WO2003068339A1 - Movement detection apparatus and method of use thereof - Google Patents

Movement detection apparatus and method of use thereof Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2003068339A1
WO2003068339A1 PCT/GB2003/000556 GB0300556W WO03068339A1 WO 2003068339 A1 WO2003068339 A1 WO 2003068339A1 GB 0300556 W GB0300556 W GB 0300556W WO 03068339 A1 WO03068339 A1 WO 03068339A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
movement
user
detected
movement detection
detection means
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2003/000556
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Christopher Worrall
Christopher Braisby
Original Assignee
Christopher Worrall
Christopher Braisby
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Christopher Worrall, Christopher Braisby filed Critical Christopher Worrall
Priority to AU2003209971A priority Critical patent/AU2003209971A1/en
Publication of WO2003068339A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003068339A1/en

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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0021Tracking a path or terminating locations
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/18Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for skiing
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0003Analysing the course of a movement or motion sequences during an exercise or trainings sequence, e.g. swing for golf or tennis
    • A63B24/0006Computerised comparison for qualitative assessment of motion sequences or the course of a movement
    • A63B2024/0012Comparing movements or motion sequences with a registered reference
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0021Tracking a path or terminating locations
    • A63B2024/0025Tracking the path or location of one or more users, e.g. players of a game
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B71/0619Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
    • A63B71/0622Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
    • A63B2071/0625Emitting sound, noise or music
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B71/0619Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
    • A63B71/0622Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
    • A63B2071/0625Emitting sound, noise or music
    • A63B2071/0627Emitting sound, noise or music when used improperly, e.g. by giving a warning
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/80Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
    • A63B2220/83Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor characterised by the position of the sensor
    • A63B2220/836Sensors arranged on the body of the user
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/50Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to movement detection apparatus and a method of use thereof, and particularly but not exclusively to movement detection apparatus suitable for use in alpine sports.
  • the device could be used for a variety of different sports, particularly alpine sports, where the order and method of movement of a part or parts of' the participants body is important for undertaking the sport and for attaining a certain level of proficiency in the sport.
  • the movement detection apparatus of the present invention could be used for informing a golfer of his foot/leg positions when taking a swing at a ball, for informing a rider of their leg movement in horse riding dressage, for informing a user of leg movement in snowboarding and/or the like.
  • foot and leg movement and particularly foot inversion (turning of the sole of the foot inwardly towards the midline of the user's body), foot eversion (turning the sole of the foot outwardly away from the midline of the user's body) and subsequent passive internal and external leg rotation (rotation of the leg towards and away from the midline of the user's body respectively), are important for allowing the user to control speed, to turn and to stop.
  • ski devices which can be fitted to the user's skis or boots and which are able to detect the user's foot or leg pressure using pressure sensors.
  • US5878378 discloses a sensor for location in a ski boot which senses forward pressure of a user's foot in a ski boot.
  • such sensors may provide the user with an indication relating to their stance, balance or current position in a fore-aft plane
  • such devices are of only limited use since they do not detect the order, method and/or degree of angular movement (particularly lateral (foot inversion) and/or medial (foot eversion) inclination of the skis, boots or feet) undertaken by the skier, as provided by the present invention, which is/are important in allowing the skier to improve.
  • movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, and wherein in addition to detecting movement, said movement detection means is capable of identifying one or more characteristics of the detected movement.
  • the movement characteristics include any or any combination of the order or sequence of movement, the direction of movement, the speed of movement, the rate of change of movement, the type of movement, the degree of movement, the length of time of a particular detected movement, the angle of movement and/or the like.
  • the detected movements are recorded and stored in memory forming part of or associated with the apparatus. All detected movements can be stored in memory or only detected movements meeting pre-determined conditions, such as a required direction of movement, level or threshold range, can be stored, the remaining movement data being disregarded.
  • communication means are provided in the apparatus for transmitting and/or receiving data between said movement detection means and said user or a remote electronic device, such as a personal computer (PC), thereby providing feedback to the user as to the type of movement the user is making and/or whether said detected movement or movements are appropriate.
  • a remote electronic device such as a personal computer (PC)
  • signalling means are provided which signal to a user if pre-determined conditions relating to said movement and/or characteristic(s) of movement are met.
  • the signalling means can provide an indication to a user as to whether the movement and/or characteristic of movement which the user is making or has made is appropriate or inappropriate.
  • micro-processing means are provided which process said movement data.
  • the micro-processing means determine whether said pre-determined conditions relating to the movement have been met.
  • the pre-determined conditions can be pre-programmed into hardware or software in or associated with the micro-processing units.
  • a plurality of pre-programmed values or ranges relating to said movement characteristics are stored in the apparatus and a comparison is made by said micro-processing means between said pre-stored data and said newly detected data. If pre-determined conditions are met based on this comparison, the signalling means are actuated.
  • the movement data is downloaded to a personal computer (PC) for analysis.
  • PC personal computer
  • This downloading of data can take place substantially simultaneously to the data being detected, i.e. movements are detected and communicated via communication means to a remote PC for viewing by a coach or third party, or the stored data can be downloaded at some point in the future to a PC for analysis.
  • the movement detection means includes any or any combination of a pendulum, accelerometer, tilt sensor/indicator, angle indicator, electronic/manual inclinometers, gyroscope and/or the like.
  • the movement detection means functions by providing at least one member which is movable relative to a fixed point or points and this movement is monitored and/or measured to provide movement data.
  • a housing containing said movement detection means is provided on or adjacent a part of the user's body, clothing and/or sports equipment for which movement is required to be detected.
  • two movement detection means are provided, one on each foot, boot, ski or leg of the user.
  • a micro-processing unit can be provided in or adjacent each housing containing the movement detection means.
  • a micro-processing unit is provided separately to the movement detection means.
  • the micro-processing units and/ or communication means communicate with the movement detection means via any or any combination of cable, infra-red, radio frequency, blue-chip technology and/ or the like.
  • the apparatus is provided with control means for allowing the apparatus to be switched on/standby/off or parameters and/or pre-determined conditions to be input or adjusted by the manufacturer and/or user.
  • the movement detection means detects characteristics of movement between one or more pre-determined threshold values.
  • the pre-determined threshold values include a minimum movement value, below which no movement is detected and/or signal is actuated from the signalling means and a maximum movement value, above which no movement is detected and/or signal is actuated.
  • the threshold levels can be set and/or adjusted, typically by the user and/or manufacturer via the control panel. This allows user's of different skill levels in a particular sport or event using the apparatus to set a threshold level which is suitable for their skill level.
  • the threshold values set for the movement detection means (i.e., for foot inversion) of an advanced skier may typically result in the device being set to a higher threshold value than the value set for a less advanced skier.
  • the rate of change of movement being detected by the movement detection means is signalled via the signalling means.
  • the rate of change of movement thereafter is signalled to a user.
  • An increase in the angle of the user's skis throughout a turn is desirable and therefore the ability to signal this increase in angle as a rate of change of movement is advantageous.
  • asymmetric threshold levels are set in the device.
  • the threshold levels may differ in one direction relative to another direction. This allows the threshold level in one device on one ski, foot and/or boot to be reached prior to the threshold level in the device on the other ski, foot and/or boot being reached. A signal can then be initiated to inform the user of the detected movement accordingly.
  • the movement detection means includes a pendulum contained within the housing, and angular rotation of said pendulum is detected and recorded by electronic circuitry provided therewith.
  • a viscose fluid such as oil and/or the like, is provided in said housing, thereby providing a dampening effect of said pendulum movement such that normal vibrations associated with the user performing the sport can be accounted for or dampened.
  • the signalling means provides an audio, kinaesthetic and/or visual indication to a user.
  • This indication can signal that movement has been detected, that the movement detected was correct, that the movement detected was incorrect and/or the type or degree of movement detected.
