U.S. patent application number 13/300960 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-18 for sporting devices and structures having dynamic visual indicia.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKE INC.. Invention is credited to Rodolfo Chapa, Michael Collier, Kristopher Homsi, Vikram Malhotra, Michael E. Schmitt, Bruce Wojciechowski, Justin Wojciechowski.
Application Number | 20120264549 13/300960 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47006793 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120264549 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Homsi; Kristopher ; et
al. |
October 18, 2012 |
Sporting Devices and Structures Having Dynamic Visual Indicia
Abstract
An on-field vision training system is disclosed that provides a
visual identifier near the athlete during game play and training
exercises and other visual identifier positioned away from the
athlete, but so as to still be seen by the athlete during game play
and training exercises. The athlete uses the visual identifiers
during game play and training exercises to improve vision, focus,
and concentration. An American football having unique visual
identifiers for use as an in-flight visual training tool is also
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Homsi; Kristopher;
(Portland, OR) ; Malhotra; Vikram; (Portland,
OR) ; Schmitt; Michael E.; (Beaverton, OR) ;
Chapa; Rodolfo; (Portland, OR) ; Collier;
Michael; (Portland, OR) ; Wojciechowski; Bruce;
(Lake Oswego, OR) ; Wojciechowski; Justin;
(Portland, OR) |
Assignee: |
NIKE INC.
Beaverton
OR
|
Family ID: |
47006793 |
Appl. No.: |
13/300960 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12178587 |
Jul 23, 2008 |
8062037 |
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13300960 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/422 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/0002 20130101;
A63B 71/141 20130101; A63B 69/0071 20130101; A63B 2071/0694
20130101; A63B 2069/0008 20130101; A63B 43/008 20130101; A63B 71/06
20130101; A63B 2243/007 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/422 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. A sporting device comprising: a display device configured to
provide a visually-perceivable output of the sporting device; and a
processor and a computer-readable medium, wherein the
computer-readable medium comprises computer-executable instructions
that when executed by the processer perform a method comprising:
receiving an electronic signal picking one of a plurality of
selections, wherein each of the selections are configured to alter
a visually-perceivable property of the display device, wherein a
first selection is configured to provide a first visual indicia of
the sporting device and a second selection is configured to provide
a second visual indicia; wherein the first visual indicia is
further configured to be utilized during a first athletic routine
with the sporting device and the second visual indicia is
configured to be utilized during a second athletic routine with the
sporting device.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by a processor perform the method of: altering a
visually-perceivable property of the display to provide the first
visual indicia upon receiving the first selection.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the first and second athletic
routines each comprise a sport-specific training exercise.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the first and second athletic
routines each improve a single sport-specific skill.
5. The device of claim 3, wherein the first athletic routine is a
sporting event with at least two opposing athletes and conducted in
association with defined rules.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the display device comprises at
least one chromatic material.
7. The device of claim 6, wherein the display device comprises at
least one electro chrome.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by a processor perform the method of: upon receiving the
electronic signal picking the first selection, transmitting an
electronic signal to a first electro chrome to switch the first
electro chrome from a first state to a second state.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the first electro chrome is
substantially transparent while at the first state and the first
electro chrome exhibits a first color while at the second
state.
10. The device of claim 8, wherein the display device comprises at
least two electro chromes and wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by a processor perform the method of: switching the second
electro chrome from a first state to a second state responsive to
receiving an electronic signal selecting the second athletic
routine.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the display devices comprise at
least one material selected from the group consisting of: LED, LCD,
thermo chrome, photo chrome, electro chrome, and combinations
thereof.
12. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a user input device
configured to receive a user input picking the one of the plurality
of selections.
13. The device of claim 4, wherein the user input device is
selected from the group consisting of: a fitness structure of the
sporting device, an external electronic device, and combinations
thereof.
14. The device of claim 4, further comprising: a wireless
transceiver configured to communicate with an external electronic
device, wherein the user input device is located on the external
electronic device.
15. A sporting device comprising: a display device comprising at
least one chromatic material configured to provide a
visually-perceivable output of the sporting device; a processor and
a computer-readable medium, wherein the computer-readable medium
comprises computer-executable instructions that when executed by
the processer perform a method comprising: receiving an electronic
signal indicative of a user input selecting one of a plurality of
selections that each are configured to alter a visually-perceivable
property of the of the display device, wherein a first selection is
configured to provide a first visual indicia and a second selection
is configured to provide a second visual indicia.
16. The device of claim 15, wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by a processor perform the method of: altering a
visually-perceivable property of the display device to provide the
first visual indicia following reception of the user input.
17. The device of claim 15, further comprising: a user input device
configured to receive the user input picking the one of the
plurality of selections.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein the user input device is
selected from group consisting of: a fitness structure of the
sporting device, an external electronic device, and combinations
thereof.
19. The device of claim 15, wherein the user input is received from
a fitness structure of the sporting device.
20. The device of claim 19, wherein the sporting device is an
American football and the fitness structure comprises at least one
lace of the American football.
21. The device of claim 17, wherein the sporting device comprises a
wireless transceiver configured to communicate with an external
electronic device, wherein the user input device is located on the
external electronic device.
