Instrumented Running Enclosure for Performance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing and improving running technique in athletes are limited by the amount of data collected, which hinders coaches' ability to provide comprehensive feedback and guidance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an instrumented enclosure with sensors, wearable devices, and cueing devices that captures detailed running performance data and provides real-time feedback, allowing athletes to train independently and receive personalized coaching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional running assessment methods are used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the amount of data collected is limited and measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing technologies (force sensors, optical cameras, wearable sensors) into a single integrated running analysis system. The enclosure merges ground-based force platforms with overhead optical measurement systems and wearable device data, creating a comprehensive measurement system that captures multiple aspects of running technique simultaneously, thereby improving measurement precision while managing complexity through integration
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures ground reaction forces, captures optical motion data, collects wearable sensor information, and provides real-time feedback. This multi-functional approach allows a single system to comprehensively assess various running parameters (stride rate, ground contact time, bounce, pronation) rather than requiring separate specialized devices for each measurement
2Loss of information
If comprehensive sensors and cueing devices are added to the enclosure, then running performance analysis is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into separate modular components: force sensors embedded in the running surface, optical cameras positioned overhead, and wearable sensors on the athlete. Each component independently collects specific types of data, and the results are integrated by a central processor. This segmentation allows comprehensive information collection while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
A central processing system acts as an intermediary that receives data from multiple diverse sensors (force platforms, optical cameras, wearable devices), synchronizes the different data streams, and integrates them into a unified running performance analysis. This intermediary component manages the complexity of handling multiple information sources while delivering comprehensive analysis
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system for determining running performances using an enclosure. The system includes a running surface within an enclosure. The system can also include sensors, audio devices, display devices, and lighting devices along the length of the running surface. The system can further include user-wearable devices having mobile sensors. Additionally, the system can include a processor and a storage device storing program instructions that control the system to trigger a running performance and log data of the running performance received from the sensors and the mobile sensors. Additionally, the system can generate audiovisual cues using the audio, display, and lighting devices.