Embedded Ball Sensors for Motion Parameter Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sports performance systems lack effective methods to improve player performance by providing real-time data and feedback on ball motion parameters, limiting the ability to compare individual performance with celebrities or track target accuracy in various sports.
Innovation Solution
A sports performance system comprising sensors embedded in balls, transmitting data to a processor for analysis and display, allowing users to compare their ball motion parameters with those of celebrities and predict target accuracy, integrated with video games for enhanced training and competition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are embedded in balls to capture ball motion parameters, then measurement precision of ball motion is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, barometer, microphone, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, light sensor, proximity sensor, GPS receiver) within the ball structure itself. This nesting approach integrates the sensing system into the existing ball, allowing precise measurement of ball motion parameters without requiring external measurement equipment, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication module as an intermediary between the sensors embedded in the ball and the external processing system. This intermediary enables data transmission from the ball's internal sensors to external devices without physical connections, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high measurement precision through direct sensor-to-ball integration
2Loss of information
If real-time data transmission from ball sensors is implemented, then information availability for performance analysis is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic data transmission rather than continuous transmission. The wireless communication module transmits sensor data at predetermined intervals or when specific events occur (such as ball release, catch, or ground contact detected by the accelerometer). This periodic action ensures that critical ball motion information is captured and transmitted while minimizing energy consumption by keeping the communication module dormant between transmission events
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-loads the ball with sufficient power capacity (through rechargeable or replaceable batteries) before use. The system is designed to operate through multiple practice sessions with a single battery charge, allowing preliminary energy preparation that reduces the need for frequent recharging and minimizes energy management complexity during actual use
3Loss of information
If multiple sensors are integrated in the ball, then data comprehensiveness for performance feedback is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional electronic control unit that integrates data processing, storage, and wireless communication capabilities. This single electronic module handles data from all sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, barometer, microphone, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, light sensor, proximity sensor, GPS receiver), reducing the need for separate processing circuits for each sensor and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining comprehensive data collection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensor modules and their associated electronics into a single integrated assembly within the ball. The electronic control unit merges data processing functions for all sensors, and the wireless communication module serves as a unified interface for all data transmissions. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled and tested, thereby easing manufacturing complexity while preserving comprehensive performance data collection
4Productivity
If ball sensing system is added to sports performance training, then training effectiveness is improved, but cost of equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the ball to autonomously collect, process, and transmit its own performance data without requiring external measurement equipment or complex setup infrastructure. The embedded sensors and wireless communication module allow the ball to self-report metrics such as release speed, spin rate, trajectory, and catch accuracy directly to coaching systems, eliminating the need for expensive external high-speed cameras, radar guns, or specialized tracking infrastructure, thereby improving training effectiveness while controlling system cost
Data Source
AI summary
A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: receive input pertaining to motion of the football; derive at least one football motion parameter from the input pertaining to the motion of the football; and display information relating to the input. The at least one football motion parameter includes spiral efficiency.