22. The device of claim 15, further comprising: a sensor configured
to detect a motion parameter of the sporting device during a
selected first athletic routine and the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by the processer perform a method comprising: during
performance of the first athletic routine with the sporting device,
detecting a parameter selected from the group consisting of: an
athletic performance parameter, the motion parameter of the
sporting device, and combinations thereof.
23. The device of claim 22, wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by the processer perform a method comprising: transmitting
information regarding the detected parameter to an external
electronic device.
24. The device of claim 23, wherein the computer-readable medium
further comprises computer-executable instructions that when
executed by the processer perform a method comprising: responsive
to the information regarding the detected parameter, associating
the first selection with a third visual indicia.
25. The device of claim 15, further comprising an energy scavenging
power supply.
26. The device of claim 26, wherein the energy scavenging device is
configured to scavenge power from motion forces during an athletic
routine, wherein the scavenged power is employed directly or
indirectly toward controlling the display device.
27. The device of claim 15, wherein the sporting device is a
football having a first end and an opposite second end, the
football comprising a sensor configured to detect a motion
parameter of the sporting device during a first athletic routine;
wherein the computer-readable medium further comprises
computer-executable instructions that when executed by the
processer perform a method comprising: after receiving an
electronic signal indicative of the first selection has been
picked, displaying a first visual indicia positioned about said
first end configured to be visually-perceivable during the first
athletic routine; and responsive to the athletic performance during
the first athletic routine, providing a second visual indicia
positioned about said one or both the first and second ends.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims
priority to and the benefit of, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/178,587, filed on Jul. 23, 2008, the contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any and all
non-limiting purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a vision training system
for use primarily on-field by athletes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In order for most athletes to perform at peak efficiency,
they must effectively view their surroundings and circumstances and
they typically must quickly and precisely react accordingly.
Athletes usually spend hours, days, and months training so as to
increase their athletic performance, but they often neglect taking
steps to improve their vision and reaction time accordingly.
[0004] Known vision improving exercises and methods are typically
performed off-field, and usually not during game play. As a result,
when athletes are involved in game play and the like, they tend to
forget or not use their vision improving techniques, thereby
rendering them useless at improving an athlete's performance when
it counts most, during the sporting event.
[0005] Similarly, many vision training drills and exercises to not
use traditional equipment used by an athlete while playing their
particular sport.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Accordingly, despite the available athlete vision training
systems and devices, there remains a need for an on-field vision
training system that has been proven to improve sports visual
performance during game play, and that readily reminds the athlete
to following the vision training lessons during game play. In
addition to the other benefits disclosed herein, the present
invention fulfills these needs.
FIGURES
[0007] FIG. 1 is an example on-field vision training system with a
visual display configured for use on a baseball bat in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0008] FIG. 2 is an enlarged visual display of the on-field vision
training system of FIG. 1.
[0009] FIG. 3 is an example on-field mounted visual display of the
on-field vision training system of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 4 is the example on-field vision training system of
FIG. 1 configured for use in basketball in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 5 is an example on-field vision training system with a
visual display configured for use on an article of footwear in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 6 is the example on-field vision training system of
FIG. 1 configured for use in American football in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 7 is an example on-field vision training system with a
visual display configured for use on a glove in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 8 is the example on-field vision training system of
FIG. 1 configured for use in soccer in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 9A is a front, isometric view of an example on-field
vision training system configured for use on an American football
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 9B is a side view of the football of FIG. 9A.
[0017] FIG. 10 is an example visual display pattern for use on a
first end of the football of FIG. 9A.
[0018] FIG. 11 is an example visual display pattern for use on a
second end of the football of FIG. 9A.
[0019] FIG. 12 shows an example sporting device in communication
with an external electronic device in accordance with one
embodiment of the invention; and
[0020] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of an example method for altering one
or more visual properties of a material of a sporting device or
sporting structure in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0021] An on-field vision training system 10 is disclosed in FIGS.
1-11 and discussed herein.
[0022] In general, the training system 10 has a visual display 12
that is preferably a sequence of images aligned in a row 14 (FIG.
2). Each image of the sequence of images preferably represents a
symbol that the athlete has pre-associated as a reminder to perform
a particular task or event during game play. A first visual display
12a is preferably positioned somewhere near or on the athlete, and
at least a second visual display 12b with preferably the same
sequence of images is posited at one or more locations throughout
the sports field so that the second visual display 12b is visible
by the athlete during game play. During game play, the athlete uses
the visual displays 12a, 12b primarily as a vision training and
concentration tool.
[0023] The on-field vision training system 10 is allows athletes to
complete a series of sport-specific vision exercises to improve
visual skills on the field and thereby improve the athlete's
performance on the field of play. The system is designed to work
the athlete's visual, neural and cognitive systems through a
specific sequence of exercises which have been proven to improve
sports visual performance. The order and sequence of exercises is
preferably very specific and organized specifically to enhance the
performance of the eyes for a particular sport activity.
