US20070213182A1

US20070213182A1 - Boxing training apparatus

Info

Publication number: US20070213182A1
Application number: US11/713,443
Authority: US
Inventors: Joseph Anderson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-03-03
Filing date: 2007-03-02
Publication date: 2007-09-13
Also published as: WO2007103178A3; WO2007103178A2

Abstract

A training apparatus for a user comprising a simulated body element adapted to receive impact forces from a user, the body element having a head region, a mid-torso rib region and a lower-torso kidney region, each of the regions having a right section and a left section, each of the sections comprising at least one impact sensor adapted to sense an impact force to the section and to provide an impact signal as a function of the impact force, a processor communicating with the sensors, an input device adapted to obtain input from the user and to provide an input signal, the input device communicating with the processor, and the processor adapted to receive the impact signal and the input signal and to provide an output that is a function of the impact signal and the input signal.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/778,751, filed Mar. 3, 2006. The entire content of such application is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a training apparatus and, more particularly, to a training device for a boxer or martial artist.

BACKGROUND ART

Training devices for boxers and martial artists are known in the prior art. In general, such training devices record some performance parameters or challenge users with a programmed fight sequence and are commonly large, cumbersome, stationary units that are not easily portable. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,088,315, U.S. Pat. No. 4,401,303 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,110,079 teach devices taking the form of a human body. These devices, however, fail to measure the force and frequency of strikes, and are difficult to move from one location to another. U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,833 teaches an apparatus with a pictorial representation of a human opponent, but also fails to measure the force and frequency of strikes.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,464,622 teaches a boxing training apparatus in the form of a bag with a series of responsive zones. These zones, however, do not correspond to areas of a human opponent, do not have separate right and left sections, and do not provide feedback regarding the force of strikes. U.S. Pat. No. 4,941,660 teaches a boxing training apparatus in the form of a heavy bag that detects the force and frequency of strikes, but it does not differentiate between areas of the body, nor does it distinguish strikes from the left or right. U.S. Pat. No. 4,534,557 claims an apparatus that measures reaction time of a user's strikes, but it does not measure force or frequency. U.S. Pat. No. 4,108,428 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,565,366 teach devices that measure power, but they do not measure other pertinent parameters, such as frequency.
Some prior art references appear to measure force and frequency, but they limit the user's movements, and thereby do not simulate combat performance. For example, U.S. Pat. Application Publication No. 2003/0181290 restricts the user's motion by allowing only straight-line punches, and does not give the user freedom to move as he might or should in combat.
Hence, it would be beneficial to provide a training apparatus that interacts with the user and allows for a wide variety of performance parameters to be recorded, analyzed and displayed. It is specifically intended that the disclosure of all United States Patent Office references cited herein be incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

