Electronic Down and Distance Marker System with Light Projectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing down and distance marker systems in American football lack real-time accuracy, safety, and communication, with existing line-to-gain indicators posing hazards to players and failing to provide visual indicators for first downs, and lacking integration with stadium displays.
Innovation Solution
An electronic down and distance marker system featuring light projectors for visual line-to-gain indicators, cameras for field perspective video recording, and remote control units for convenient operation, along with wireless connectivity for real-time data communication to stadium displays, enhancing safety by not altering the playing surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If plastic or vinyl sheets are placed on the ground as line-to-gain indicators, then visual indication of the line to gain is provided, but player safety deteriorates due to slipping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of plastic/vinyl sheets placed on the ground with an optical system using light projectors that project the line-to-gain indicator onto the field surface. This substitution eliminates the need for physical markers that create slipping hazards while maintaining visual indication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing physical markers on the field, the system creates an optical copy or projection of the line-to-gain indicator on the field surface. The projected light pattern replicates the visual information previously provided by physical sheets without the associated safety risks.
2Loss of information
If existing down and distance marker systems are used, then basic down and distance information is displayed, but real-time communication with stadium displays and officials is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The down and distance marker system is enhanced with multi-functionality by integrating wireless communication capabilities that enable real-time data transmission to multiple receivers including stadium displays, officials' devices, and television broadcast systems. This allows a single system to serve multiple communication functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms where the marker system continuously transmits down and distance information to various stakeholders. The feedback loop ensures all parties receive updated information simultaneously, allowing for immediate response and decision-making based on current game state.
3Measurement precision
If visual indicators for first downs are added when it is hard to visually determine, then accuracy of first down determination is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses distinct color changes and optical patterns projected on the field to clearly indicate first down lines. By utilizing different colors and visual patterns, the system enhances the visibility and precision of first down determination without requiring complex mechanical or electronic indicator mechanisms.
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
Provides real-time accurate information to officials and audiences, improves player safety by eliminating slipping hazards, and enhances the overall game experience through improved communication and visualization of down and distance markers.
Implementation Method 1
a light projector may be operably connected to the second marker for projecting optical light to identify a line of gain
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic down and distance marker system that may comprise a first marker, a second marker connected to a first marker by a physical member having a distance of about ten yards, and a down marker. The present system may include a measurement device for measuring a linear distance between the down marker and the second marker and one or more electronic displays disposed on one of the down marker and the second marker that may display a down and/or the measured linear distance between the down marker and the second marker. A light projector may project one or more of a line of light corresponding to the line to gain, and/or a shape to optically mark the line to gain on the sideline. A remote control, camera and/or an improved wireless measurement and communications capability may also be incorporated into the present system.