[0024] Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the visual display 12 of the
on-field vision training system 10 preferably has five symbols
which are affixed, preferably by being detachably secured with
adhesive tape or the like, or incorporated into the actual design
of various articles of on-field equipment, including bats 16 (FIG.
1), sports gloves 18 (FIG. 7) and articles of footwear 20 (FIG. 5)
are used in combination with similar symbols which are affixed at
various points on the field of play as shown in FIGS. 1-8. The
player then uses this system of symbols to perform various
exercises which condition the eyes, neurons and cognitive system to
work together in an optimal manner to maximize the athlete's visual
performance on the field of play. The system 10 allows training and
conditioning of an athlete's visual skills in the context of the
field of play, with all of the attendant variables, distractions
and other factors that affect performance in actual sporting
contests. Example visual symbols and sequences are shown in FIG.
2.
[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an example on-field vision training
system configured for use during a baseball game is shown. The
visual display 12a is affixed to a baseball bat 16 while a larger
visual display 12b having the same sequence of characters is
affixed along the outfield fence 20 or the like. During game play
the athlete uses both visual displays 12a, 12b to focus on the
batting event and improve visual cue sensing. For example, when
stepping up to the plate for his or her turn a bat, the athlete may
initially focus on the third character down on the visual display
12a, and then look to the outfield to find that same character on
the outfield visual display 12b. He or she may then initiate other
pre-determined sequences of viewing these and other symbols,
thereby forcing the athlete to focus on these events and become
less distracted by other events, such as cheering or hostile
spectators, arising during game play.
[0026] Referring to FIGS. 4 & 5, an example on-field vision
training system configured for use in basketball is shown. The
visual display 12 is affixed to an article of footwear 20 worn by
the athlete, and another visual display 12c is affixed to or near
the backboard 32 of the basket. During a free throw, an athlete
uses both visual displays 12a, 12c to focus on the free throw
event, follow and remember established free-throw procedures, and
reduce undue distractions from interfering with making the shot.
For example, when stepping up to free throw line 30, the athlete
may initially focus one or more of the characters of the shoe
mounted visual display 12a, and then look for the same characters
on the near backboard mounted visual display 12c. He or she may
then initiate other pre-determined sequences of viewing these and
other symbols, thereby forcing the athlete to focus in preparation
for taking the free throw. A third visual display 12b may also be
provided and used, such as at the free throw line 30 or the
like.
[0027] Referring to FIG. 6, an example on-field vision training
system configured for use in American football is shown. The visual
display 12a is preferably affixed to a glove 18 (FIG. 7) worn by
the athlete, the football 50 (FIGS. 9A & 9B) used during game
play or practice, and one or more other visual displays 12b, 12c
are preferably positioned around the football field as shown. A
similar arrangement is also shown in a soccer configuration in FIG.
8.
[0028] Referring to FIGS. 9A-11, a preferred visual display pattern
for use on a football 50 is shown. Preferably, the pattern includes
a series of concentric, different colored circles/rings 66, 68, 70
extending from the respective ends 62, 64 of the football 50 as
best shown in FIG. 9A. The center circle 62 is preferably different
colors on each end 62, 64 of the football, with a first concentric
ring 68 extending there-around in a different color from the color
of the adjacent center circle 62. A second concentric ring 70 is
preferably aligned around the first concentric ring 68, and it is
preferably a different color from the adjacent center ring 62 and
first concentric ring 68. Preferably, the second concentric ring is
yellow. A preferred example color pattern is to have a red center
circle 66, blue first concentric ring 68, and yellow second
concentric ring 70 on one side 62 (FIG. 11) of the football 50, and
a blue center circle 66, red first concentric ring 68, and yellow
second concentric ring 60 (FIG. 10) on the opposite side 66 of the
football 50. Accordingly, one drill using these color patterns is
for the thrower of the football 50 to position one of the two sides
62, 66 toward the athlete, and throw the football 50 toward the
athlete. The athlete then calls out the color (red or blue) of the
center circle 66 directed toward them while the football 50 is in
flight.
[0029] The size of the center circle 62 and rings 68 and 70 can
also be optimized for maximum visual training. For example, one end
62 (FIG. 11) of the football 50 may have a smaller sized center
circle 62 and rings 68 and 70, than those items found on the
opposite side 66 (FIG. 10). Accordingly, as an athlete's vision
training improves using the side having the larger visual pattern,
he or she may select the more difficult visual pattern found on the
opposite side to further improve his or her vision training. In
addition, a pair of small brightly colored circles 56 (which are
preferably yellow) are preferably positioned on the visual display.
These small brightly colored circles 56 are preferably positioned
opposite each other so as to straddle the ends 62, 66 as shown.
[0030] More preferably, a plurality of elongate, concentrically
aligned, spaced apart lines 54 are provided along the "catch zone"
of the football as best shown in FIGS. 9A & 9B. These lines
offer a visual indicator to the athlete as to where he or she
should seek to catch the ball.
[0031] In addition, one or more numbers 58 and/or letter 60 are
provided on the football. These numbers 58 and letters 60 allow for
vision training exercises such as number/letter call-out drills to
be performed with an in-flight football.