With parenthetical reference to the corresponding parts, portions, or surfaces of the disclosed embodiment, merely for the purposes of illustration and not way of limitation, the present invention provides an apparatus (15) for training an athlete, boxer, martial artist, or other user, comprising a simulated body element (16) adapted to receive impact forces from a user (17), and having a head region (18), a mid-torso rib region (19) and a lower-torso kidney region (20), each of the regions having a right section (22, 24, 26) and a left section (21, 23, 25), the head region having an additional center section (28) and the mid-torso region having an additional center section (29), and each of the sections comprising at least one impact sensor (52) adapted to sense an impact force to the section and to provide an impact signal as a function of the impact force, a processor (30) communicating with the sensors, an input device (31) adapted to obtain input from the user and to provide an input signal, the input device communicating with the processor (30), and the processor (30) adapted to receive the impact signal and the input signal and to provide an output that is a function of the impact signal and the input signal. The input may be selected from a group consisting of user name, user gender, user height, user weight, number of rounds, length of rounds and length of time between rounds. The processor (30) may be further adapted to store the impact signal and the input signal. The output may be selected from a group consisting of impact force as a function of time, impact force as a function of section, degree of impact force, location of impact force, and average degree of impact forces. The apparatus may further comprise a display screen (32) communicating with the processor (30) and adapted to display the output to the user, and the display of the output may be in a graphical form or in a tabular form. The apparatus may further comprise a camera (34, 37) communicating with the processor (30) and configured and arranged to photograph or film the user. The apparatus may further comprise a printer (33) communicating with the processor (30) and adapted to print the output.
Accordingly, the general object of the present invention is to provide an improved apparatus for training an athlete, boxer or martial artist.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that may also be used as an arcade game.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus with a simulated body element adapted to receive impact forces from a user.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus with multiple sensors located in regions that are key contact points in boxing or martial arts combat.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that can be programmed based on the needs or physical aspects of the user.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that can stabilize a user and allow him to concentrate on particular limbs or muscle groups.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that allows the user to customize a training program to include a particular series or combination of punches and/or kicks.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will monitor and report the speed, force and accuracy of a user's performance of a particular series or combination of punches and/or kicks.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will identify the time at which the user begins to fatigue or weaken.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus having at least one camera to provide visual feedback on the user's position and technique.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus having a processor adapted to receive user input, camera and sensor data, and further adapted to analyze the input and data to provide results.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will provide results such as the force of a punch to a section as a function of time, force of impact as a function of section, the degree or strength of impact forces to sections or regions, the location of impact forces, and the average degree or strength of all impact forces.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus with a screen to display graphical analysis of the results.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus having an apparatus adapted to print graphical analysis of the results.
Another object is to provide a training apparatus that allows the user to customize the reports and graphical analysis of the results.
These and other objects and advantages will become apparent from the foregoing and ongoing written specification, the drawings and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of the preferred embodiment of the training apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a side view of the electronic storage cabinet shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a front view of the electronic storage cabinet shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the processing steps for the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 is a view of the user setup menu display.
FIG. 7 is a view of the weight class setup display.
FIG. 8 is a view of the pad setup display.
FIG. 9 is a view of the combination setup display.
FIG. 10 is a view of the user setup display for the arcade game mode.
FIG. 11 is a view of the training mode setup display.
FIG. 12 is a view of the user information input display.
FIG. 13 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the arcade game mode.
FIG. 14 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the training mode.
FIG. 15 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the training mode.
FIG. 16 is an example of summary graphical feedback from the arcade game mode.
FIG. 17 is an example of summary graphical feedback from the training mode.
FIG. 18 is an example of summary tabular feedback.
FIG. 19 are examples of graphical feedback.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