  • the signal(s) can be intermittent or continuous until further movement is detected.
  • the signal can be continuous if correct movement or movement in a particular direction or through a particular angle is continuous.
  • the audio signalling means includes one or more ear pieces worn by the user in or adjacent to their ear or ears.
  • the audio indication/ signal(s) can include different sounds for indication of correct or incorrect movements or the type and/or degree of movement, such as a spoken message, one or more beeps or different tones or frequencies of sounds.
  • speaker means can be provided on the user's clothing, body or sport's equipment.
  • the visual signalling means includes a display, which appears in the user's eye wear, such as a helmet visor, goggles or glasses.
  • the visual signal/indication can include a text message, icon and/or the like.
  • the visual, kinaesthetic or audio indication appears, is felt or sounds adjacent the eye, ear or other appropriate location corresponding to the side of the user's body movement where the movement was detected.
  • movement of the user's left foot will result in one or more signals being generated in or adjacent to the user's left ear or eye.
  • the indication can be provided at any required location on the user's body, clothing of sports equipment.
  • the housing containing movement detection means is provided on one or both skies, ski binding, boot, footwear, clothing and/or the like.
  • the ski binding is defined as the units which are attached to the skis and which the ski boots clip onto /are secured thereto.
  • the movement detection means can be retrofitted to the user's equipment or clothing or can be provided as an integral part thereof.
  • the units can be detachably attached using any or any combination of clips, stitching, screws, adhesive, Velcro and/or secured via any other conventional means to the user or user's equipment.
  • the power supply for the apparatus and components thereof is typically provided via one or more batteries, which can be rechargeable if required. Alternatively, or in addition, at least part of the apparatus can be powered by solar power.
  • the movement detection apparatus is able to detect lateral and medial inclination movements of the feet, footwear. sports equipment, skis or boots; the order and/or method in which such movements are made and/or the angle or degree to which these movements are made.
  • the device detects leg adduction movement (horizontal, vertical or diagonal distance) between the feet.
  • switch means such as a microswitch or switches can be located on the medial (inner side) of the user's leg(s) such that when the legs are brought into contact with each other the switches are actuated and a signal is generated to inform the user of the movement.
  • a device allowing the horizontal distance of the items of sports equipment, parts of the user's body, skis, boots, knees, ankles, feet and/or the like to be measured and informed to the user can be provided.
  • movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting and recording movements associated with a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, said movement detection means including at least one member which is movable relative to a fixed point or points of said movement detection means to allow the detection of movement, micro-processing means for processing said recorded movements and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, signalling means are actuated to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of the detected movement have been met.
  • At least one movable member is a pendulum which moves relative to a fixed housing.
  • the movement of the pendulum is detected by electronic circuitry provided in said housing.
  • electronic circuitry provided in said housing.
  • a method of using movement detection apparatus including the steps of detecting one or more characteristics of movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, processing said detected movement data and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, actuating signalling means to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of said detected movement have been met.
  • the microprocessor of the present invention analyses and interprets movement data and transmits data to the user relating to one or more movements detected and analysed.
  • the detected movement data is typically compared against preprogrammed conditions prior to the user being informed of said characteristics of movement.
  • Timer means can be included in the apparatus for measuring the length of time certain movements are detected for.
  • the present invention provides a means of detecting the order, method and/or the degree of movement, whether correct or incorrect, and rapidly signalling to the user to inform them of this.
  • the user is provided with substantially instant feedback for any movement made, thereby allowing the user to quickly improve their performance, thereby providing greater enjoyment to the user.
  • the detected movement data can be forwarded to a PC or other communications device at that time or at some point in the future.
  • the advantages of the present invention are that the user can use the apparatus at their convenience, thereby giving the user the choice of whether to attend ski school or hire an instructor, which can be expensive.
  • the apparatus is discrete and relatively few components are required at different locations to provide information relating to a broad range of movement.
  • the apparatus will help to improve the user's skill level by informing them of when efficient or inefficient movements have been made.
  • the device can assist in replacing inefficient movements ingrained in the user with efficient movements, thereby allowing the user's skill level to improve.
  • the apparatus can be supplemented by use of an instruction book, compact disc, digital video disc and/or the like.
  • Figures 1A-1D illustrate a skier undertaking a right turn in an inefficient manner
  • Figures 2A-2D illustrate a skier undertaking a right turn in an efficient manner
  • Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a skier wearing a movement detection apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a simplified diagram showing a movement detection device
  • Figures 5A-5H illustrate movement of the pendulum of the detection device in undertaking the turn shown in Figures 1A- 1D and 2A-2D;
  • Figure 6 illustrates a further embodiment of the present invention showing asymmetrical threshold levels
  • Figure 7 is a simplified block diagram of a micro-processing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS 8a and 8b illustrate a ski racer's path taken down a race course and a comparison of two racer's paths taken down a course respectively using the apparatus of the present invention and a global positioning system (GPS); and
  • GPS global positioning system
  • Figure 9 is an example of a graph plot which can be generated using data provided by apparatus of the present invention.
  • the present invention in one embodiment as a training tool to allow a user to improve their footwork when undertaking a right turn during skiing.
  • the speed at which the skier's proficiency improves is largely due the skier's foot movements. Once the skier understands which foot movements are efficient and which are inefficient and the sequence of foot movements required to ski proficiently, the skier should make rapid progress.
  • the invention of the present application in one embodiment provides instant feedback to help the skier make this progress.
  • FIGS 1A-1D there is illustrated a sequence of foot movements typically performed by a novice skier to initiate a right turn.
  • the outer foot 2 is typically steered in the direction of the turn.
  • This movement causes leg 7 to actively rotate in an internal manner (rotation of the femur in the hip socket) with the foot becoming slightly everted in the process.
  • the fall line an imaginary line corresponding to the most direct route down hill
  • feet 2, 3 remain everted with legs 5, 7 both internally rotated.
  • both skis are trying to turn in opposite directions to each other which is both tiring and the opposite of what the user should be doing if undertaking an efficient turn.
  • foot 3 and leg 5 work in a cooperative manner with foot 2 and leg 7 to allow turning of the feet/legs in the same direction, as shown in figure 1 C.
  • foot 3 slightly inverted and leg 5 externally rotated, and foot 2 everted and leg 7 internally rotated, the turn can be completed, as shown in figure ID.
  • FIGS. 2A-2D there is illustrated a sequence of foot movements which show a different and typically more efficient approach to initiating a right turn to that shown in Figures 1A-1D.
  • the inner foot 202 is slightly lifted to reduce the pressure on the ground/snow, inverted and pulled towards foot 201.
  • the action of lifting and inverting the foot causes a shift in weight/balance to foot 201 , causing internal rotation of leg 203 in a passive manner (as a result of foot movement) .
  • the action of pulling foot 202 towards foot 201 through leg adduction enables balance to be maintained more easily on the outer ski 201 whilst allowing the skier to invert foot 202 to an acute angle with the slope 207.
  • skis 205 and 206 reach the fall line, as shown in figure 2B, the skis are parallel and foot 202 continues to invert. This causes foot 201 and leg 203 to evert and internally rotate in a passive manner. As the skis pass through the fall-line, both skis remain parallel with the shaped edges of the skis "biting" the snow surface in an efficient manner, thereby fully utilising the design characteristics (i.e., sidecut) of the ski.
  • the sidecut is the difference in width of a ski at its tip (front) , tail (rear) and middle. Skis are typically wider at the tip and tail in comparison to the middle of the ski. In general, the more side-cut a ski has the sharper it will turn.
  • the movement detection apparatus of the present invention is required.
  • FIG 3 there is illustrated a skier 102 using movement detection apparatus according to the present invention.
  • the skier has skis 4 and 6 with boots 8 and 10 fitted thereto respectively.
