Body-Worn Microsensors for Real-Time Athletic Technique Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Athletes face challenges in improving their sports-specific technique and performance due to the difficulty in obtaining real-time feedback on their technique during athletic activities.
Innovation Solution
The use of microsensors applied to various points on an athlete's body to measure and collect data on technique and skill, analyze this data, and provide real-time information to the athlete and other interested parties to improve technique and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional coaching methods are used to provide feedback on athletic technique, then the coach can observe and guide the athlete, but the feedback is delayed and the athlete cannot receive real-time information to correct deficiencies immediately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by placing microsensors on the athlete's body to continuously measure movement parameters and immediately communicate this data to a processor that provides corrective guidance, enabling the athlete to adjust technique instantly rather than waiting for post-performance review
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces microsensors and wireless communication devices as intermediaries between the athlete and the coaching system, allowing automated real-time measurement and transmission of technique data without requiring the coach to continuously observe and manually provide feedback
2Productivity
If multiple technique deficiencies are addressed simultaneously, then the athlete can work on multiple aspects of performance at once, but the athlete cannot concentrate on one deficiency at a time and may degrade performance in other areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the technique analysis by identifying and isolating specific movement parameters and deficiencies through microsensor data, allowing the system to target and correct individual aspects of technique separately while maintaining overall performance through continuous monitoring of all parameters
3Ease of operation
If the athlete immerses themselves in the sport medium (e.g., water) to practice technique, then the athlete can perform the sport-specific movements, but concentration on practicing good technique becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service feedback by having the microsensors automatically measure and communicate technique parameters directly to the athlete during the sport activity, eliminating the need for the athlete to rely on external observation or post-performance review and providing continuous self-guided correction
Data Source
AI summary
A microsensor module includes: one or more microsensors; a power supply; communication circuit; and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry may be configured to: receive data measured by the one or more microsensors; process the measured data to determine a plurality of different performance parameters related to technique of an athlete when performing a sport; and output, using the communication circuit, real-time information about the correctness of technique and performance level of the athlete performing the sport, wherein the microsensor module is encapsulated in a water-proof package that is attachable or adjoinable to the athlete's body.