At the outset, it should be clearly understood that like reference numerals are intended to identify the same structural elements, portions or surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as such elements, portions or surfaces may be further described or explained by the entire written specification, of which this detailed description is an integral part. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this invention. As used in the following description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbial derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”, etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as appropriate.
Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1-2 thereof, the present invention provides an improved athletic training apparatus, the presently preferred embodiment of which is generally indicated at 15. As shown in FIGS. 1-2, training apparatus 15 has simulated body element 16 having three distinct regions corresponding to particular regions of a human opponent: head region 18, mid-torso or rib region 19, and lower-torso or kidney region 20. Each region in turn has left section 21, 23, 25, and right section 22, 24, 26 respectively, for receiving impact forces from any direction. In addition, the head region has center section 28, and the mid-torso region has center section 29. As also shown in FIG. 1, apparatus 15 generally includes processor 30 that is connected to keyboard 31, or other mechanism for data entry, cameras 34, 37 for recording the user, screen 32 for displaying input choices, graphical feedback, photographs and video, and printer 33 for producing printed reports.
The preferred embodiment includes several supporting structures. Simulated body element 16 is attached to support 35. Support 35 is vertically adjustable to accommodate different heights. Camera 34 is supported by arm 38, which is in turn supported by post 36. Post 36 may be removable, and further functions to support screen 32. In the preferred embodiment, apparatus 15 is constructed of lightweight materials making it easy to move between locations. Platform 41 supports the entire apparatus 15, including posts 35 and 36, and further comprises wheels severally indicated at 42. Wheels 42 may be removable. It is contemplated, however, that the apparatus may be permanently installed in one location.
Brace 43 is a supporting structure meant for supporting user 17. User 17 can lean against brace 43 or secure her body to brace 43 during training. User 17 can then concentrate on working particular limbs or muscle groups while keeping the torso stationary. This feature is beneficial for a user learning new techniques or conditioning a specific area of the body. Brace 43 is vertically and horizontally adjustable to accommodate users of different heights and arm lengths. Brace 43 is removable, so the user can operate the device without brace 43.
Processor 30 and printer 33 are housed inside storage cabinet 53. Cabinet 53 is presented in detail in FIGS. 3-4. Cabinet 53 provides storage for paper 54 used by printer 33. Various tools and parts may be stored in storage areas severally indicated at 55. Processor 30 utilizes power from power source 56. Processor 30 may also receive data from summation amplifier 58 and electronic service connector block 59. The model 482M66 summation amplifier manufactured by PCB Piezotronics, Inc. may be used in the preferred embodiment. The model BNC-2111 electronic service connector block manufactured by National Instruments may be used in the preferred embodiment.
In a preferred embodiment, apparatus 15 may be used for training a boxer, kickboxer, martial artist or other athlete. The apparatus may also be used for recreational purposes. For example, the apparatus may function as an arcade game. The training apparatus and arcade game apparatus are substantially similar. If the apparatus serves as an arcade game, it may be adapted to receive payment for use. Other differences between training and arcade variations are noted where applicable.
FIG. 5 shows the various input and output variables for apparatus 15. As shown in FIG. 5, apparatus 15 has a number of input and output variables that may be selected. Owner set-up 201 allows for the selection of either an arcade or training mode, the setting of a default round length, the setting of a default rest length, a selection to clear records and a selection to set arcade records. In pad set-up 200, arcade pad names are selected, training right handed boxer pad names are selected and training left handed pad names are selected. In weight class set-up 202, male weight classes and female weight classes may be selected. Arcade main menu 202 is provided, which allows for setting the boxer's height, the boxer's name, the boxer's gender and the boxer's weight, and displaying the boxer's weight class. Training main menu 204 allows for selecting the boxer, setting up a new boxer, selecting the rounds in combo training desired, setting the number of rounds, and setting the length of the rounds. Boxer set-up menu 205 allows for setting the boxer's name, the boxer's weight, the boxer's height, setting whether the boxer is left or right handed, setting the boxer's gender, and displaying the boxer's weight class. Arcade round display 206 Shows punch data, round number, time remaining, the rounds maximum punch, live punch data, the boxer's name and the boxer's weight class. Training round display 207 shows punch data, round number, time remaining, the rounds maximum punch, live punch data, the boxer's name and the boxer's weight class. Combo-display 208 allows for selecting a combo, selecting the number of repetitions, showing the number of combos remaining, showing time, showing live punch data, showing the boxer's name and showing the boxer's weight class. Combo set-up 211 allows for selecting punch combinations, selecting pad choices for combinations, and selecting a righty-lefty user. Arcade round summary 209 shows the round number, the rest time left, the rounds maximum punch, punch summary data, the boxer's name and the boxer's weight class, and also allows for printing the arcade data. Training round summary 210 shows the round number, the rest time left, the round maximum punch, the punch summary data, the boxer's name, the boxer's weight class and weight class records. It also allows for saving training data and printing training data.