[0032] With a football marked as described, it can be appreciated
that an athlete uses the visual cues to assist with focus and
concentration. The visual displays are preferably incorporated into
a wide variety of in-flight ball, route, passing and hand-eye
coordination drills.
[0033] Further aspects of this disclosure relate to systems and
methods for providing a range of dynamic visual indicia. In one
aspect, one or more dynamic visual indicia or patterns may be
provided on one or more sporting devices, such as football 50 shown
in FIGS. 9-11. As explained above, however, the utilization of
visual indicia or patterns is not limited to example football 50,
but may be applied to any apparatus, tool, and/or equipment
utilized either passively or actively, during a fitness or sporting
activity. Example sporting devices may include, but are not limited
to: golf balls, basketballs, baseballs, soccer balls, footballs,
powerballs, hockey pucks, weights, bats, clubs, sticks, paddles,
mats, and combinations thereof. Thus, any physical item that may be
manipulated (either directly or indirectly) by an athlete during an
athletic activity is within the scope of this disclosure. In
certain embodiments, a sporting device may be attached to or worn
by a user, such as gloves and/or shoes.
[0034] Further, as elaborated above in relation to FIGS. 1-8, one
or more sporting structures may include one or more visual indicia.
Example sporting structures may include, but are not limited to
objects within a sporting environment for utilization with or
during a specific sport or fitness activity, including for example:
a goal, net, hoop, backboard, portions of a field, such as a
midline, outer boundary marker, base, and combinations thereof. In
this regard, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or
more sporting devices may also be part of (or form) a sporting
structure and vice-versa. A sporting structure may comprise one or
more sporting devices or be configured to interact with a sporting
device. Illustrative embodiments generally described throughout
this provided below are described in relation to example sporting
devices; however, those skilled in the art with the benefit of this
disclosure will appreciate that any discussion herein applies to
sporting structures as well, unless expressly indicated
otherwise.
[0035] In accordance with a first aspect, dynamic visual display
devices may be utilized in a reversible manner on a sporting device
(or structure). In this regard, in contrast to standard visual
indicia commonly utilized on sporting devices, a first visual
display device may be provided at a first location and/or
orientation on a sporting device and be selectively displayed
during a first time period. Likewise, a second visual display may
be provided (either in conjunction with or in the absence of a
first visual display) on a second location and/or orientation
during a second time period. The second visual display may overlap
(either fully or partially) the location of the first visual
display or vice versa.
[0036] Looking to the illustrative sporting device shown in FIGS.
9-11, football 50 exhibits a first pattern or indicia which may
include the series of concentric, different colored circles/rings
66, 68, 70 extending from the respective ends 62, 64 of the
football 50. Yet, a second pattern may be devoid of circles 66, 68,
and/or 70. In one embodiment, the second pattern may comprise
different sized and/or colored circles that replace circle(s) 66,
68 and/or 70. In still yet other embodiments, a second pattern may
be devoid of any circles/rings. For example, in one embodiment, one
or more different geometric patterns may be provided as visual
indicia. In this regard, aspects relate to one or more
computer-readable medium(s) comprising computer-executable
instructions, that when executed, perform methods for dynamically
providing visual indicia on a sporting device. The visual-indicia
may be utilized in the formation of a plurality of patterns. In
this regard, a pattern may be user-selected from one or more
predetermined sets of patterns. In certain embodiments, users may
create, or build new patterns as well as modify existing patterns.
A display device may be utilized to display available or existing
patterns, and in certain embodiments, permit the user to observe
modifications to existing patterns. In further embodiments, one or
more patterns may be downloaded via a wireless or wired connection
and/or transmitted to sporting device 1200, such as ball 50, via a
wired and/or wireless connection. Further, patterns may be
automatically altered based on sensor detected criteria, e.g.,
relating to performance on either side of the throwing or catching
end of football 50.
[0037] FIG. 12 shows an illustrative sporting device 1200, which
may include an encasement, such as represented by portion 1201. If,
for example, sporting device 1200 is a sporting ball (such as a
football, soccer ball, basketball, etc.), portion 1201 may comprise
the outer surface of the respective ball. Yet, in other
embodiments, portion 1201 may form (or be a portion of) a housing,
encasement, or compartment of sporting device 1200, in which one or
more materials separate portion 1201 from an outer surface of
sporting device 1200. For example, insulation or energy absorbing
materials may be positioned between an outer perimeter of sporting
device 1200 and portion 1201. However, for simplicity, reference to
portion 1201 and/or an outer surface of a sporting device, such as
device 1200, are utilized interchangeably, however, one skilled in
the art will appreciate that portion 1201 is not required to be the
outer-most surface of sporting device 1200.
[0038] Sporting device 1200 may further comprise one or more
computer-readable medium(s), such as memory 1202. Memory 1202 may
include read-only memory (ROM) and/or random access memory (RAM).