  • the boots 8, 10 of the skier are fitted with movement detection devices 12, 12' and said devices communicate with micro-processing unit 14.
  • the microprocessing unit 14 is connected to a head set 16 located around the user's neck/head.
  • Movement detection device 12 can be provided at any point on the boot, ski or binding and the micro-processing unit 14 can be provided in each ear piece.
  • Each ear piece will typically have a control panel for adjusting the volume of the signal generated, adjusting threshold levels, selecting the type of turn to be detected and/or the like.
  • the head set 16 includes ear pieces 18 and 20 worn adjacent the user's ears 22 and 24 respectively.
  • the ear pieces, microprocessing unit 14 and movement detection device 12 communicate with each other via radio waves (RF) or via Bluetooth Chip Technology.
  • FIG 4 there is shown a schematic representation of movement detection device 12 according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a housing 104 and a pendulum 106 located therein.
  • An oil 108 or other viscose fluid surrounds the pendulum 106 and acts to dampen/filter out vibrations associated with skiing on snow of varying conditions.
  • the pendulum 106 is freely rotatable through +/- 45 degrees within the housing about pivot point 110. It is noted that the pendulum could be rotatable through 360 degrees if required.
  • Electronic circuitry and a battery powered unit is provided in compartment 112 of the housing and communicates with the pendulum.
  • the electronic circuitry measures and records the angular rotation of the pendulum at pre-determined time intervals (i.e., 100 times per second) .
  • the detection device 12 is provided with a transceiver 105 to transmit and receive data from and/or to the micro-processing unit 14 and/or other movement detection means 12 provided on the skier.
  • the angular rotation readings/data are transmitted from the transceiver 105 to a transceiver 17 provided in communication with the micro-processing unit 14 located around the neck of the skier via RF.
  • the micro-processing unit 14 is provided with memory in which pre-determined threshold values and received movement data can be stored.
  • the micro-processing unit is provided with a suitable port, such that when the skier has completed an outing/session, the unit can be connected to or communicate with a personal computer (PC), thereby allowing the readings stored in the memory to be downloaded to the PC.
  • PC personal computer
  • the downloaded data can be manipulated by appropriate software to provide a record or display of the skier's movements on the ski slopes during the outing.
  • the micro-processing unit determines, typically based on pre-programmed data, whether to actuate an audio signal in one or both of the ear pieces 18, 20.
  • the audio signal informs the user whether the movement detected by the device 12 is efficient or inefficient for the direction of turn.
  • the signal is received in the ear on the side of the body of the foot that moved.
  • FIGS 5A-5H there is illustrated simplified views of the pendulum movement in movement detection device 12" during certain foot movements.
  • Figure 5A shows pendulum 106 at rest when no foot movement is detected by device 12".
  • the dotted lines 122 and 124 illustrate threshold values pre-set in the device. Movement of the pendulum between these threshold values does not result in data being passed to the micro-processing unit 14. Alternatively any data detected and passed to the micro-processing unit 14 is not transmitted to an ear piece for signalling. Movement detected between threshold values 122 and 124 is typically as a result of vibration of the skies across rough ice or snow, and thus this data is discounted.
  • Upper and/or varying threshold limits can also be programmed in the unit or the degree of sensitivity of the movement of the pendulum can be changed to allow for different skill levels of the user.
  • the angular movement is detected by electronic circuitry and data relating to the movement is transmitted to the microprocessing unit 14.
  • the degree of movement is typically recorded, i.e., the angular rotation of the pendulum and/or the time that the pendulum is in a particular position is recorded.
  • the direction of rotation of the pendulum is also signalled to the micro-processing unit, and this determines the direction of the turn and the foot movements required to complete that turn.
  • Each detection device typically has specific address tags associated with the data generated therefrom, thereby allowing the micro-processing unit 14 to recognise which detection device the data has been received from.
  • Unit 14 detects the signal from unit 12" and transmits an audio signal to ear piece 18 adjacent the user's right ear 22 to inform the user that the movement made has been correct or efficient.
  • the signal is maintained providing that foot inversion is constant or until the pendulum has reached a given threshold. If the user starts to perform an other action, such as reverting foot and unit 12" to a horizontal position and/or moving the left foot and unit 12', this change is detected.
  • Unit 12' is switched on and a signal is transmitted to micro-processing unit 14 which actuates an incorrect audio signal in the user's left ear piece 20 informing the user of the mistake.
  • Figures 5E and 5F show detection of incorrect initiation of the right turn in Figure 1A.
  • the left foot is steered (leg rotation and foot eversion) towards the right as shown by arrow 128 in figure 5F, which causes pendulum 106 to swing to the right.
  • a signal is transmitted from unit 12' to micro-processing unit 14 which results in actuation of an incorrect audio signal in left ear piece 20.
  • Figures 5G and 5H show substantially simultaneous movement of unit 12' and unit 12" during initiation of a right turn.
  • both units signal to the micro-processing unit to actuate or cancel out a signal in both ear pieces, thereby informing the user that a simultaneous action has taken place.
  • no signal can be provided when a simultaneous action has taken place.
  • threshold levels in the left and right foot sensors differ.
  • the threshold levels in each of the devices are asymmetrical. For example, threshold level 2 is closer to the resting position of pendulum 306" than threshold level 1 in device 312", and threshold level 3 is closer to the resting position of pendulum 306' than threshold level 4 in device 312'.
  • pendulum 306' typically reaches threshold level 3 before pendulum 306" reaches threshold level 1.
  • threshold 1 should be reached prior to threshold level 3.
  • the microprocessing unit can detect the direction the feet are moving in and the order in which the threshold levels are reached in the different devices, thereby making the appropriate indication to the user as to whether the foot movements detected are efficient or inefficient for a particular type of turn.
  • the micro-processing unit is typically pre-programmed with average vibration data, such that a significant deviation from this average is detected as movement of the boot or ski in a particular direction.
  • the direction of movement is detected by the initiation of a positive or negative signal from the pendulum movement, depending on which side of the mean vibration point the pendulum swings.
  • FIG. 7 An example of a simplified central processing unit 414 is shown in figure 7.
  • Left and right foot sensors 416 and 418 respectively are provided with transceivers which communicate with a transceiver 420 in unit 414.
  • Interface electronics 422 connect the transceiver 420 to microprocessor 424, and microprocessor 424 decodes the signals received from the left and right foot sensors 416 and 418 and transmits appropriate signals to the left and right earpieces 426 and 428 respectively via output circuitry 430.
  • the central processing unit is battery powered by rechargeable battery unit 432.
  • the headset can be provided as a separate unit sewn into the user's clothes, provided on a helmet and/or the like.
  • the housings of the units are typically made from a robust, weatherproof material, such as plastic, metal and/or similar and which typically has minimal radio frequency interference.
  • a micro-processing unit can be provided in each of the boot units and these can communicate directly with each other and with the ear pieces.
  • a gyroscope can be used as an alternative to a pendulum and the gyroscope can detect the degree and direction of movement by measuring the pitch, azimuth and roll of the gyroscope of the ski and/or the like.
  • FIGS 8a, 8b and 9 A further use of the present invention is illustrated in figures 8a, 8b and 9 wherein data relating to a path taken by a professional alpine skier during a race can be determined and analysed.
  • the speed of change of angle of skis from positive to negative can correspond to left and right turns made by the skier.
  • the skier and/or coach may also require information relating to:
  • the movement detection apparatus of the present invention can be used in conjunction with GPS technology.
  • the location on a course when a particular movement was detected can be determined.
  • This data can then be provided in the form of a graph, as shown in figure 9, wherein the horizontal axis in this example represents time in seconds and the vertical axis is provided by a data logger and represents the angle of the skis as determined by the movement detection apparatus.
  • the paths of two skiers (skier 1 and skier 2) taken down a racecourse for each ski (left and right) are recorded and plotted on the graph.