Thus, for example, during setup of the apparatus, the user may select arcade or training mode, set the default length of each round, choose the default length of rest between rounds, clear the data from previous users, and set the length of rounds for arcade use. The user may choose to proceed to a training main menu, an arcade main menu, or continue setup via the weight class setup screen or the pad setup screen. The training main menu further allows the user to proceed to the boxer setup menu or to a combination display and setup. Both the arcade mode and training mode provide particular output during the rounds and at the end of rounds. These input and output variables are discussed in detail below.
Body Element and Sensors
As discussed above, the apparatus 15 comprises simulated body element 16 that is broken into three regions 18, 19, 20 and eight sections 21-29. Head region 18, mid-torso region 19, and lower torso region 20 correspond to the areas on the body of importance in boxing and are meant to simulate a human opponent. In turn, sections 21-26 of each region correspond to the right and left side of a human body. In addition, the head region and mid-torso region have a center section 28, 29. It is contemplated that body element 16 may have additional regions and sections. Body element 16 serves as a substitute for a heavy bag or other training equipment because it allows the user to punch, kick, or otherwise strike as he normally would when fighting another person. There is no limitation on the direction or speed of the user's limbs so punches or kicks can come from any angle.
In a preferred embodiment, sections 21-29 have an outwardly facing soft strike pad, severally indicated at 50 a-50 h, that is adapted to receive punches or kicks from a user. An underlying aluminum plate connected to a sensor 52 a-52 h are provided below strike pads 50 a-50 h. Sensor 52 a-52 h are each in turn connected to processor 30 through supporting structure 35 and 41. Sensors 52 a-52 h record the force of each impact to the strike pad 50 a-50 h, and communicate that force to processor 30 for subsequent analysis. It is contemplated that each strike pad may have more than one sensor. In the preferred embodiment, impact forces may be punches, kicks or other strikes from a user, such as a cross, hook, jab, uppercut, roundhouse, or other punches or kicks.
User Input
The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an input device 31, adapted to receive user input, and screen 32 to display choices from which the user may select. Processor 30 is programmed to accept input from a user through input device 31. Processor 30 provides several menus from which the user can make selections to personalize his use. These menus appear on screen 32 throughout setup and use of the apparatus.
Although computer screen 30 and keyboard 31 are shown in FIG. 1 as the display and input device in this embodiment, it is contemplated that a touch screen could be used as an alternative. The touch screen would display choices for selection and allow each user to manipulate variables or enter information. While a conventional keyboard is shown, it is also contemplated that the keyboard may be specially configured for the contemplated functionality. Other alternatives may include a mouse, an apparatus adapted to read a data storage device, such as a magnetized card reader or disk drive, or buttons on the processor itself. Although only one keyboard is shown in FIG. 1, it is contemplated that the present invention could include more than one input device. For example, an input device may be centrally located for convenient user access, while another input device may be located elsewhere for convenient access by a trainer during the user's session.
The preferred embodiment also includes one or more cameras 34 and 37. Camera 34 is positioned above the user to provide one perspective, while camera 37 is positioned to the side of the user to provide another perspective. Although two perspectives are shown in FIG. 1, it is contemplated that the apparatus may be used without any cameras or may have one or more than two cameras. Cameras 34, 37 take photographs or video of the user in particular positions throughout the session. Processor 30 is adapted to store and analyze photographic or video feedback from cameras 34, 37. Display screen 32 is adapted to display photographic or video feedback from cameras 34, 37.
As shown in FIG. 6, during the initial setup of the apparatus, user 17 must first choose from menu 65 whether to operate the apparatus in arcade mode or training mode. If the user chooses to operate the apparatus in arcade mode, menu screen 66 prompts the user to select the length of each round, the number of rounds, and length of rest time between rounds. The user can also reset punch records, or clear the data saved on the processor from previous use. These preferences are programmed prior to use in arcade mode so subsequent users of the arcade game will not have the flexibility to extend play without access to the setup menu screen 66. For example, the initial user may designate the maximum number of rounds per payment if the apparatus is used as an arcade game. The initial user can also restrict access to setup menu screen 66 if the apparatus is used as an arcade game.
If a user elects to operate the apparatus in training mode, she is then prompted to make setup choices on menu screen 68. The user must select the length of each training round, the number of rounds, and the length of rest time between rounds. Unlike the arcade mode, training mode allows a user to change these preferences throughout use, as indicated in FIG. 11. The user can also reset punch records on setup menu screen 66 or 68, which clears the data saved on the processor from previous use.
Following the initial setup menu 66, 68, the user may customize weight classes or pad names by proceeding through menu screen 69. Display screen 70, shown in FIG. 7, allows the user to designate ranges and names for weight classes. The default weight classes are based on IBF & WBA weight classes for 2005. Since boxing weight classes change, this feature can be disabled or updated. The default classes are as follows:
Men's:

