Ski Loss Detection via Proximity and Speed Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fall detection systems for skiers are complex, expensive, and difficult to implement due to harsh environmental conditions and algorithm complexity, particularly in detecting the moment of a fall to trigger inflatable safety vests effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a proximity detector and speed sensor integrated into a ski binding and boot system, which detects the loss of a ski by measuring linear speed and emitting a warning signal only when the speed exceeds a threshold, triggering the inflatable safety vest's deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic devices with algorithms and sensors are used to detect fall moment, then fall detection capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fall detection function is segmented into two independent parts: a simple proximity detector that monitors boot-ski separation, and a speed sensor that measures linear speed. Each component has a dedicated, simple function rather than requiring complex algorithms to interpret multiple sensor inputs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex algorithmic processing is extracted and replaced with a simple threshold comparison mechanism. The system only needs to detect whether speed exceeds a predetermined threshold value, eliminating the need for sophisticated fall-detection algorithms while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If proximity detector is used without mechanical connection, then ease of manufacture and reliability are improved, but detection precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection between detector components is replaced with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet attached to the boot and a Hall effect sensor on the ski binding (or vice versa) enable contactless proximity detection, simplifying assembly while maintaining detection precision through magnetic field sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary between the boot and ski binding, enabling proximity detection without direct mechanical contact. This magnetic intermediary allows the system to detect boot-ski separation while avoiding the complexity of mechanical linkages.
3Reliability
If speed threshold filtering is added to proximity detector, then false alerts are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The speed sensing function is merged with the proximity detection system into a unified fall detection device. The speed sensor and proximity detector work together as an integrated system, sharing power supply and signal processing, rather than as separate complex subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a simple parameter threshold (predetermined speed value) to filter alerts. When the measured linear speed exceeds this threshold parameter, an alert is triggered. This parameter-based filtering approach is far simpler than complex algorithms while effectively reducing false alerts.
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 solution provides a reliable, resistant, and cost-effective means to detect ski loss and activate the inflatable vest, enhancing skier safety without hindering movement, and is adaptable for various skiing configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The proximity detector is preferably of the Hall effect type
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for detecting the loss of a ski (1), said ski (1) being equipped with a binding (2) that traps a shoe (3) such that it is securely connected to the ski (1). The device (10) is characterised in that it comprises a proximity sensor (11) that can detect whether or not the shoe (3) is close to the ski (1) and/or the binding (2), and emit an alarm signal when the shoe (3) is no longer close to the ski (1) and/or the binding (2), said proximity sensor (11) not including a mechanical connection between the shoe (3) and the ski (1) and/or its binding (2).