Garment-Integrated LED Navigation System for Path Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Runners or walkers in unknown areas face orientation challenges, especially at night, as traditional signage is limited, and remembering complex paths with many curves is difficult.
Innovation Solution
A method using a GPS module in a smartphone integrated into a garment, which controls light-emitting elements on the garment to guide the user along a predetermined path by activating left or right light-emitting elements based on their position, providing visual cues for turns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional signage is used to indicate running paths, then orientation can be provided during daytime, but the signage becomes ineffective at night
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the light emitting elements controllable and adjustable based on real-time position data from the GPS module. The system dynamically activates left or right light emitting elements depending on the runner's actual position relative to the predetermined path, providing adaptive guidance that responds to changing conditions during the run.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/physical signage systems with an electronic navigation system using GPS modules, control elements, and light emitting elements integrated into the garment. This substitution enables the system to provide illuminated directional guidance that works effectively at night, overcoming the limitation of traditional signage.
2Loss of information
If a running path with many curves is explained to the sportsperson, then the complete path can be communicated, but the sportsperson must remember the entire course which is difficult with many curves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the runner's actual position via the GPS module and comparing it with the predetermined running path stored in memory. The control element receives this position information and activates the appropriate light emitting elements (left or right) based on the determined required direction, providing real-time feedback guidance that eliminates the need for the runner to remember the entire complex course.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by storing the complete predetermined running path in advance in the memory unit before the runner starts. The system has already calculated and prepared the sequence of directional instructions, so during the run, it only needs to retrieve and communicate the next required direction based on current position, rather than requiring the runner to remember everything.
3Measurement precision
If GPS navigation is implemented with continuous light emission to guide turns, then orientation accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by controlling the light emitting elements to emit light only when and where needed for directional guidance. The control element activates specific light emitting elements (left or right) periodically based on the runner's position relative to upcoming turns in the predetermined path, rather than continuous emission, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining orientation accuracy.
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
Ensures safe and easy navigation along unknown paths by providing timely and intuitive visual guidance, enhancing the user's ability to follow the path accurately, even in low-light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Determining the actual position of the runner or walker by means of a GPS module
Implementation Method 2
Controlling of at least two light emitting elements which are arranged at or in a garment which is worn by the runner or walker
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for guiding a runner along a predetermined running path including the steps: a) Determining the actual position of the runner by a GPS module; b) Assigning the actual position of the runner to a position along the predetermined path; c) Determining if the runner has to continue the predetermined path c1) straight ahead, or c2) by turning to the left or c3) by turning to the right; d) Controlling at least two light emitting elements arranged at or in a garment worn by the runner, wherein at least one left light emitting element is located in a left hand region of the garment and at least one right light emitting element is located in a right hand region of the garment, wherein d1) no activation of the light emitting elements is carried out in above case c1), d2) at least one left light emitting element is activated in above case c2), and d3) at least one right light emitting element is activated in above case c3).