternating layers of conductive and non-conductive fabric, which generates electrical signals upon impact, transmitting data to a computer or mobile device for accurate measurement and display of strike speed, force, and rate without the need for additional personnel or calibration, and is designed to be durable and adaptable to various user sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser sensors are used to measure strike speed, then measurement capability is provided, but the device becomes expensive, heavy, and requires constant calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical laser measurement system with an electrical sensing system using conductive fabric layers. The strike detection is achieved through electrical contact between conductive layers rather than optical laser measurement, eliminating the need for expensive and heavy laser equipment while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from optical laser reflection/detection to electrical conductivity changes. By measuring the time it takes for an electrical signal to travel between conductive fabric layers upon strike, the system achieves speed measurement through electrical parameter changes rather than optical methods.
2Measurement precision
If laser is focused on a particular location, then speed measurement is possible, but accurate measurement of strike force on the bag is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the strike detection into multiple electrical measurement points within the fabric structure. By having multiple conductive layers at different positions, the system captures electrical signals from different segments of the strike, enabling both speed calculation and force estimation through signal analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by analyzing the electrical signals generated during strike. The timing and magnitude of electrical signals between conductive layers provide information about both strike speed and force, creating a feedback mechanism that delivers comprehensive strike information to the user.
3Loss of information
If hand held target is used, then feedback is provided by the holder, but the feedback is imprecise and requires a second person
Solution Approach 1:
The target becomes self-sufficient by incorporating electronic sensing capabilities directly into the fabric. The target autonomously detects strikes, processes the electrical signals, and provides feedback without requiring a second person to hold or sense the strike, making the system independent and self-service capable.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive fabric layers act as an intermediary between the strike and the feedback system. Instead of relying on human sensory perception, the electrical conductive fabric mediates the strike detection and transmits this information electronically, providing precise and objective feedback.
4Ease of operation
If stationary target is used, then no second person is required, but no feedback is provided to the participant
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary target gains multiple functions by integrating sensing and feedback capabilities. It not only serves as a strike surface but also autonomously detects, measures, and communicates strike information, making it a multi-functional device that combines the advantages of both stationary and interactive targets.
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 provides consistent, accurate, and cost-effective measurement and feedback on strike parameters, reducing equipment weight and cost, eliminating the risk of harm, and improving ease of use and accuracy across different users and strike locations.
Implementation Method 1
The force of the strike causes portions of the first conductive layer of fabric come into contact with portions of the second conductive fabric layer through the perforations in the non-conductive material. When this occurs, the first and/or second conductive layers generate an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a device for measuring and displaying the speed, force, rate and/or frequency that an object or a body part strikes a target. The present invention includes an impact sensor, transmitter, computer and display. The sensor includes layers of alternating conductive and non-conductive material that are wrapped around the target. The conductive layers of fabric generate electrical impulses when struck and serve as data points that are interpreted by the computer to derive statistics about a strike against the target.