RAM and/or ROM may include any type of one or more non-transitory
computer readable medium, including, optical, magnetic, disc, solid
state, such as flash memory, and combinations thereof. Memory 1202
may comprise computer-executable instructions, that when executed
by a processor, such as processor 1203, perform one or more
operations, such as for example, methods for dynamically providing
visual indicia on the sporting device 1200. Processor 1203 may be a
programmable microprocessor, yet in other embodiments, processor
1203 may be a purpose-specific circuit device, such as an ASIC.
Although both memory 1202 and processor 1203 are shown to be fully
encased within sporting device 1200, those skilled in the art with
the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that memory 1202
and/or processor 1203 may be external to sporting device 1200. For
example, processor 1203 and/or memory 1202 may optionally be in
operative communication with, and as such may provide processed or
raw signals to, transceiver 1204 for transmission to an electronic
device, such as device 1206 (discussed in more detail below).
[0039] In certain embodiments, power supply 1207 may be configured
to provide power to transceiver 1204, memory 1202, processor 1203,
and/or other internal or external components of sporting device
1200. The power supply 1207 may be configured to accept either
alternating current (AC) and/or direct current (DC). In certain
embodiments, power supply 1207 may comprise a converter for
converting energy between AC and DC power. In one embodiment, power
supply 1207 may comprise or be in communication with a power
scavenging device, such as for example, to obtain energy from the
motion of sporting device 1200. For example, the "spiral" rotation
of an American football or spinning action of a baseball in flight
may be utilized for energy generation. Likewise, the swinging of or
contact with a bat, club or stick may also be utilized Similarly,
the rotation of a puck could also be utilized for the capturing of
energy. Yet, in other embodiments, power supply 1207 may obtain
energy from the sporting environment, such as from solar power.
[0040] Power supply 1207 may be configured to provide power to one
or more display devices to provide dynamic visual indicia on
sporting device 1200. In one embodiment, outer-surface 1201 of
sporting device 1200 may comprise one or more materials configured
to emit light. Yet in another embodiment, at least a portion of
outer surface 1201 may be transparent and/or translucent, such as
to allow the passage of visible light from within an interior
portion of the sporting device 1200 to be visible on the portion
1201 and/or an outer perimeter of the sporting device 1200. In
another embodiment, at least a portion of outer surface 101 may be
reflective, e.g., either statically or dynamically, or both. In
still other embodiments, a combination of the above or other
properties may be provided, so as to enable visually-perceivable
output. Output of visual indicia may be performed through one or
more output devices, such as illustrative output device 1208.
[0041] Example output device 1208 may comprise one or more display
devices associated with a video adapter configured to control an
array having a plurality of pixels. A plurality of pixels may be
configured to display different color spectrums. For example, red,
green, white and blue light sources, such as LEDs, may be
controlled by red, green, white and blue input signals respectively
and may be positioned on a black background. Those skilled in the
art will appreciate that a combination of red, green and blue LEDs
allows for the generation of a wide variety of other colors. In
alternative embodiments, other primary color combinations may be
used. For example, magenta, cyan and yellow light emitting diodes
may be utilized. Further, an LED array may be replaced with or used
in combination with other light generation and display components
such cathode ray tubes (CRTs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs),
field emission displays (FEDs), plasma displays or any other device
that produces a visual indicia that is viewable external to the
sporting device 1200.
[0042] Further embodiments may utilize one or more chromatic
materials, either alone, or in addition to one or more other
materials providing visually-perceivable properties, such as output
device 1208. Chromatic materials (also known as chromic materials)
may include, for example, electro chromatic, thermo chromatic
and/or photo chromatic materials. In one embodiment, at least a
portion of outer surface 1201 comprises one or more chromatic
materials. In one embodiment, chromatic material(s) may be provided
on a portion of sporting device 1200 through one or more processes,
including but not limited to: screen-printing, stenciling, and
printing. For example, stenciling may be performed to provide one
or more patterns shown in FIGS. 9-11 on an American Football. Those
skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will
appreciate that any pattern or collection of patterns may be
stenciled on a myriad of sporting devices (as well as sporting
structures). In another embodiment, a film of material, including
for example, PET, may be printed with chromatic material(s) before
application on a location of sporting device 1200. Yet, in other
embodiments, glass or other structures may be utilized as a
substrate for one or more chromatic materials. Application to
sporting device 1200 may include at least one mechanical bonding
process, such as stitching, and/or at least one chemical process,
such as utilizing an adhesive. In one embodiment, one or more
electro chromatic materials (electro chromes) are polymer based. In
another embodiment, one or more metal oxide films are utilized as
electro chromes. Examples include, but are not limited to: cobalt
oxide, indium tin oxide, iridium tin oxide, molybdenum trioxide,
nickel oxide, tungsten trioxide, vanadium pentoxide, cerium oxide,
niobium pentoxide, and/or ruthenium dioxide. In yet another
embodiment, one or more organic inks may be utilized as an electro
chrome. Example organic dyes include, but are not limited to:
phthalocyanine complexes, bipyridilium systems, carbazoles,
methoxybiphenyl, quinones, diphenylamine and/or pyrazolines. Still
other materials may be employed, e.g., titanium dioxide in
conjunction with viologen.