- Strawweight/Mini Flyweight: Up to 105 lb
- Junior Flyweight: 105.01-108 lb
- Flyweight: 108.01-112 lb
- Super Flyweight/Junior Bantam Weight: 112.01-115 lb
- Bantamweight: 115.01-118 lb
- Super Bantamweight/Junior Featherweight: 118.01-122 lb
- Featherweight: 122.01-126 lb
- Super Featherweight/Junior Lightweight: 126.01-130 lb
- Lightweight: 130.01-135 lb
- Super Lightweight/Junior Welterweight: 135.01-140 lb
- Welterweight: 140.01-147 lb
- Super Welterweight/Junior Middleweight: 147.01-154 lb
- Middleweight: 154.01-160 lb
- Super Middleweight: 160.01-168 lb
- Light heavyweight: 168.01-175 lb
- Cruiserweight: 175.01-200 lb
- Heavyweight: over 200 lb

Women's:

- Strawweight: Up to 102 lb
- Mini Flyweight: Up to 105 lb
- Junior Flyweight: 105.01-108 lb
- Flyweight: 108.01-112 lb
- Super Flyweight/Junior Bantam Weight: 112.01-115 lb
- Bantamweight: 115.01-118 lb
- Super Bantamweight/Junior Featherweight: 118.01-122 lb
- Featherweight: 122.01-126 lb
- Super Featherweight/Junior Lightweight: 126.01-130 lb
- Lightweight: 130.01-135 lb
- Super Lightweight/Junior Welterweight: 135.01-140 lb
- Welterweight: 140.01-147 lb
- Junior Middleweight: 147.01-154 lb
- Middleweight: 154.01-160 lb
- Super Middleweight: 160.01-168 lb
- Light heavyweight: 168.01-175 lb
- Heavyweight: over 175 lb

