Sensor-Integrated Racket with Dynamic Property Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

In racket sports, players face challenges in receiving feedback on their performance due to the dynamic nature of the game, which makes it difficult to collect and analyze data on movements and strokes, and existing devices are limited in functionality and durability.

Innovation Solution

A racket assembly equipped with sensors that generate signals indicative of performance parameters, a processor to analyze these signals, and a feedback system to provide real-time feedback to the player, along with an energy supply to adjust racket properties dynamically.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If measuring devices are incorporated in sports implements, then data collection capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The racket assembly integrates multiple functions into a single device: sensors for data collection, processor for analysis, feedback system for player guidance, and energy supply for power. This multi-functional integration improves measurement capability while managing complexity through unified design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines sensors, processor, feedback system, and energy supply into an integrated racket assembly. The sensor assembly includes multiple sensors that are merged into a cohesive unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If devices for altering racket properties are provided, then adaptability to different situations is improved, but reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different situationsVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The racket assembly includes an energy supply and powered device that can dynamically alter racket properties during play. The system transitions from static racket characteristics to dynamic, adjustable properties, enabling adaptation to different playing situations while maintaining structural integrity through controlled actuation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The powered device alters physical parameters of the racket such as stiffness, weight distribution, or string tension based on playing conditions. This parameter adjustment capability provides adaptability to different situations while the controlled nature of changes maintains reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If multiple sensors and processing components are added, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance analysis accuracyVSAvoidease of use during play
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates a feedback system that processes sensor data and provides actionable information to the player. This automated feedback loop eliminates the need for players to manually analyze complex sensor data, maintaining ease of operation while leveraging precise measurements for performance improvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The processor automatically analyzes sensor data and generates performance insights without requiring player intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously processing information and delivering results, keeping the interface simple for players while maintaining high measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8602922B2Methods and apparatuses for enhancing performance in racket sports
Publication Date: 2013.12.10 HEAD TECHNOLOGY GMBH
  • US8602922B2 patent drawing
  • US8602922B2 patent drawing
  • US8602922B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A racket assembly may include a racket, and at least one sensor operatively coupled to the racket. The at least one sensor may be configured to generate a signal indicative of at least one parameter related to use of the racket. The racket assembly may also include a processor configured to receive the signal as an input and generate an output based on the signal.