  • the GPS data can be used to plot the path 400 taken by each skier between slalom gates 1 -7, as shown in figures 8a, and a more detailed comparison of the two skiers paths 400, 402 (skier 1 and skier 2 respectively) taken between gates 1 -5, as shown in figure 8b.
  • the graph can then be used to illustrate the difference in the paths and movements taken by the skiers, the angle of tilt of the skis at different locations, the speed at which the skis were tilted, the length of time of tilt of the skis and/or the like.
  • This data can then be used by the skier and/or coach to improve the skier's use and efficiency of the skis and to identify where time is being lost or gained on the racecourse in comparison to other skiers.
  • a further application of the present invention is in assessing alignment (pronation, supination, femoral anti-version and/or the like) of a person or athlete.
  • the present invention can be used to assess the alignment of a skier, which is important since mis-alignment can hinder the skier's ability to balance effectively whilst undertaking turns and/or other manoeuvres . For example, if a skier is 'knock kneed', this can make it difficult for the skier to initiate a parallel turn.
  • the movement detection apparatus can be used to monitor a skier's alignment when moving in a straight line or when balancing on one or both skis. Any adverse movement detected during these simple operations signals that a balance or alignment problem is present.
  • Alignment shims (tapered wedges which can be of varying angles of taper) can then be used to adjust the skier's foot position to determine the effect this has on movement detected.
  • the shim angle can be adjusted until a desired level of movement or no movement outside pre-determined threshold levels is detected by the apparatus of the present invention.
  • the shim angle producing the desired signal or lack of signal can then be used to fine tune the skier's alignment and to allow a custom made footbed, footwear inserts or orthotics to be formed for the user.
  • the present invention provides an easy way in which a user can improve their skiing skills as a result of being informed by the apparatus of the foot movements that have been made.
  • the apparatus of the present invention will be extremely beneficial to most skiers.

Abstract

Movement detection apparatus is provided including movement detection means for detecting movement of a part or parts of a user’s body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, such as ski or ski boot. In addition to simply detecting movement, the movement detection means is capable of identifying one or more characteristic of the detected movement. The information is then indicated to the user via signaling means or is transmitted to storage means for analysis at some point in the future.

Description

Movement Detection Apparatus and Method of Use Thereof
The present invention relates to movement detection apparatus and a method of use thereof, and particularly but not exclusively to movement detection apparatus suitable for use in alpine sports.
Although the following description refers to movement detection apparatus for use in downhill skiing, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the device could be used for a variety of different sports, particularly alpine sports, where the order and method of movement of a part or parts of' the participants body is important for undertaking the sport and for attaining a certain level of proficiency in the sport. For example, the movement detection apparatus of the present invention could be used for informing a golfer of his foot/leg positions when taking a swing at a ball, for informing a rider of their leg movement in horse riding dressage, for informing a user of leg movement in snowboarding and/or the like.
In the field of alpine skiing, foot and leg movement, and particularly foot inversion (turning of the sole of the foot inwardly towards the midline of the user's body), foot eversion (turning the sole of the foot outwardly away from the midline of the user's body) and subsequent passive internal and external leg rotation (rotation of the leg towards and away from the midline of the user's body respectively), are important for allowing the user to control speed, to turn and to stop.
In most sports it is widely accepted that in order for a user to improve and become proficient therein, the user must practise and repeat movements and/or actions in a consistent and efficient manner. Most skiers will initially take lessons at a ski school to learn basic ski manoeuvres or improve and/or refine their existing ski skills . For the majority of novice skiers an initial improvement will usually take place. However, for more experienced skiers, improvement as a result of taking further lessons is often minimal. This is because movements taught to experienced skiers are not consistent with the movements taught to and learnt initially by novice skiers. This inconsistency in the learning progression is largely the reason why many skiers do not return to take further lessons.
As in many other sports which are technical in nature and which rely upon fine motor skills for undertaking movements of actions proficiently, such as tennis and golf, the movements for proficient skiing need to be rehearsed and practised repeatedly to become ingrained in the skier. Manoeuvres taught to novice skiers by most ski schools are often contrary to the movements required for proficient skiing. Thus, inefficient movements taught at ski school often become ingrained in the skier and can become difficult to eliminate later on. There is therefore a requirement for a means of allowing a skier or other sportsperson to know when they are moving correctly/incorrectly or efficiently/inefficiently without the need of a competent instructor to be on hand all of the time.
It is known to provide ski devices which can be fitted to the user's skis or boots and which are able to detect the user's foot or leg pressure using pressure sensors. For example, US5878378 discloses a sensor for location in a ski boot which senses forward pressure of a user's foot in a ski boot. However, whilst such sensors may provide the user with an indication relating to their stance, balance or current position in a fore-aft plane, such devices are of only limited use since they do not detect the order, method and/or degree of angular movement (particularly lateral (foot inversion) and/or medial (foot eversion) inclination of the skis, boots or feet) undertaken by the skier, as provided by the present invention, which is/are important in allowing the skier to improve.
It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide movement detection apparatus and a method of use thereof which overcomes the problems associated with prior art sensors.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided movement detection apparatus, said movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, and wherein in addition to detecting movement, said movement detection means is capable of identifying one or more characteristics of the detected movement.
Preferably the movement characteristics include any or any combination of the order or sequence of movement, the direction of movement, the speed of movement, the rate of change of movement, the type of movement, the degree of movement, the length of time of a particular detected movement, the angle of movement and/or the like.
Preferably the detected movements are recorded and stored in memory forming part of or associated with the apparatus. All detected movements can be stored in memory or only detected movements meeting pre-determined conditions, such as a required direction of movement, level or threshold range, can be stored, the remaining movement data being disregarded.
In one embodiment communication means are provided in the apparatus for transmitting and/or receiving data between said movement detection means and said user or a remote electronic device, such as a personal computer (PC), thereby providing feedback to the user as to the type of movement the user is making and/or whether said detected movement or movements are appropriate.
Preferably signalling means are provided which signal to a user if pre-determined conditions relating to said movement and/or characteristic(s) of movement are met. For example, the signalling means can provide an indication to a user as to whether the movement and/or characteristic of movement which the user is making or has made is appropriate or inappropriate.
Preferably micro-processing means are provided which process said movement data. The micro-processing means determine whether said pre-determined conditions relating to the movement have been met. The pre-determined conditions can be pre-programmed into hardware or software in or associated with the micro-processing units.
In one example, a plurality of pre-programmed values or ranges relating to said movement characteristics are stored in the apparatus and a comparison is made by said micro-processing means between said pre-stored data and said newly detected data. If pre-determined conditions are met based on this comparison, the signalling means are actuated.
In a further embodiment the movement data is downloaded to a personal computer (PC) for analysis. This downloading of data can take place substantially simultaneously to the data being detected, i.e. movements are detected and communicated via communication means to a remote PC for viewing by a coach or third party, or the stored data can be downloaded at some point in the future to a PC for analysis.
Preferably the movement detection means includes any or any combination of a pendulum, accelerometer, tilt sensor/indicator, angle indicator, electronic/manual inclinometers, gyroscope and/or the like.
In one embodiment the movement detection means functions by providing at least one member which is movable relative to a fixed point or points and this movement is monitored and/or measured to provide movement data.
Preferably a housing containing said movement detection means is provided on or adjacent a part of the user's body, clothing and/or sports equipment for which movement is required to be detected.
In one embodiment two movement detection means are provided, one on each foot, boot, ski or leg of the user. A micro-processing unit can be provided in or adjacent each housing containing the movement detection means.
In an alternative embodiment a micro-processing unit is provided separately to the movement detection means.
In whichever embodiment mentioned, the micro-processing units and/ or communication means communicate with the movement detection means via any or any combination of cable, infra-red, radio frequency, blue-chip technology and/ or the like.
