Proximity-Based Exercise Training System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise systems require physical contact or precise movement to register a hit, which limits their applicability in rehabilitation and sports training, where range of movement is a critical performance metric.
Innovation Solution
A programmable exercise system with stimulant target units that allow users to register a hit by proximity, using a wireless network with ZigBee communication, and equipped with infra-red, capacitive, or ultrasonic sensors for distance detection, along with feedback mechanisms like light and audio signals, enabling dynamic configuration and measurement of reaction time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical contact or precise movement is required to register a hit, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based detection systems with optical detection systems. Instead of requiring physical contact with targets or precise movement to specific locations, the system uses light sources and light beam sensors to detect user actions. This substitution allows the system to maintain measurement precision while significantly improving adaptability, as users can interact from various distances and positions without mechanical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light beams as an intermediary between the user and the detection system. Rather than directly contacting targets, users interact by moving into or out of light beam paths. This intermediary approach enables the system to detect user actions with high precision while allowing flexible, natural movements that are adaptable to different training and rehabilitation needs.
2Measurement precision
If hard limits are set for movement range, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic detection zones using light beams instead of fixed hard limits. The system can detect user actions at various positions along the light beam path, allowing flexible adjustment of interaction parameters. This dynamic approach maintains measurement precision for reaction time while improving ease of operation, as users can perform exercises with natural, comfortable movements without being constrained by rigid positional limits.
3Device complexity
If physical contact with targets is required, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple mechanical contact targets with optical detection systems using light sources and beam sensors. While this increases the complexity of the detection mechanism, it dramatically improves measurement precision by enabling accurate detection of user movements, reaction times, and movement ranges without requiring physical contact. The optical system can precisely measure positions and timing events that would be difficult or impossible to detect with simple mechanical targets.
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 a flexible and effective way to assess and improve reaction time and movement range, suitable for various training needs, including rehabilitation and sports, by allowing actuation through proximity rather than physical contact, and offering customizable training routines.
Implementation Method 1
an infra-red sensor for detecting when a user has actuated the unit
Implementation Method 2
The translucent portion through which the infra red light is transmitted is positioned at a highest elevation of the housing
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4~6
AI summary
An exercise training system is provided having a system controller and a plurality of stimulant target units connected via a wireless network to the system controller. Each stimulant target unit has a light source providing light to stimulate a user, a proximity sensor providing an output of a distance between the proximity sensor and an object external to the unit, and means for providing feedback to the user to signal that the unit has been actuated by the user. The system controller includes a program for activating the stimulant target units in a sequence. The reaction by the user to the illumination is registered when the user brings a body part or other object to within a selected distance of the proximity sensor, this distance being programmable by the user.