In addition to customizing weight class ranges and names, user 17 can customize the names of sections 21-29 on simulated body element 16. As shown in FIG. 8, the user can designate names for sections 21-29 on menu screen 71, 72 and 73. The user may input any name for each section, as he is not limited to predetermined name options. These names are used for programming combinations and analyzing performance. The arcade pad setup menu screen 71 provides eight fields for naming sections 21-29. For example, a punch to section 21 may be called a “high right”. In a preferred embodiment, the arcade pad names need not be as detailed as the training pad names, because an arcade game user is not likely to require as sophisticated an analysis as an athlete in training. Training setup menu screens 72 and 73 provide for more particular names specific to a right handed or left handed user.
A user can also program a combination of punches that he desires to perform and subsequently analyze. As shown in FIG. 9, the user selects handedness and chooses a sequence of moves from the list he just created on menu screens 71, 72, or 73 shown in FIG. 8.
Following initial setup the user may provide input prior to each use of the apparatus. This input is optional and serves to further personalize a training session. If the user is operating the apparatus in arcade mode, he is prompted with the arcade main menu screen as show in FIG. 10. The user may input his name, height, gender, and weight on menu screen 74. For more reliable feedback, users are categorized in various weight classes. This embodiment provides for input of the user's weight and subsequently categorizes the user into weight classes. Note that menu screen 74 does not allow an arcade game user to customize round length, number of rounds, or rest time between rounds. As discussed, in the preferred embodiment, such customization can only occur during initial setup using menu screen 66 as shown in FIG. 6.
A similar main menu, as shown in FIG. 11, requests user input prior to every use of the apparatus in training mode. By utilizing menu screen 76 shown in FIG. 11, a user has the option to select a name from menu 79. The preferences for each name, as entered on setup menu screen 80 in FIG. 12, will automatically load prior to training. Alternately, a user may save his preferences on a data storage device such as a magnetized card or computer disk. The present invention may include a user input device such as a card reader or disk drive capable of retrieving and loading the data stored on the device. Again, this information will automatically load prior to training.
If the user does not have stored preferences, he can choose the “New Boxer” option 77 as shown in FIG. 11, which will lead him to menu screen 80 as seen in FIG. 12. As discussed, this invention allows each user to store his preferences for future use. As seen in FIG. 12, a user can enter his name, height, weight, gender, handedness, and combinations, and he can save this input to expedite subsequent training sessions.
Unlike a user of the arcade mode, a user of the training mode must decide whether to engage in rounds of training or practice particular combinations. This choice is made on menu screen 76 in FIG. 11. Also unlike a user of the arcade mode, a user of the training mode may adjust round length, number of rounds, and rest time between rounds prior to each use on menu screen 78, as shown in FIG. 11. A user of the training mode need not return to the initial setup screen to make these changes.
Analysis and Display of Results
Processor 30 of the preferred embodiment is programmed to perform several functions besides the setup functions discussed above. Processor 30 is programmed to receive impact force data from the sensors connected to sections 21-29 on body element 16. Processor 30 then analyzes the signals from the sensors, and provides an output with the results on screen 32 or printer 33. Processor 30 is also capable of storing input and data. As used herein, “input” includes information received from the user via an input device 31 and video or photographs from camera 34 or camera 37. As used herein, “data” includes information received from sensors 52 a-52 h of sections 21-29.
Sensors 52 a-52 h record the force of each strike and processor 30 analyzes the force and frequency data to report the results. As used herein, “results” are the product of the processor's analysis and may be the subject of reports or used to critique user's performance.
Results may include the impact force as a function of time, impact force as a function of location, degree of impact force, location of impact force, and average degree of all impact forces. In the preferred embodiment, the degree of impact force is provided in pounds per punch. The results may further include the user's most forceful punch, least forceful punch, and the time at which the user beings to exhibit fatigue.
Reports are available in graphic and tabular form, as indicated in FIGS. 13-18, and as real-time monitoring or as a report following the user's session. In addition, reports may include photographic displays utilizing data from cameras 34, 37. Before a round begins, the user may select the graph she wishes to view on display screen 32 during the round, or a default view will be programmed for her.
Results from operation of apparatus 15 in arcade mode may be displayed on screen 32 in real time, as seen in FIG. 13. The display in FIG. 13 reports time remaining in the round 84, the number of the current round in which the user is participating 85 , the force of the last punch 86, the force of the strongest punch 88, the user's name 89 and weight class 90. In addition, the impact force as a function of time and location is displayed graphically 81-83. In FIG. 13, the impact force as a function of time is displayed 81, 82 for two particular sections 22, 23. A round total graph 83 demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time. Although results for only two sections 22, 23 are displayed in this embodiment, it is contemplated that results for one or more sections can also be displayed as an alternative. Results from each section may be viewed on an individual graph, or results from several sections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable. The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 71, as shown in FIG. 8.
Real time results for a training session are displayed in a similar fashion, as demonstrated in FIG. 14. Like the arcade mode, the training mode results comprise remaining time 98, round number 99, force of last punch 100, force of strongest punch 101, user name 102 and weight class 103. In FIG. 14, the impact force as a function of time is shown 91-96 for six sections 21-26. A round total graph 97 demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time. Although results for six sections are displayed in FIG. 14, it is contemplated that results for one or more sections may be displayed as an alternative. Results from each section may be viewed on an individual graph, or results from several sections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable. The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 72-73 shown in FIG. 8.
FIG. 15 shows real time analysis of a training combination. As discussed, a user can program a combination of punches that he desires to perform and subsequently analyze. As shown in FIG. 9, the user selects handedness and chooses a sequence of moves from the list he just created on menu screens 71, 72, or 73 as shown in FIG. 8. The user may choose an unlimited number of moves, although only five are show in FIG. 9. The display in FIG. 15 reports the number of remaining repetitions of the combination 104, the user name 105 and weight class 106, the current combination 108, and total number of repetitions the user intends to complete 109. The display also reports the speed of the current repetition 116, the average time it takes the user to complete the current combination 117, and the user's fastest time to complete the current combination 118. The display also reports the force of the user's strongest punch in the current combination 119, the average force of the strongest punches of the user in all attempts of the combination 120, and the force of the user's strongest punch in all attempts of the combination 121. In addition, the display reports the average force of the user's punches in the current combination 122, the average force of all punches of the user in all attempts of the combination 123, and the highest average force of the user from all attempts of the combination 124. Finally, FIG. 15 displays graphic feedback similar to that in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. The impact force as a function of time is shown 110-115 for six sections 21-26. Although results for just six sections are displayed in FIG. 15, it is contemplated that results one or more sections may be displayed as an alternative. Results from each section may be viewed on an individual graph 110-115, or results from several sections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable. The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 72-73 shown in FIG. 8.