Preferably the apparatus is provided with control means for allowing the apparatus to be switched on/standby/off or parameters and/or pre-determined conditions to be input or adjusted by the manufacturer and/or user.
Preferably the movement detection means detects characteristics of movement between one or more pre-determined threshold values. The pre-determined threshold values include a minimum movement value, below which no movement is detected and/or signal is actuated from the signalling means and a maximum movement value, above which no movement is detected and/or signal is actuated.
Further preferably the threshold levels can be set and/or adjusted, typically by the user and/or manufacturer via the control panel. This allows user's of different skill levels in a particular sport or event using the apparatus to set a threshold level which is suitable for their skill level. Thus for example, the threshold values set for the movement detection means (i.e., for foot inversion) of an advanced skier may typically result in the device being set to a higher threshold value than the value set for a less advanced skier.
Preferably the rate of change of movement being detected by the movement detection means is signalled via the signalling means. For example, once a threshold level of a particular movement characteristic is reached, the rate of change of movement thereafter is signalled to a user. An increase in the angle of the user's skis throughout a turn is desirable and therefore the ability to signal this increase in angle as a rate of change of movement is advantageous.
In one embodiment asymmetric threshold levels are set in the device. For example, the threshold levels may differ in one direction relative to another direction. This allows the threshold level in one device on one ski, foot and/or boot to be reached prior to the threshold level in the device on the other ski, foot and/or boot being reached. A signal can then be initiated to inform the user of the detected movement accordingly.
In one embodiment the movement detection means includes a pendulum contained within the housing, and angular rotation of said pendulum is detected and recorded by electronic circuitry provided therewith.
Preferably a viscose fluid, such as oil and/or the like, is provided in said housing, thereby providing a dampening effect of said pendulum movement such that normal vibrations associated with the user performing the sport can be accounted for or dampened.
Preferably the signalling means provides an audio, kinaesthetic and/or visual indication to a user. This indication can signal that movement has been detected, that the movement detected was correct, that the movement detected was incorrect and/or the type or degree of movement detected. The signal(s) can be intermittent or continuous until further movement is detected. Furthermore, the signal can be continuous if correct movement or movement in a particular direction or through a particular angle is continuous.
In one embodiment the audio signalling means includes one or more ear pieces worn by the user in or adjacent to their ear or ears. The audio indication/ signal(s) can include different sounds for indication of correct or incorrect movements or the type and/or degree of movement, such as a spoken message, one or more beeps or different tones or frequencies of sounds. However, speaker means can be provided on the user's clothing, body or sport's equipment. In a further embodiment the visual signalling means includes a display, which appears in the user's eye wear, such as a helmet visor, goggles or glasses. The visual signal/indication can include a text message, icon and/or the like.
Preferably the visual, kinaesthetic or audio indication appears, is felt or sounds adjacent the eye, ear or other appropriate location corresponding to the side of the user's body movement where the movement was detected. Thus for example, movement of the user's left foot will result in one or more signals being generated in or adjacent to the user's left ear or eye. However, it is noted that the indication can be provided at any required location on the user's body, clothing of sports equipment.
In one embodiment the housing containing movement detection means is provided on one or both skies, ski binding, boot, footwear, clothing and/or the like. The ski binding is defined as the units which are attached to the skis and which the ski boots clip onto /are secured thereto.
The movement detection means can be retrofitted to the user's equipment or clothing or can be provided as an integral part thereof. The units can be detachably attached using any or any combination of clips, stitching, screws, adhesive, Velcro and/or secured via any other conventional means to the user or user's equipment.
The power supply for the apparatus and components thereof is typically provided via one or more batteries, which can be rechargeable if required. Alternatively, or in addition, at least part of the apparatus can be powered by solar power.
Preferably the movement detection apparatus is able to detect lateral and medial inclination movements of the feet, footwear. sports equipment, skis or boots; the order and/or method in which such movements are made and/or the angle or degree to which these movements are made.
In one embodiment the device detects leg adduction movement (horizontal, vertical or diagonal distance) between the feet. For example, switch means such as a microswitch or switches can be located on the medial (inner side) of the user's leg(s) such that when the legs are brought into contact with each other the switches are actuated and a signal is generated to inform the user of the movement. Alternatively a device allowing the horizontal distance of the items of sports equipment, parts of the user's body, skis, boots, knees, ankles, feet and/or the like to be measured and informed to the user can be provided.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided movement detection apparatus, said movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting and recording movements associated with a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, said movement detection means including at least one member which is movable relative to a fixed point or points of said movement detection means to allow the detection of movement, micro-processing means for processing said recorded movements and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, signalling means are actuated to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of the detected movement have been met.
Preferably at least one movable member is a pendulum which moves relative to a fixed housing. The movement of the pendulum is detected by electronic circuitry provided in said housing. According to further aspects of the present invention there is provided either a ski, ski boot, and/or ski or boot binding having movement detection apparatus as described above.
According to a yet further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using movement detection apparatus, said method including the steps of detecting one or more characteristics of movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, processing said detected movement data and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, actuating signalling means to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of said detected movement have been met.
The microprocessor of the present invention analyses and interprets movement data and transmits data to the user relating to one or more movements detected and analysed.
The detected movement data is typically compared against preprogrammed conditions prior to the user being informed of said characteristics of movement.
Timer means can be included in the apparatus for measuring the length of time certain movements are detected for.
Thus the present invention provides a means of detecting the order, method and/or the degree of movement, whether correct or incorrect, and rapidly signalling to the user to inform them of this. The user is provided with substantially instant feedback for any movement made, thereby allowing the user to quickly improve their performance, thereby providing greater enjoyment to the user. Alternatively, or in addition, the detected movement data can be forwarded to a PC or other communications device at that time or at some point in the future.
The advantages of the present invention are that the user can use the apparatus at their convenience, thereby giving the user the choice of whether to attend ski school or hire an instructor, which can be expensive. The apparatus is discrete and relatively few components are required at different locations to provide information relating to a broad range of movement. The apparatus will help to improve the user's skill level by informing them of when efficient or inefficient movements have been made. Thus the device can assist in replacing inefficient movements ingrained in the user with efficient movements, thereby allowing the user's skill level to improve. The apparatus can be supplemented by use of an instruction book, compact disc, digital video disc and/or the like.
An embodiment of the present invention will now be illustrated with reference to the accompanying figures wherein:
Figures 1A-1D illustrate a skier undertaking a right turn in an inefficient manner;
Figures 2A-2D illustrate a skier undertaking a right turn in an efficient manner;
Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a skier wearing a movement detection apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 is a simplified diagram showing a movement detection device; Figures 5A-5H illustrate movement of the pendulum of the detection device in undertaking the turn shown in Figures 1A- 1D and 2A-2D;
Figure 6 illustrates a further embodiment of the present invention showing asymmetrical threshold levels;
Figure 7 is a simplified block diagram of a micro-processing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 8a and 8b illustrate a ski racer's path taken down a race course and a comparison of two racer's paths taken down a course respectively using the apparatus of the present invention and a global positioning system (GPS); and
Figure 9 is an example of a graph plot which can be generated using data provided by apparatus of the present invention.
Referring to the figures, there is illustrated use of the present invention in one embodiment as a training tool to allow a user to improve their footwork when undertaking a right turn during skiing.
The speed at which the skier's proficiency improves is largely due the skier's foot movements. Once the skier understands which foot movements are efficient and which are inefficient and the sequence of foot movements required to ski proficiently, the skier should make rapid progress. The invention of the present application in one embodiment provides instant feedback to help the skier make this progress.
