Modular Disc Throw Sensor Ring for Multi-Disc Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disc sports devices with integrated sensors are limited to a single disc and cannot provide sensor-based feedback for different discs, hindering athletes from practicing with various discs.
Innovation Solution
A modular and transferable disc sports device with a detachable connector ring and a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) that includes accelerometers, a magnetometer, GPS module, gyroscope, and wireless communication, allowing attachment to any disc for data collection and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If sensors are integrated into a molded disc, then the device structure is simplified and manufacturing is easier, but the device cannot be transferred to other discs
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate components: a connector that attaches to the disc and a sensor module that attaches to the connector. This segmentation allows the sensor module to be reused across multiple discs while keeping manufacturing straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with a universal attachment mechanism that can be applied to various disc types. The standardized connector interface enables the same sensor module to work with different discs, achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular detachable connector is used, then the device can be transferred between discs, but the attachment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A universal connector design with standardized attachment features enables the same connector structure to work with multiple disc types, achieving transferability without requiring complex custom connectors for each disc variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as an intermediary component between the disc and the sensor module. This intermediate element simplifies the overall system by providing a standardized interface that mediates the connection, reducing the complexity that would otherwise exist in direct custom integrations.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are positioned at different locations, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device imbalance during throwing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure incorporates counterbalancing features that offset the weight distribution of multiple sensors positioned at different locations on the disc. This anti-weight approach maintains throwing balance while enabling accurate multi-point measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors are strategically positioned at specific locations on the disc where they provide maximum measurement value without significantly impacting overall balance. Each sensor location is optimized for its specific measurement function while considering the overall weight distribution.
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
Enables accurate sensor-based data collection and analysis across multiple discs, providing valuable feedback for improving throwing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
The PCBA has a processor, a memory, a first accelerometer centered on the midline axis
Implementation Method 2
a gyroscope, at least one wireless communication module, and a battery
Implementation Method 3
a magnetometer, a GPS module, a gyroscope
Data Source
AI summary
A disc sports device for attachment to a throwing disc having a circular housing, having a first side opposite a second side connected by a sidewall therebetween, forming a cavity having a printed circuit board assembly within, and a midline axis passing through the center of the first side, the center of the PCBA, and the center of the second side. The PCBA has a processor, a memory, a first accelerometer centered on the midline axis, a second accelerometer offset from the first accelerometer, a GPS module, a magnetometer, a gyroscope, and at least one wireless communication module, and a battery. The disc sports device has a connecting ring having a first connector side opposite a second connector side and a central opening therebetween, the first connector side having a disc connector and the second connector side having a housing connector detachably connected to the housing.