[0043] Power supply 107 may be configured in controlling one or
more chromes. In one or more embodiments, power supply 107 may be
configured so that one or more thermo chromes are controlled via
application of selected thermal signals. In any such embodiment,
power supply 107, together with processor 103, may deliver selected
or various heat output(s) to one or more portions of thermo
chrome(s) comprising output device 108. In one or more other
embodiments, power supply 1207 may be configured to provide an
adjustable signal (such as for example, a power level) to one or
more electro chromes. In one embodiment, different signals result
in different visual indicia on sporting device 1200. In one
embodiment, one or more bistable materials may be utilized in which
a first electronic signal (which may be zero volts/amps or
otherwise below a minimum threshold of power) applied to the
electro chrome(s) may result in switching the electro chrome(s)
from a first state to a second state. In one embodiment, a
temporary application of power may result in the material(s)
resting at a second state until a second power level is applied to
the materials. After the transition from the first state to the
second state is complete, a bistable electro chrome may continue to
draw small, a negligible amount of, or zero power to stay in that
second state. In one embodiment, application of a first electronic
signal may result in at least one electro chrome appearing
substantially transparent. Thus, the substantially transparent
electro chrome may not form part of a specific visual indication on
sporting device 1200. Yet, in another embodiment, the first
electronic signal (which may be zero volts or below a threshold of
minimum power) may be substantially opaque such as to form part of
a visual indication. Application or alteration of an electronic
signal may reverse the at least one electro chrome from
substantially transparent to opaque and/or vise-versa from opaque
to substantially transparent.
[0044] In yet further embodiments, one or more electro chromes may
provide a plurality of visually-distinctive states. For example,
upon receiving no electronic signals or below a threshold level of
electronic signals, a first electro chrome may be in a first state.
For example, at a first state, the electro chrome may be
substantially transparent. Yet, the first electro chrome may be
altered upon application of a second electronic signal, such that
it's visual appearance is visually-distinct from the first state
when viewed external to the sporting device 1200, to be at a second
state. For example, in one embodiment, the electro chrome may be
altered from being substantially transparent to being a first
color. Still yet in further embodiments, the visual perception of
the electro chrome (when viewed from the external side of the
sporting device 1200) may be altered to be a third state, such that
it is visually distinct from the second state. For example, at a
third state, the same electro chrome may be a second color that is
visually-distinct from the first color.
[0045] In accordance with certain aspects, methods for adjusting
the visually-perceivable properties of sporting device 1200 or a
sporting structure may be utilized in the provisioning of visual
cues to an athlete. FIG. 13 is a flowchart of one example method
for utilizing dynamic visual indicia in accordance with one
embodiment of the invention. In accordance with one embodiment, a
user input configured to alter a visually-perceivable property of
at least one material (or device) of a sporting device (which may
be light-emitting and/or light-reflecting), such as sporting device
1200, may be received. The user input may be configured to select
one of a several selections that each alter a visually-perceivable
property of at least one material of sporting device 1200 (see,
e.g., block 1302). The user input may be received from one or more
users. Users may include, but are not limited to: athletes and/or
coaches. For example, a first user input may be configured to cause
a pattern, such as a first visual display/indicia, to be provided
on an outer surface of sporting device 1200. Example displays,
indicia, or patterns may include, but are not limited to, any of
the one or more displays shown in FIG. 9-11 on football 50. A first
display or indicia may comprise one or more patterns that may be
utilized in a fitness routine. An example fitness routine may be
focused on hand-eye coordination, yet another routine may be
focused on accuracy or preciseness of an athlete's performance
during the fitness routine.
[0046] In contrast, a second or further selection at block 1302 may
result in the provisioning of a second or further pattern, such as
a second visual display or visual indicia, to be provided through
output device 1208 and/or on an outer surface 1201 of sporting
device 1200. The second pattern may differ from the first pattern
in one or more aspects, including, size, shape, color, position,
location, brightness, orientation, and combinations thereof.
[0047] As one example, the illustrative sporting device (football
50) of FIGS. 9-11, the size of center circle 62 and/or rings 68, 70
may be altered to produce the second different pattern, indicia,
and/or display. For example, end 62 (shown in FIG. 11) of the
football 50 may have a smaller sized center circle 62 and rings 68
and 70, than those provided for the first pattern.
[0048] Yet, in another embodiment, the first pattern may be devoid
of any shapes and/or colors presented by the second pattern. Those
skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will
appreciate that any types of patterns may be used, and may depend
on the intended fitness routine to be performed by one or more
athletes.
