Interactive Strike Pad Array with Real-Time LED Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recreational punching systems lack effective feedback mechanisms for measuring speed, timing, and accuracy of strikes, limiting their ability to provide engaging and personalized training experiences.
Innovation Solution
An interactive punching system with a flexible housing supporting a strike pad array and LED lighting that provides real-time feedback on strike accuracy, speed, and timing, controlled by a processor-based controller unit, which can be integrated or remotely connected via WiFi or Bluetooth, and allows for customizable training sessions through gamification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors and electronic devices are added to punching bags to detect and register strikes, then measurement precision and user engagement are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The punching bag surface is divided into multiple discrete strike zones, each equipped with its own force sensor and LED indicators. This segmentation allows independent detection and feedback for each zone, improving measurement precision while keeping individual sensor units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
LED indicators are integrated around each force sensor to provide immediate visual feedback when a strike is detected. The LEDs illuminate to confirm accurate strikes within designated zones, creating a closed-loop feedback system that enhances user engagement without requiring complex external monitoring equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LEDs are positioned around each strike pad to provide visual feedback, then user engagement and training effectiveness are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different LED configurations and lighting patterns are applied to different strike zones based on their specific training purposes. Each strike zone can have customized LED arrangements that provide specific visual cues appropriate for that particular area, enhancing training versatility while maintaining manageable control complexity through localized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The LEDs are activated in periodic sequences rather than continuously, with lighting patterns that correspond to the training program requirements. This periodic activation reduces power consumption and simplifies control logic compared to continuous operation, while still providing the necessary visual feedback for adaptive training.
3Measurement precision
If force sensors are integrated into each strike pad to detect strikes, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensing capability is divided into multiple discrete sensor units, each integrated into individual strike pads. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing where each sensor unit can be independently assembled and tested, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the presence of multiple sensors throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensor, LED indicators, and strike pad structure are merged into integrated assemblies. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate components that need to be assembled, while still maintaining the measurement precision of individual force sensors.
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
Enhances user engagement by providing precise feedback and personalized training experiences, promoting improved punching skills through gamified sessions.
Implementation Method 1
Each strike pad in the array comprises a force sensor to detect strikes
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are positioned around the force sensor and that are selectively controlled to be lit
Data Source
AI summary
A body supports a strike pad array. Each strike pad in the array comprises a force sensor to detect strikes, together with a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are positioned around the force sensor and that are lit when the user strikes the pad accurately. Each strike pad has a connecting portion that includes a set of LEDs selectively lit to telegraph a hit point to the user, namely, the strike pad associated with the connecting portion. The LEDs arranged on the connecting portion serve as a runway with the LEDs being lit progressively outward toward the strike pad to be hit next in a programmed hit sequence.