Light Grid System for Sports Object Trajectory Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for determining the speed and trajectory of sports objects are expensive, making them inaccessible for amateur and training purposes, whereas affordable solutions are needed to provide diverse sports-performance information useful for both professionals and amateurs.
Innovation Solution
A light grid system comprising a frame with light-source and photo-detector assemblies that detect the interruption of light beams by moving objects, calculating motion characteristics such as speed and trajectory based on the duration of beam interruptions, allowing for the determination of angle of incidence and object position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional systems (high-speed cameras and touch sensors) are used to determine speed and trajectory, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/optical systems (high-speed cameras, touch sensors) with a simpler light beam interruption detection system. Light sources create beams that are interrupted by the moving object, and photo detectors record the interruption timing to calculate speed and trajectory, eliminating the need for expensive conventional equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses inexpensive light sources (such as LEDs) and photo detectors instead of costly high-speed cameras. These components are relatively cheap, have sufficient lifespan for the application, and can be easily replaced if needed, making the overall system affordable for amateur and training use.
2Measurement precision
If conventional systems are deployed, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The complex conventional measurement systems are replaced with a simpler light-based detection system that is easier to deploy and operate. The system requires minimal setup, with light sources and photo detectors positioned to create detection zones that automatically track objects without requiring expert operation or complex calibration.
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
The system provides accurate and affordable measurement of motion characteristics, enabling effective performance analysis for athletes, suitable for both professional and amateur events, by using a distributed array of light sources and detectors to track objects across a grid of intersecting light beams.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of light-source assemblies emits a light beam which is detected by its corresponding photo-detector assembly
Implementation Method 2
each of the plurality of light-source assemblies emits a light beam which is detected by its corresponding photo-detector assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for determining motion characteristics of a sports object. In an embodiment, the system comprises a light grid structure and a processor. The light grid structure comprises a frame and light-source assemblies and photo-detector assemblies. Each of the light-source assemblies and photo-detector assemblies is mounted on the frame such that each light-source assembly is on an opposite side of the frame than a corresponding photo-detector assembly, and each light-source assembly emits a light beam which is detected by its corresponding photo-detector assembly. The processor receives data that is based on outputs of the photo-detector assemblies. The data indicates light beam(s) which have been interrupted. Based on the data, the processor determines motion characteristic(s) of an object which interrupted the light beam(s), including an angle of incidence.