Electromagnetic Positional Detection for Sports
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the location of objects or participants in sports and games, such as manual visual inspection and video replays, are prone to disputes and inefficiencies, especially when visual information is obstructed, and lack precision in decision-making.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing at least two electromagnetically or electrically conductive elements with machine-to-machine communication, where interactions between these elements change electrical properties, allowing for precise positional information to be communicated to decision-makers, enabling accurate and timely determinations without relying solely on visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual visual inspection by referees or umpires is used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but measurement precision and reliability are poor leading to disputes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection system with an automated electromagnetic detection system. Elements with electromagnetic surfaces interact to create detectable signals that automatically determine positional information, eliminating human error and providing precise, objective measurements without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the physical elements and the detection system. The electromagnetic surfaces on elements create detectable interactions that mediate the positional information, allowing precise detection without direct visual observation or manual measurement.
2Reliability
If visual inspection methods are used, then the system is simple, but reliability deteriorates when visual information is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes visual inspection with electromagnetic detection that can penetrate obstructions. The electromagnetic interactions between elements provide reliable positional information even when visual lines of sight are blocked, as electromagnetic fields can detect interactions through obstacles that vision cannot.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical (visual) to electromagnetic. This parameter change allows the system to detect positional information through obstructions that block visual light, significantly improving reliability in conditions where visual inspection fails.
3Measurement precision
If video replays are used for decision-making, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous, real-time detection of positional information through ongoing electromagnetic interactions during the sporting event. Unlike video replays that require stopping and reviewing, the electromagnetic detection continuously monitors and provides immediate positional data, eliminating delays while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback mechanisms where electromagnetic interactions provide immediate positional information to decision-makers during the event. This continuous feedback loop eliminates the need for time-consuming video replays, as the system provides ongoing accurate positional data that can be used for immediate decisions.
4Reliability
If electromagnetic detection elements are used, then reliability and precision improve, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into discrete, modular elements that can be independently placed and configured. Each element with electromagnetic surfaces operates as an independent unit, making the overall system more manageable and easier to configure despite the advanced electromagnetic detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection framework where the same electromagnetic element design can be applied across different sports and applications. The multi-functional capability of these elements reduces overall system complexity by using standardized components for various detection needs.
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
This system minimizes disputes and saves time by providing clear, precise positional information, applicable to various sports and performance media, enhancing accuracy and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least two elements, with at least one element involved in the sporting activity; a power source, such as the electrical mains, a battery, or a solar cell; and machine-to-machine communication, which are collectively arranged such that if any two or more elements interact, the material properties of at least one element can be detected
Implementation Method 2
at least two elements each of which has an electromagnetically interactive surface and machine-to-machine communication means, which are collectively arranged such that if two elements interact electromagnetically, the interaction is communicated by the machine-to-machine communication means to an output means
Data Source
AI summary
A sports and performance media positional detection system, comprising: at least two elements, with at least one element involved in the sporting activity; a power source; and machine-to-machine communication, which are collectively arranged such that if any two or more elements interact, their electromagnetic properties can be detected thus allowing the position of the interacting elements to be communicated to a decision maker. The system can be applied to at least one stationary element, which can be the playing surface, lines defining the boundaries, or a set of goalposts; and at least one moving element, which could be a ball, footwear, or the participants themselves. The system can also be applied to performance media capture.