Dragon Boat Paddle Sensing for Real-Time Stroke Force Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for measuring and training in dragon boat racing lack real-time feedback and objective data, relying heavily on subjective observations and post-processing, which hinders timely adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A water training integrated machine for dragon boat racing, comprising sensors, data operation units, and communication modules mounted on paddles, connected to a shore data processing device for real-time stroke force and rate monitoring, integrating sensors, signal processing, and wireless communication for accurate and immediate feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional observation and self-perception methods are used for measurement, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision and objectivity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestroke force measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces subjective mechanical observation methods with electronic sensing systems. Strain sensors mounted on paddles convert mechanical stroke forces into electrical signals, which are then processed and transmitted wirelessly to provide objective, quantifiable data about stroke characteristics, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining practical system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate devices including strain sensors, signal processing units, and wireless communication modules that mediate between the physical stroke action and the final measurement data. These intermediaries transform raw mechanical forces into processed, actionable information that can be analyzed in real-time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If video analysis systems are used to record and analyze stroke movements, then objective data can be obtained, but post-processing work increases significantly and real-time feedback is not provided

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time feedback availabilityVSAvoidpost-processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring stroke parameters through strain sensors and immediately transmitting processed data via wireless communication to coaching stations. This allows coaches and athletes to receive instant information about stroke force, rate, and symmetry, enabling timely adjustments during training sessions without requiring post-session video analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces time-consuming video recording and manual analysis systems with electronic sensing and automated data processing. Strain sensors continuously capture stroke dynamics, microcontrollers process the signals in real-time, and wireless transmission delivers results instantly, eliminating the delayed feedback inherent in video analysis workflows

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Loss of information

If wearable devices are used to record physiological data, then physiological information can be collected, but the data does not directly reflect stroke movement quality and efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestroke quality informationVSAvoiddata relevance
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by placing strain sensors directly on the paddles at specific locations where stroke forces are generated. This localized measurement approach captures the actual mechanical characteristics of each stroke action, providing direct information about stroke quality and efficiency rather than indirect physiological proxies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of training, improving effectiveness and convenience by providing objective data through integrated sensor and wireless communication, with modular design for easy maintenance and adaptation to evolving needs.

Implementation Method 1

the sensor adopts a strain sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoresistive effect: Piezoresistive Effect

Implementation Method 2

the communication receiving module and the communication transmitting module are connected by a LoRa communication protocol/2.4G communication protocol

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260048313A1Water training integrated machine for dragon boat racing
Publication Date: 2026.02.19 YANGTZE UNIVERSITY
  • US20260048313A1 patent drawing
  • US20260048313A1 patent drawing
  • US20260048313A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to sports training and testing technology and discloses a water training integrated machine for dragon boat racing. The system comprises a dragon boat, a shore data processing device, and a water device. The water device is mounted on a blade of the dragon boat and includes a sensor, a data operation unit, and a communication transmitting module, sequentially connected. These components are powered by a power supply module. The data operation unit communicates with the shore data processing device via the communication transmitting module. The shore data processing device comprises a data processing module, a display module, and multiple communication receiving modules. The display module and communication receiving modules are electrically connected to the data processing module. This technical solution enables accurate measurement and real-time monitoring of stroke force during water sports training, thereby enhancing performance analysis and training efficiency.