Interactive Speed Ladder with Sensor-Embedded LED Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Speed ladder users lack detailed electronic data and accurate feedback on their performance, relying on manual observations or time recordings which are subjective and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a speed ladder with sensors and LEDs that captures and displays light path sequence data and foot movement data, using sensors attached to the user to create records and output light path sequences for improved analysis and feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual observation and time recording are used to track speed ladder performance, then the method is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the measurement precision and reliability of performance data are low due to human subjectivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance data accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual observation and time recording (mechanical/human system) with an automated electronic system comprising sensors, processors, and display devices. Sensors attached to the speed ladder and/or user's footwear automatically detect foot movements, while processors analyze the data and provide immediate feedback through visual and auditory signals, eliminating human subjectivity and significantly improving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by having sensors automatically attached to the speed ladder or user's footwear, which then autonomously detect, record, and analyze foot movement data without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates by providing real-time feedback through lights and sounds, allowing users to independently track and improve their performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Loss of information

If detailed electronic tracking and analysis systems are implemented, then measurement precision and feedback quality improve, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance data completenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the tracking system into distinct functional components: sensors for data collection, processors for data analysis, and display devices for feedback delivery. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive data collection and analysis capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating multiple capabilities into a single unified platform that can detect various foot movement parameters, analyze performance data, provide real-time visual feedback through lights, provide auditory feedback, and track progress over time. This universal approach reduces the need for multiple separate devices and systems.

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

3Productivity

If automated sensor-based tracking is used, then productivity and data collection speed improve, but the ease of operation decreases due to setup and calibration requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem setup ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs self-service mechanisms where sensors automatically attach to the speed ladder or user's footwear and begin collecting data without manual configuration. The processors automatically calibrate and analyze the data streams, and the system self-adjusts based on detected movements, eliminating the need for complex setup and calibration procedures while maintaining high data collection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides continuous real-time feedback through visual lights and auditory signals that guide users on proper form and technique. This feedback mechanism allows users to self-correct during exercise, reducing the need for operator intervention and simplifying operation while maintaining high productivity through automated tracking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10912976B2Systems, media, and methods for an interactive speed ladder
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 ZIMMERMAN ADAM
  • US10912976B2 patent drawing
  • US10912976B2 patent drawing
  • US10912976B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, media and methods for an interactive speed ladder are provided. A system includes a speed ladder that has parallel side members and parallel cross members each connecting each of the side members. The system may further include a receiving module configured to receive light path sequence data and foot movement data of a user relative to the speed ladder, wherein the light path sequence data and the foot movement data are received from different sources. The system may also further include lights, located within the cross members, configured to display a light path sequence based upon sequence data received prior to a start of the sequence and an output module configured to output user foot movement data.