Wearable Sensor Network for Real-Time Athletic Motion Analytics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports analytics techniques rely on bulky sensors and video analysis, which are unsuitable for use during athletic performance and do not effectively address all areas of athletic development and performance, particularly technical and tactical aspects.
Innovation Solution
The development of wearable and stationary sensor devices using inertial measurement units for 3D motion capture, providing real-time feedback through vibration actuators and data analysis to enhance athletic performance by monitoring rotational and translational movements, and offering insights for biomechanical adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If bulky sensors are used for sports analytics, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because they are unsuitable for being worn during athletic performance
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sensing function into multiple small wearable sensors distributed across the athlete's body and equipment, rather than using a single bulky sensor. Each sensor captures specific local data, which is then aggregated to provide comprehensive analytics suitable for athletic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/video-based analysis systems with wireless sensor networks that use electromagnetic fields and digital signal processing to capture and transmit performance data, enabling lightweight wearable form factors while maintaining measurement precision.
2Quantity of substance
If existing sensor technology is used, then some performance data is captured, but adaptability deteriorates because existing approaches do not address all areas of athletic performance and development
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed with multi-functionality to address all four areas of athletic development: technical (movement analysis), tactical (positioning and strategy), physical (fitness and workload), and emotional (performance psychology). The same sensor network supports diverse measurement types including acceleration, orientation, position, and physiological parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its sensing and analysis capabilities based on the specific sport, athlete, and performance area being monitored. The analytics platform can configure different sensor combinations and analysis algorithms to address the unique requirements of each athletic development domain.
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
This solution enables improved sensing and analysis of athletic performance, optimizing technical efficiency and efficacy, leading to enhanced individual and team performance across various sports activities.
Implementation Method 1
wearable and stationary sensor devices using inertial measurement units for 3D motion capture
Implementation Method 2
monitoring rotational and translational movements
Implementation Method 3
providing real-time feedback through vibration actuators
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for sports analytics are disclosed. A system for evaluating athletic performance can include wearable sensor devices configured to be removably coupled to an athlete's body during athletic performance, and one or more equipment-mountable sensor devices configured to be coupled to reference objects adjacent to an athletic performance site such as a goal or equipment. A computing device can be communicatively coupled to the wearable sensor device(s) and the equipment-mountable sensor device(s). The computing device is configured to receive sensor data from each of the sensor device(s) and to determine at least one performance parameter.