Embedded Player Unit in Chest Protector Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Baseball and softball coaches face challenges in effectively and privately communicating defensive strategies to players without these signals being detected by the opposing team, especially for outfield players who struggle to see hand signals.
Innovation Solution
A sports signaling system comprising a manager unit with an input device, wireless transmitter, and processor, and a player unit with a wireless receiver and output device embedded in a chest protector, using polycarbonate shields for protection and enabling visual or vibratory signals to convey calls without direct contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If hand signals are used for communication, then coaches can convey strategies to players, but the signals may be detected and stolen by the opposing team
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the coach and player. The coach's handheld device transmits signals wirelessly to the player's receiver embedded in the chest protector, eliminating the need for visible hand signals that can be stolen by opponents while maintaining secure communication through encrypted wireless channels.
2Reliability
If electronic components are embedded in chest protector, then player unit is protected from damage, but the chest protector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electronic components (receiver, battery, processor) directly into the chest protector structure itself. The receiver is embedded within the chest protector housing, and the battery is integrated into the same structure, creating a unified protective device that combines both protection and communication functions without requiring separate mounting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The chest protector is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides physical protection for the player while simultaneously housing the wireless communication receiver and battery. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate protective equipment and communication devices, reducing overall system complexity despite the added electronic capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If player unit does not contact the player, then comfort is improved, but secure mounting becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The player unit is merged with the chest protector structure itself. The receiver and battery are embedded within the chest protector housing, which is then strapped to the player's body. This integration ensures secure mounting through the chest protector's existing strap system while maintaining player comfort by eliminating separate contact points for the electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
A sports signaling system comprises a manager unit and a player unit. The manager unit comprises an input device, a wireless transmitter, and a processor. The player unit comprises a wireless receiver, an output device, and a processor. The player unit is embedded in a chest protector worn by a catcher of a baseball game or a softball game. The chest protector comprises a shield protecting the player unit. The shield is made of a polycarbonate material. In one example, an entirety of the player unit is between an inner layer of the chest protector and an outer layer of the chest protector. The player unit does not contact the catcher.