For example, referring to Figures 1A-1D, there is illustrated a sequence of foot movements typically performed by a novice skier to initiate a right turn. The outer foot 2 is typically steered in the direction of the turn. This movement causes leg 7 to actively rotate in an internal manner (rotation of the femur in the hip socket) with the foot becoming slightly everted in the process. As the skis 9, 11 approach the fall line (an imaginary line corresponding to the most direct route down hill) , as shown in figure IB, feet 2, 3 remain everted with legs 5, 7 both internally rotated. At this point both skis are trying to turn in opposite directions to each other which is both tiring and the opposite of what the user should be doing if undertaking an efficient turn. Eventually foot 3 and leg 5 work in a cooperative manner with foot 2 and leg 7 to allow turning of the feet/legs in the same direction, as shown in figure 1 C. Once both skis are parallel, with foot 3 slightly inverted and leg 5 externally rotated, and foot 2 everted and leg 7 internally rotated, the turn can be completed, as shown in figure ID.
The action of steering the foot or feet (a movement which is mostly rotational in nature and involves little lateral or medial angulation of the foot or feet) as in figure 1A-1D, results in the base of the ski remaining relatively planar with the snow surface. Thus the skis have only minimal grip with the snow surface and the shaped edges of the skis designed to "bite" into the snow are used minimally, which is undesirable. On steeper terrain, as the user approaches the fall line with increased speed, a novice skier will typically turn their skis more aggressively. This action will often rotate the whole leg, hip area and upper body making efficient parallel skiing unlikely.
Referring to figures 2A-2D, there is illustrated a sequence of foot movements which show a different and typically more efficient approach to initiating a right turn to that shown in Figures 1A-1D. The inner foot 202 is slightly lifted to reduce the pressure on the ground/snow, inverted and pulled towards foot 201. The action of lifting and inverting the foot causes a shift in weight/balance to foot 201 , causing internal rotation of leg 203 in a passive manner (as a result of foot movement) . The action of pulling foot 202 towards foot 201 through leg adduction enables balance to be maintained more easily on the outer ski 201 whilst allowing the skier to invert foot 202 to an acute angle with the slope 207.
As the skis 205 and 206 reach the fall line, as shown in figure 2B, the skis are parallel and foot 202 continues to invert. This causes foot 201 and leg 203 to evert and internally rotate in a passive manner. As the skis pass through the fall-line, both skis remain parallel with the shaped edges of the skis "biting" the snow surface in an efficient manner, thereby fully utilising the design characteristics (i.e., sidecut) of the ski. The sidecut is the difference in width of a ski at its tip (front) , tail (rear) and middle. Skis are typically wider at the tip and tail in comparison to the middle of the ski. In general, the more side-cut a ski has the sharper it will turn.
The action of using foot inversion to begin a turn, as shown in figure 2A, causes the skier's centre of gravity to move across the skis, straightening leg 203 and engaging the side cut (edge) of the outside ski 206. It also places the skier in a position to effectively resist the centrifugal force when entering the turn. In contrast to the approach in figures 1A-1 D, the approach shown in figures 2A-2D allows the skis to remain parallel throughout the turn and to maximise the design characteristics of the skis in an efficient manner.
Thus in order to allow a user to ski in an efficient parallel manner, so that they can progress from the sequence of events shown in figures 1A-1D to the sequence of events shown in figures 2A-2D, the movement detection apparatus of the present invention is required. Referring to figure 3, there is illustrated a skier 102 using movement detection apparatus according to the present invention. The skier has skis 4 and 6 with boots 8 and 10 fitted thereto respectively. The boots 8, 10 of the skier are fitted with movement detection devices 12, 12' and said devices communicate with micro-processing unit 14. The microprocessing unit 14 is connected to a head set 16 located around the user's neck/head.
It is noted that the arrangement shown in figures 3 is shown in this manner for the purposes of clarity. Movement detection device 12 can be provided at any point on the boot, ski or binding and the micro-processing unit 14 can be provided in each ear piece. Each ear piece will typically have a control panel for adjusting the volume of the signal generated, adjusting threshold levels, selecting the type of turn to be detected and/or the like.
The head set 16 includes ear pieces 18 and 20 worn adjacent the user's ears 22 and 24 respectively. The ear pieces, microprocessing unit 14 and movement detection device 12 communicate with each other via radio waves (RF) or via Bluetooth Chip Technology.
Referring to figure 4, there is shown a schematic representation of movement detection device 12 according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a housing 104 and a pendulum 106 located therein.
An oil 108 or other viscose fluid surrounds the pendulum 106 and acts to dampen/filter out vibrations associated with skiing on snow of varying conditions. The pendulum 106 is freely rotatable through +/- 45 degrees within the housing about pivot point 110. It is noted that the pendulum could be rotatable through 360 degrees if required.
Electronic circuitry and a battery powered unit is provided in compartment 112 of the housing and communicates with the pendulum. The electronic circuitry measures and records the angular rotation of the pendulum at pre-determined time intervals (i.e., 100 times per second) . The detection device 12 is provided with a transceiver 105 to transmit and receive data from and/or to the micro-processing unit 14 and/or other movement detection means 12 provided on the skier. The angular rotation readings/data are transmitted from the transceiver 105 to a transceiver 17 provided in communication with the micro-processing unit 14 located around the neck of the skier via RF.
The micro-processing unit 14 is provided with memory in which pre-determined threshold values and received movement data can be stored. The micro-processing unit is provided with a suitable port, such that when the skier has completed an outing/session, the unit can be connected to or communicate with a personal computer (PC), thereby allowing the readings stored in the memory to be downloaded to the PC. The downloaded data can be manipulated by appropriate software to provide a record or display of the skier's movements on the ski slopes during the outing.
Depending on the movement readings received and processed from detection device 12, the micro-processing unit determines, typically based on pre-programmed data, whether to actuate an audio signal in one or both of the ear pieces 18, 20. The audio signal informs the user whether the movement detected by the device 12 is efficient or inefficient for the direction of turn. The signal is received in the ear on the side of the body of the foot that moved.
Referring to figures 5A-5H, there is illustrated simplified views of the pendulum movement in movement detection device 12" during certain foot movements.
Figure 5A shows pendulum 106 at rest when no foot movement is detected by device 12". The dotted lines 122 and 124 illustrate threshold values pre-set in the device. Movement of the pendulum between these threshold values does not result in data being passed to the micro-processing unit 14. Alternatively any data detected and passed to the micro-processing unit 14 is not transmitted to an ear piece for signalling. Movement detected between threshold values 122 and 124 is typically as a result of vibration of the skies across rough ice or snow, and thus this data is discounted.
Upper and/or varying threshold limits can also be programmed in the unit or the degree of sensitivity of the movement of the pendulum can be changed to allow for different skill levels of the user.
Once the pendulum 106 has moved outside the threshold range 122, 124, the angular movement is detected by electronic circuitry and data relating to the movement is transmitted to the microprocessing unit 14. The degree of movement is typically recorded, i.e., the angular rotation of the pendulum and/or the time that the pendulum is in a particular position is recorded. The direction of rotation of the pendulum is also signalled to the micro-processing unit, and this determines the direction of the turn and the foot movements required to complete that turn. Once a signal has been actuated from detection device 12", a signal is transmitted to the device 12 on the other boot which results in this device being temporarily switched off. This prevents signals being sent to the micro-processing unit from both detection devices 12' or 12" simultaneously, which may result in confusion as to which boot the signals were transmitted from.
Each detection device typically has specific address tags associated with the data generated therefrom, thereby allowing the micro-processing unit 14 to recognise which detection device the data has been received from.
When a right turn is initiated as in Figure 2A, the first movement or action is inversion of the right foot 202. This movement causes pendulum 106 to swing to the right beyond threshold limits 122 and 124 as shown by arrow 126 in figure 5C. A signal is transmitted from unit 12" to micro-processing unit 14, and to unit 12' to switch unit 12' off. By executing the turn in this manner, unit 12' shown in figure 5D on the left foot will not have started to move/rotate as far or at all on initial inversion of right foot 202.