In addition to real time reporting, apparatus 15 also provides summary feedback. The summary reports may appear graphically or in tabular form. They may appear on display screen 32 at the end of a round or at the end of a training or arcade session, or they may be printed on printer 33. Processor 30 is adapted to store all results, analysis, and reports for later retrieval.
The reports of results serve as a training tool by highlighting the user's strengths and weaknesses. For example, if the reports indicate that the user's least forceful or weakest punches are directed at the mid-torso section, the user may utilize this information to direct his training towards increasing the force of his mid-torso punch. The reports further identify the amount of time between a user's strikes. Therefore, a user can determine how fast and accurate his combinations are, again allowing him to adjust his training to focus on combinations that are not as fast and accurate as desired. Since part of a boxer's training involves studying an opponent's technique, a boxer should know his opponent's weaknesses. The present invention allows the boxer to concentrate on his opponent's weak areas and provides reliable feedback on the boxer's progress.
FIG. 16 provides an example of arcade round summary reporting shown on display screen 32, and available for printing on printer 33 by selecting print option 146 on the display screen. This display includes the remaining rest time between rounds 125, the number of the round just completed 126, and the user name 128 and weight class 129. The display also includes the number of punches in the round just completed 133 the record number of punches for the current weight class at the same time during the same round number 134, and the name of the user holding that record 135. This display also includes the force of the user's strongest punch during the round just completed 136, the force of the strongest punch of all users in the current weight class and in the round number just completed 138, and the name of the user in the current weight class who punched with the greatest force during the round number just completed 139. This display also includes the average force of all the current user's punches for the round just completed 140, and the highest average force of punches for the current weight class during the same round 141, in addition to the name of the user in the current weight class with the strongest average force of punches for the round number just completed 142. This display also includes the number of punches per minute for the current user in the round just completed 143 and the record highest number of punches per minute in for all users the current weight class in the round number just completed 144, in addition to the name of the user holding the record 145. The summary display includes graphical data as well as the numerical feedback just discussed. The impact force as a function of time is displayed 130-131 for two particular sections 21, 22. A round total graph 132 demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time. Although results for only two sections are displayed in FIG. 16, it is contemplated that results for one or more sections may be displayed as an alternative. Again, results from each section may be viewed on an individual graph 130-131, or results from several sections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable 132. The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 71 shown in FIG. 8.
FIG. 17 provides another example of summary reporting shown on display screen 32, available for printing on printer 33. A user may customize summary reports by choosing which results to display. The display in FIG. 17 includes the remaining rest time between rounds 148, the number of the round just completed 149, and the user name 150 and weight class 151. The display also includes the number of punches by the user in the round just completed 160, the current user's record number of punches for all attempts of the round number just completed 161, and the record number of punches for all users in the current weight class in the round number just completed 162. This display also includes the force of the strongest punch by the user in the round just completed 163, the force of the strongest punch of the current user in all attempts of the round number just completed 164, and the record force of all punches for the users in the current weight class in the round number just completed 165. This display also includes the average force of all punches of the user for the round just completed 166, and the highest average force of punches of the user in previous attempts of the round just completed 168, in addition to the strongest average force of punches for users in the current weight class in the round number just completed 169. This display also includes the number of punches per minute for the current user in the round just completed 170 and the highest number of punches per minute in the user's previous rounds, in addition to the highest number of punches per minute in the user's previous attempts of the round just completed 171, and the record number of punches per minute for all users in the current weight class in the round number just completed 172. The summary display includes graphical data as well as numerical feedback just discussed. The impact force as a function of time is shown for all sections 21-29. A round total graph 159 demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time. Although results for six sections are displayed in this embodiment 152-157, it is contemplated that results for fewer sections can also be displayed as an alternative. Results from each section may be viewed on an individual graph 152-157, or results from several sections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable 159. The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 72-73 shown in FIG. 8.
The present invention is capable of tabular reporting, as seen in FIG. 18. Table 173 presents force and time data. Column 178 reports the time. Column 179 reports the force of all punches at each time. Column 180 reports the force of all punches received on the left side of body element 16, or sections 22, 24, and 26, at the corresponding time in Column 178. Column 181 reports the force of all punches received on the right side of body element 16, or section 21, 23, and 25. Column 182 reports the force of all punches received on the left and right side of the head area, or sections 21 and 22. Column 183 reports the force of all punches received on the left and right side of the mid-torso area, or sections 23 and 24. Column 184 reports the force of all punches received on the lower torso area, or sections 25 and 26. In addition to the tabular report, these data are graphically depicted in graphs 174, 175, and 176 of FIG. 19. Graph 175 depicts all punches in round 1 as a function of time. Graph 175 depicts the force of all punches in round 1 as a function of time and location per side. Graph 176 depicts the force of all punches in round two as a function of time and location per region. FIG. 18 further demonstrates the variety of analyses processor 30 is capable of performing.
Other reports may include the following results:
Overall Data Summary