[0049] In certain embodiments, the user input at block 1302 (or
other method described herein) may be received from physical
contact with the sporting device 1200. For example, a physical
structure of sporting device 1200 may be manipulated to provide one
or more user inputs. The physical structure may, but is not
required to be, located on an outer surface (e.g., portion 1201) of
sporting device 1200. The physical structure may be a "fitness
component" of sporting device 1200. As used herein, a fitness
component is any physical structure that is conventionally
understood by an athlete regularly engaged in an athletic activity
that routinely utilizes the sporting device 1200 to be part of
(such as being integral with, part of, or otherwise connected with)
that type of sporting device 1200. Thus, a fitness component may
not consist solely of a switch (or other component) that is only
provided to receive the user input. Rather, an example fitness
structure may be, for example, laces, such as laces on an American
football. Thus, a switch, actuator, or other non-obtrusive
mechanism may be positioned such that manipulation of the fitness
structure actuates the switch, actuator or other non-obtrusive
mechanism. In one embodiment, different laces or group of laces may
be manipulated by an athlete or other individual to select one or
more user inputs. For example, manipulation of a first lace may
provide a first user input and manipulation of a second lace may
provide a second user input. Alternatively, a single lace may be
manipulated in different manners to provide multiple different user
inputs. In this regard, sporting device 1200 may comprise one or
more sensors, such as sensor(s) 1209 (which may comprise
illustrative sensors 1209A and/or 1209B), that may be utilized to
receive a user input; such as the user input received at block
1302. Sensor(s) 1209 may be in operative communication with one or
more structures, including for example, a fitness structure.
Although sensors 1209A and 1209B are depicted within sporting
device 1200, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or
more sensor or other device configured to receive a user input may
be located outside (either partially or entirely) of portion
1201.
[0050] In other embodiments, an athlete's physical activity with
the sporting device 1200 during a fitness routine or activity may
be a user input received at block 1302. For example, one or more
sensors, such as sensors 1209A and/or 1209B, may be configured to
detect motion parameters of either the sporting device 1200 and/or
an athlete. Example motion parameters and inputs are described
below in relation to blocks 1306-1310; however, those skilled in
the art with the benefit of this disclosure will readily appreciate
that such athletic actions or other motion parameters may be
utilized as a user input in relation to block 1302.
[0051] In other embodiments, a user input, such as an input
received at block 1302, may be received from an electronic device
that is external to the sporting device 1200. As shown in the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12, electronic device 1206 may be in
wireless communication with sporting device 1200. Wired
communication protocols may also be utilized, such as but not
limited to a Universal Serial Bus ("USB") connection that permits
selective connection between the sporting device 1200 and another
electronic device. Electronic device 1206 may optionally comprise
two or more detachable components, such as for example, components
1212a and/or 1212b. For example, component 1212a may be a
relatively smaller component than component 1212b. In one
embodiment, component 1212b may comprise a mobile terminal device
and/or a personal media player and component 1212a may provide
further functionality to component 1212b. Component 1212a may
connect to component 1212b such that processor 1211 may communicate
with computing unit 1213 of electronic device 1206. Processor 1211
may communicate directly with computing unit 1213, and in certain
embodiments, be a part of computing unit 1213. Component 1212a may
also communicate with computing unit 1213 and other portions of
component 1212b through input/output (I/O) interface 1214, using
one or more channels, such as channel 214a. In certain embodiments,
for example, where 1212a is not detachable, I/O interface 214 may
be excluded. Further, processor 1211 of component 1212a and/or
computing unit 1213 of component 1212b may be redundant or
otherwise not required in certain embodiments.
[0052] Computing unit 1213 may comprise a processor configured to
read and/or write data to memory 1202 and/or 1215. Example data may
include raw or processed signals from sensors 1209. Computing unit
1213 may further operate on processed signals provided by one or
more fitness devices, such device 1200, for example, to generate a
set of athletic data corresponding to athletic activity performed
by an athlete and/or motion parameters of sporting device 1200.
Computer-executable instructions may be located on a memory, such
as memory 1215. Example computer-executable instructions may
include one or more processes discussed herein, including but not
limited to include performing operations on the output from
sensor(s) 1209, such as curve smoothing, noise filtering, outlier
removal, amplification, summation, integration, or the like.
[0053] Electronic device 1206 may further comprise I/O interface
device 1217. I/O interface device 1217 may comprise one or more
ports or interfaces (or devices connected through such ports or
interfaces) configured to receive an input or transmit an output.
In one embodiment, wired communication protocols may also be
utilized, such as but not limited to a Universal Serial Bus ("USB")
connection that permits selective connection. In certain
embodiments, I/O interface device 1217 may comprise a wireless data
"port," such as a Bluetooth interface, a Wi-Fi interface, an
infrared data port, or the like. In certain embodiments, I/O
interface device 1217 and/or transceiver 1204 may be utilized to
obtain computer-executable instructions that when implemented by a
processor, such as processor 1211 and/or 1203, result in different
patterns or indicia to be displayed on sporting device 1200.
[0054] At block 1304, a visually-perceivable property of the at
least one material or device, such as output device 1208, of
sporting device 1200 may be altered. In certain embodiments, the
material or device may comprise a material or device that may be
light emitting, light reflecting, or a combination. In accordance
with one embodiment, altering the visually-perceivable property may
the result of (either directly or indirectly) of the user input
received at block 1302. Example visually-perceivable properties
that may be altered may include: color, brightness, active or
inactive, timing of property adjustment, size, location, and/or
combinations thereof. One or more properties may be altered to
provide the first visual indicia, pattern, or display. Other
factors besides the user input received at block 1302 may
contribute to the alteration of one or more visually-perceivable
properties at block 1304.