Unit 14 detects the signal from unit 12" and transmits an audio signal to ear piece 18 adjacent the user's right ear 22 to inform the user that the movement made has been correct or efficient. The signal is maintained providing that foot inversion is constant or until the pendulum has reached a given threshold. If the user starts to perform an other action, such as reverting foot and unit 12" to a horizontal position and/or moving the left foot and unit 12', this change is detected. Unit 12' is switched on and a signal is transmitted to micro-processing unit 14 which actuates an incorrect audio signal in the user's left ear piece 20 informing the user of the mistake. Figures 5E and 5F show detection of incorrect initiation of the right turn in Figure 1A. The left foot is steered (leg rotation and foot eversion) towards the right as shown by arrow 128 in figure 5F, which causes pendulum 106 to swing to the right. A signal is transmitted from unit 12' to micro-processing unit 14 which results in actuation of an incorrect audio signal in left ear piece 20.
Figures 5G and 5H show substantially simultaneous movement of unit 12' and unit 12" during initiation of a right turn. In this situation, both units signal to the micro-processing unit to actuate or cancel out a signal in both ear pieces, thereby informing the user that a simultaneous action has taken place. Alternatively no signal can be provided when a simultaneous action has taken place.
It will be appreciated that any number of combinations of signals can be provided to inform the user of different mistakes and/or correct actions recorded.
Referring to Figure 6, there is illustrated a further embodiment of the present invention wherein the threshold levels in the left and right foot sensors differ. The threshold levels in each of the devices are asymmetrical. For example, threshold level 2 is closer to the resting position of pendulum 306" than threshold level 1 in device 312", and threshold level 3 is closer to the resting position of pendulum 306' than threshold level 4 in device 312'. As such, when the skier moves through a turn in the direction of arrow 302, with either the feet being steered simultaneously or the left foot being steered before the right foot, pendulum 306' typically reaches threshold level 3 before pendulum 306" reaches threshold level 1. If the right foot is moved prior to movement of the left foot, threshold 1 should be reached prior to threshold level 3. The microprocessing unit can detect the direction the feet are moving in and the order in which the threshold levels are reached in the different devices, thereby making the appropriate indication to the user as to whether the foot movements detected are efficient or inefficient for a particular type of turn.
It will be appreciated that the representations of the threshold levels and the pendulums in figures 5-6 are two-dimensional but in practise the devices and threshold levels are likely to be three dimensional.
The micro-processing unit is typically pre-programmed with average vibration data, such that a significant deviation from this average is detected as movement of the boot or ski in a particular direction. The direction of movement is detected by the initiation of a positive or negative signal from the pendulum movement, depending on which side of the mean vibration point the pendulum swings.
An example of a simplified central processing unit 414 is shown in figure 7. Left and right foot sensors 416 and 418 respectively are provided with transceivers which communicate with a transceiver 420 in unit 414. Interface electronics 422 connect the transceiver 420 to microprocessor 424, and microprocessor 424 decodes the signals received from the left and right foot sensors 416 and 418 and transmits appropriate signals to the left and right earpieces 426 and 428 respectively via output circuitry 430. The central processing unit is battery powered by rechargeable battery unit 432.
The headset can be provided as a separate unit sewn into the user's clothes, provided on a helmet and/or the like. Once a signal has been actuated by the micro-processing unit to the ear piece(s) , the signal can sound until a different signal is actuated, until a given threshold has been reached by the pendulum or if the pendulum stops inclining in its current direction. Alternatively a signal once actuated is switched off until a different signal is actuated.
Once movement of the pendulum falls within a lower threshold level following movement above the lower threshold level, this sends a signal to the other movement detection unit, typically previously switched off, to switch the unit back on.
The housings of the units are typically made from a robust, weatherproof material, such as plastic, metal and/or similar and which typically has minimal radio frequency interference.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in that art that there are a number of different ways and combinations of providing the signals, threshold levels, location of memory and/or the like in/between the micro-processing units and the boot units which fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, a micro-processing unit can be provided in each of the boot units and these can communicate directly with each other and with the ear pieces.
It will also be appreciated that due to the effects of centrifugal force a gyroscope can be used as an alternative to a pendulum and the gyroscope can detect the degree and direction of movement by measuring the pitch, azimuth and roll of the gyroscope of the ski and/or the like.
A further use of the present invention is illustrated in figures 8a, 8b and 9 wherein data relating to a path taken by a professional alpine skier during a race can be determined and analysed. For example, the speed of change of angle of skis from positive to negative can correspond to left and right turns made by the skier.
In professional alpine ski racing, the difference between winning a race and being positioned 2nd or lower in a field of competitors can equate to just a couple of hundredths of a second. As such, the success of a skier is largely determined by the ability of the skier to use their skis as efficiently and effectively as possible during the course of the race. Use of the apparatus of the present invention in ski racing and training for ski racing to improve this efficiency is therefore highly desirable.
In addition to being able to detect the type, order and degree of movement, the skier and/or coach may also require information relating to:
1) the time taken for the skier to travel a given distance on the race course, such as between slalom gates X and Y.
2) the line or path taken down the racecourse for the skier and/or other skiers.
3) the position on the racecourse where each ski turn is initiated and finished.
4) the angle of the skies during and between turns, the speed at which the angles change and comparison of this between different skiers .
In order to provide the above further information, the movement detection apparatus of the present invention can be used in conjunction with GPS technology. By combining the movement detection data and the GPS data together on a computer, the location on a course when a particular movement was detected can be determined. This data can then be provided in the form of a graph, as shown in figure 9, wherein the horizontal axis in this example represents time in seconds and the vertical axis is provided by a data logger and represents the angle of the skis as determined by the movement detection apparatus. The paths of two skiers (skier 1 and skier 2) taken down a racecourse for each ski (left and right) are recorded and plotted on the graph. The GPS data can be used to plot the path 400 taken by each skier between slalom gates 1 -7, as shown in figures 8a, and a more detailed comparison of the two skiers paths 400, 402 (skier 1 and skier 2 respectively) taken between gates 1 -5, as shown in figure 8b. The graph can then be used to illustrate the difference in the paths and movements taken by the skiers, the angle of tilt of the skis at different locations, the speed at which the skis were tilted, the length of time of tilt of the skis and/or the like. This data can then be used by the skier and/or coach to improve the skier's use and efficiency of the skis and to identify where time is being lost or gained on the racecourse in comparison to other skiers.
A further application of the present invention is in assessing alignment (pronation, supination, femoral anti-version and/or the like) of a person or athlete. For example, the present invention can be used to assess the alignment of a skier, which is important since mis-alignment can hinder the skier's ability to balance effectively whilst undertaking turns and/or other manoeuvres . For example, if a skier is 'knock kneed', this can make it difficult for the skier to initiate a parallel turn.
Thus, in one example, the movement detection apparatus can be used to monitor a skier's alignment when moving in a straight line or when balancing on one or both skis. Any adverse movement detected during these simple operations signals that a balance or alignment problem is present. Alignment shims (tapered wedges which can be of varying angles of taper) can then be used to adjust the skier's foot position to determine the effect this has on movement detected. The shim angle can be adjusted until a desired level of movement or no movement outside pre-determined threshold levels is detected by the apparatus of the present invention. The shim angle producing the desired signal or lack of signal can then be used to fine tune the skier's alignment and to allow a custom made footbed, footwear inserts or orthotics to be formed for the user.
Thus it can be seen that the present invention provides an easy way in which a user can improve their skiing skills as a result of being informed by the apparatus of the foot movements that have been made. As foot movements determine the effectiveness, efficiency and speed at which the skier improves, the apparatus of the present invention will be extremely beneficial to most skiers.

