Sensor-Equipped Hockey Stick Training Tool for Real-Time Shot Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing hockey performance, such as video analysis and radar speed guns, lack detailed, quantitative analysis or immediate feedback on technique, particularly for specific moves like slap shots.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an instrumented hockey puck and stick, a wearable device, and an external computer that processes data from sensors to provide real-time audible, visible, or haptic cues to improve player performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If video analysis and radar speed guns are used for performance analysis, then basic performance metrics can be obtained, but detailed quantitative analysis and immediate feedback on technique are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (accelerometers, gyroscopes, force sensors, proximity sensors) into an integrated sensor system embedded within hockey equipment. This merging of sensing capabilities enables comprehensive data collection for detailed performance analysis that neither video analysis nor radar alone could provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback by processing sensor data and providing immediate cues to players about their technique. The feedback mechanism delivers actionable information on stick angle, body positioning, and shot execution, allowing players to adjust their technique during training sessions.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are embedded in hockey equipment to capture detailed performance data, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to measure multiple performance parameters simultaneously using a unified platform. Accelerometers, gyroscopes, force sensors, and proximity sensors all contribute to comprehensive performance analysis, making the system multi-functional and reducing overall complexity compared to separate measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor components are nested within the hockey equipment structure. The sensor system is integrated into the equipment rather than being external, with sensors embedded in the stick, puck, or player wearable, creating a compact nested architecture that reduces system complexity.
3Loss of time
If real-time sensor data processing and feedback are implemented, then immediate performance feedback is provided, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system processes and transmits sensor data at periodic intervals rather than continuously, reducing energy consumption while still providing timely feedback. Data collection occurs continuously but processing and transmission are performed periodically, balancing real-time feedback requirements with power conservation.
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
Provides players with immediate, detailed feedback on their performance, allowing them to adjust their techniques in real-time and optimize their skill-building exercises.
Implementation Method 1
Accelerometers measure puck speed, acceleration, and impact force
Implementation Method 2
Gyroscopes detect angular velocity and spin
Implementation Method 3
Force sensors measure contact pressure at various points along the blade and shaft
Implementation Method 4
Vibration sensors in the blade capture resonance data
Implementation Method 5
Proximity sensors determine the puck's distance and relative position from the stick
Data Source
AI summary
A hockey puck outfitted with sensors and a hockey stick outfitted with sensors, are both coupled with each other and with a wearable device having a computer storing an application and with an external device. The application may be stored in a wearable device or an external device such as a computer and receives data from sensors in the hockey puck and hockey stick, processes the data and provides information about the user's performance and recommendations for improved performance. This combination of an instrumented puck, stick, wearable feedback device and external device allows players to gain insights into their performance and to receive instant notifications when their actions align with optimal metrics for performance.