- Total Number of Punches
- Strongest Punch
- Weakest Punch
- Average Pounds Per Punch
- Average Time Between Punches

Specific Hit Spot Summary

- Upper Right
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
- Upper Left
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
- Middle Right
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
- Middle Left
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
- Lower Right
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
- Lower Left
  - Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X
  - Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X

Strongest Punch Summary

- Force: X
- Total Number of Punches Occurring at Force X: Y
- Location and Time of Punches Occurring at that Force (i.e. Upper Right @
- Time X:XX, Lower Left @ Time X:XX):

Weakest Punch Summary

- Force: X
- Total Number of Punches Occurring at Force X: Y
- Location and Time of Punches Occurring at that Force (i.e. Upper Right @ Time X:XX, Lower Left @ Time X:XX):

The user can also print a report of summary statistics, or these summary statistics can be saved and accessed later.
Following the user's training session, the user can toggle between 8 different preset graphs and select a custom view:

- 1. Hit Output {Default Graph} (See FIG. 17: Graph “Date Output Round 1”)
- 2. Right Side v. Left Side (See FIG. 17: Graph “Data Output Round 1”)
- 3. Head v. Middle Torso v. Lower Torso (See FIG. 17: Graph “Data Output Round 1 Head v. Middle Torso v. Lower Torso”)
- 4. Hits on Right Side Only
- 5. Hits on Left Side Only
- 6. Hits to Head Only
- 7. Hits to Middle Torso Only
- 8. Hits to Lower Torso Only
- 9. A custom graph will allow the user to select from the eight different sections, choosing as few as one section to as many as eight sections.

The user can toggle between rounds or view multiple rounds on one graph, where each round is shown in a different color on the same graph. As shown in FIG. 18, graph 175 displays the force of right handed punches in one color and the force of left handed punches in another, both as a function of time. The user may choose to print graphs or may save the data to view later.
The present invention expressly contemplates that many changes and modifications may be made. Therefore, while several preferred forms of the boxing training apparatus have been shown and described, and several modifications thereof discussed, persons skilled in this art will readily appreciate that various additional changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A training apparatus comprising:

a simulated body element adapted to receive impact forces from a user;

said body element having a head region, a mid-torso rib region and a lower-torso kidney region;

each of said regions having a right section and a left section and each of said head region and said mid-torso region having a center section;

each of said sections comprising at least one impact sensor adapted to sense an impact force to said section and to provide an impact signal as a function of said impact force;

a processor communicating with said sensors;

an input device adapted to obtain input from said user and to provide an input signal;

said input device communicating with said processor; and

said processor adapted to receive said impact signal and said input signal and to provide an output that is a function of said impact signal and said input signal.

2. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein said input is selected from a group consisting of user name, user gender, user height, user weight, number of rounds, length of rounds and length of time between rounds.

3. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein said processor is further adapted to store said impact signal and said input signal.

4. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein said output is selected from a group consisting of impact force as a function of time, impact force as a function of section, degree of impact force, location of impact force, and average degree of impact forces.

5. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising a display screen communicating with said processor and adapted to display said output to said user.

6. The apparatus set forth in claim 5, wherein said display of said output is in a graphical form or in a tabular form.

7. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising a camera communicating with said processor and configured and arranged to photograph or film said user.

8. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising a printer communicating with said processor and adapted to print said output.

9. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising a frame supporting said body element.

10. The apparatus set forth in claim 9, wherein said frame comprises a platform adapted to support said user.

11. The apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein said frame comprises an element adapted to support said user when said user is on said platform.

12. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein said input comprises a combination of punches.