Claims

Claims:
1) Movement detection apparatus, said movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment and wherein in addition to detecting movement, said movement detection means is capable of identifying one or more characteristics of the detected movement.
2) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the one or more characteristics include any or any combination of the order of movement, the direction of movement, the speed of movement, the rate of change of movement, the angle or movement, degree of movement or the length of time of a particular detected movement.
3) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the detected movements are recorded and stored in memory means forming part of the apparatus.
4) Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein all detected movements are stored in said memory means.
5) Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein detected movements meeting pre-determined conditions are stored in said memory means.
6) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein communication means are provided for transmission and/or receiving data between said movement detection means and the user or a remote electronic device. 7) Apparatus according to claim 6 wherein said communication means includes any or any combination of cable, infra-red, radio frequency or blue-chip technology.
8) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein signalling means are provided for signalling to a user if pre-determined conditions relating to said movement and/or characteristic(s) of movement are met.
9) Apparatus according to claim 8 wherein a signal is actuated by said signalling means if a correct or incorrect movement is detected.
10) Apparatus according to claim 9 wherein actuation of said signal is continuous until further movement or a different movement is detected.
11) Apparatus according to claim 9 wherein actuation of said signal is intermittent on detection of movement.
12) Apparatus according to claim 8 wherein said signalling means provides any or any combination of an audio, kinaesthetic and/or visual indication to a user.
13) Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein one or more ear pieces are worn in or adjacent to the user's ear(s) for informing the user of an audio signal.
14) Apparatus according to claim 13 wherein speaker means are provided at a suitable location on the user's clothes, body of sport's equipment for sounding the audio indication. 15) Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the audio signal includes any or any combination of one or more beeps, different sounds, different frequency of sounds or a spoken message.
16) Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein a visual display is provided on user's eye wear for informing the user of a visual signal.
17) Apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said eye wear is any of a helmet, visor, glasses or goggles.
18) Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein said visual signal is a text message or icon.
19) Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the signalling means is indicated at an appropriate location on the side of the user's body for which movement is detected.
20) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein microprocessing means are provided for processing said detected movement data and for determining whether predetermined conditions relating to the movement have been met.
21) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said detected movement is downloaded to a remote personal computer.
22) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the movement detection means includes any or any combination of a pendulum, accelerometer, tilt sensor, angle indicator, inclinometer or gyroscope. 23) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a housing containing said movement detection means is located on or adjacent the part of the user's body, clothing and/or sports equipment for which movement is required to be detected.
24) Apparatus according to claim 23 wherein two housings containing movement detection means are provided, one on each leg, foot, item of footwear, clothing locations or skies of a user.
25) Apparatus according to claim 23 wherein the movement detection means is in the form of a pendulum and a viscous fluid is provided in said housing surrounding said pendulum.
26) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus is detachably attached to the user's sports equipment, footwear or clothing using any or any combination of clips, stitching, screws, adhesive, Velcro.
27) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus is integrally formed with the user's footwear, clothing or sports equipment.
28) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein control means are provided for switching the apparatus on/off and/or for inputting or adjusting parameters or predetermined conditions.
29) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said movement detection means detects said characteristics of movement between one or more pre-determined threshold levels. 30) Apparatus according to claim 29 wherein the threshold levels can be set or adjusted by the user according to their skill level in a particular sport or event in which the user is partaking.
31) Apparatus according to claim 29 wherein two or more movement detection means are provided and different pre-determined threshold levels are provided therein.
32) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the power supply for the apparatus includes one or more batteries.
33) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least part of said apparatus is powered by solar power means.
34) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the movement detection means detects lateral or medial inclination movements of the feet, footwear or sports equipment.
35) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the movement detection means detects leg adduction movement.
36) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein one or more switch means are provided on the user's legs such that when the user's legs contact each other, a signal is generated via the switch means.
37) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein means are provided for measuring the horizontal distance between the user's footwear, items of sports equipment or parts of the user's body.
38) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sport's equipment includes skis.
39) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the footwear comprises ski boots.
40) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the footwear comprises ski bindings
41) Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes a global positioning system.
42) Movement detection apparatus, said movement detection apparatus including movement detection means for detecting and recording movements associated with a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, said movement detection means including at least one member which is movable relative to a fixed point or points of said movement detection means to allow the detection of movement, micro-processing means for processing said recorded movements and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, signalling means are actuated to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of the detected movement have been met.
43) A method of using movement detection apparatus, said method including the steps of detecting one or more characteristics of movement of a part or parts of a user's body, clothing, footwear and/or sports equipment, processing said detected movement data and, if one or more pre-determined conditions are met, actuating signalling means to provide an indication to the user that said pre-determined conditions relating to said one or more characteristics of said detected movement have been met.
PCT/GB2003/000556 2002-02-12 2003-02-10 Movement detection apparatus and method of use thereof WO2003068339A1 (en)

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GB0203240A GB0203240D0 (en) 2002-02-12 2002-02-12 Movement detection apparatus and method of use thereof
GB0203240.7 2002-02-12

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Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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US7383728B2 (en) 2005-07-13 2008-06-10 Ultimate Balance, Inc. Orientation and motion sensing in athletic training systems, physical rehabilitation and evaluation systems, and hand-held devices
GB2458437A (en) * 2007-12-19 2009-09-23 John Rohde Fencing priority indication
ITTV20100137A1 (en) * 2010-10-19 2012-04-20 Marco Giani METHOD AND DEVICE FOR SKIING PROPERLY
US9140637B2 (en) 2011-03-31 2015-09-22 Mihaly Kis, JR. Method and apparatus for simulating head impacts for helmet testing
FR3048591A1 (en) * 2016-03-14 2017-09-15 Decathlon Sa SKI SHOE PROVIDED WITH ROCKER DETECTOR

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DE3634465A1 (en) * 1986-10-09 1988-04-14 Achim Scharfenberg Method for forwarding information to a person engaged in a sport
WO2001010508A1 (en) * 1999-05-27 2001-02-15 Smith & Nephew Plc Rehabilitation device
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1497809A (en) * 1975-01-27 1978-01-12 Bp Trading Ltd Angular positional sensing devices
US4516110A (en) * 1982-08-09 1985-05-07 Mark Overmyer Ski stress signaling device
DE3634465A1 (en) * 1986-10-09 1988-04-14 Achim Scharfenberg Method for forwarding information to a person engaged in a sport
US6266623B1 (en) * 1994-11-21 2001-07-24 Phatrat Technology, Inc. Sport monitoring apparatus for determining loft time, speed, power absorbed and other factors such as height
WO2001010508A1 (en) * 1999-05-27 2001-02-15 Smith & Nephew Plc Rehabilitation device

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7383728B2 (en) 2005-07-13 2008-06-10 Ultimate Balance, Inc. Orientation and motion sensing in athletic training systems, physical rehabilitation and evaluation systems, and hand-held devices
GB2458437A (en) * 2007-12-19 2009-09-23 John Rohde Fencing priority indication
GB2458437B (en) * 2007-12-19 2012-05-02 John Rohde Fencing priority indication
ITTV20100137A1 (en) * 2010-10-19 2012-04-20 Marco Giani METHOD AND DEVICE FOR SKIING PROPERLY
EP2444130A1 (en) * 2010-10-19 2012-04-25 Marco Giani Method and device to ski correctly
US9140637B2 (en) 2011-03-31 2015-09-22 Mihaly Kis, JR. Method and apparatus for simulating head impacts for helmet testing
US9372139B2 (en) 2011-03-31 2016-06-21 Mihaly Kis, JR. Method and apparatus for simulating head impacts for helmet testing
FR3048591A1 (en) * 2016-03-14 2017-09-15 Decathlon Sa SKI SHOE PROVIDED WITH ROCKER DETECTOR

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GB0203240D0 (en) 2002-03-27

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