[0055] In certain embodiments, at least one alteration does not
occur until a predefined criterion is met. In this regard, block
1304 may incorporate one or more other inputs or determinations,
such as example determinations 1306, 1308, and/or 1310 shown in
FIG. 13. Although blocks 1306, 1308 and 1310 are shown below block
1304, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that one or
more blocks 1306, 1308, and/or 1310 may occur before, during and/or
after one or more processes of block 1304. Further, the ordering of
blocks 1306, 1308, and 1310 is merely for illustrative
purposes.
[0056] At optional decision 1306, it may be determined whether to
adjust the output of a material, such as output device 1206. In one
embodiment, decision 1306 may be implemented to alter the
visually-perceivable property(ies) only upon detecting that
sporting device 1200 is in motion (or meets a threshold of motion)
during a fitness event or routine. For example, a first visual
indicia may not be provided on an American football until that ball
is thrown or may not be provided on a soccer ball until that soccer
ball is kicked. This may be useful as to prevent or minimize the
potential of an unfair advantage that allows the receiver to know a
pattern before the ball is in motion during the routine. In another
embodiment, one or more patterns may be utilized to set/reset the
"catch zone" of a ball, such as the football as best shown in FIGS.
9A & 9B. Such patterns or indicia may offer a visual indicator
to the athlete as to where he or she should seek to catch the ball
50.
[0057] In accordance with other embodiments, sporting device 1200
may comprise one or more sensors, such as sensor(s) 1209,
configured to provide information that may be utilized, either
independently or in conjunction with, other sensors, such as one or
more sensors associated with one or more sporting devices or
sporting structures. For example, a sporting device 1200 may
comprise sensors configured to measure a force and/or a direction
of the force. As one example, sensor(s) 1209 may comprise a sensor
in a basketball and another sensor may be positioned on a backboard
of a basketball court. Sensor(s) 1209 may include a removable
accelerometer module that is configured to detect acceleration. The
accelerometer module may be replacable with a different sensor
(i.e., a pressure sensor). Using removable sensors may permit a
sensor, such as sensor 1209A to be used with several different
fitness devices, such as soccer balls, powerballs, footballs,
and/or allow a user to upgrade or replace a faulty device, without
having to obtain a new sensor. In certain embodiments, placement of
one or more sensors 1209 may be configured so that the weights of
the included sensor(s) 1209 do not change the balance or center of
gravity of the sporting device 1200. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that sensors 1209 are not limited to accelerometers or
force sensors, but rather any other type of sensors may be
incorporated. For example, a sensor may comprise a gyroscope,
camera, thermometer, or otherwise.
[0058] In one embodiment, upon receiving an indication that
sensor(s) 1209 detected a parameter above a threshold, block 1307
may be implemented to adjust the visually-perceivable property. For
example, upon detection of a ball being thrown, block 1307 may
initiate the displaying of the first pattern/indicia as selected by
the first user input of block 1302. In yet, another embodiment,
block 1307 may adjust the first pattern/indicia such that the
displayed pattern/indicia on sporting device 1200 is not the same
(but may be similar to) the first pattern resulting from the
selection at block 1302. For example, in one embodiment, sensor(s)
1209 may detect that a soccer ball was kicked higher than intended
for the fitness routine associated with the selected user input,
thus a second pattern may be displayed on sporting device 1200. The
second pattern may be larger in size (as compared to the first
pattern) to permit the receiver to better perceive it.
Alternatively, the coloration, brightness or any other property of
a light-emitting/light-reflecting material of sporting device 1200
may be adjusted.
[0059] In yet another embodiment, the first pattern remains
displayed on the sporting device 1200, however, a second
pattern/indicia is displayed at block 1307 in addition to the first
pattern. For example, the first pattern/indicia may be the pattern
selected to be displayed for a particular training drill. Upon the
sporting device 1200 being put in motion, it may be determined
(such as from sensors 1209) that a motion parameter is above a
particular threshold, therefore, a second pattern may be displayed
to provide additional information. Example motion parameters may be
related to: speed, rotation, acceleration, force or combinations
thereof. The pattern displayed at block 1307 may be orientated to
provide visual information to the athlete who placed sporting
device 1200 in motion, an intended receiver of sporting device
1200, a spectator, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, if a
first athlete throws an American football with a "spiral" that
falls outside a threshold of acceptance, then one or more visual
properties of the first pattern/indicia may be adjusted to more
easily permit a second athlete to receive the football. Further,
data regarding the motion parameter and/or the displayed pattern(s)
may be stored on a memory, such as memory 1202, and/or transmitted
(including in real-time) to external memory 1215.
[0060] Either as part of decision 1306 or as a separate decision,
one or more visually-perceivable properties may be adjusted based
upon athletic performance. In this regard, block 1308 may be
implemented as a sub-component of 1306 or implemented in methods in
which decision 1306 is absent. In one embodiment, decision 1306 may
measure one or more sensor outputs to determine performance of a
first athlete, such as an athlete who throws or kicks a ball.
Accordingly, block 1307 may adjust a visually-perceivable property
based upon properties of the first athlete's kick or throw. In
contrast, decision 1308 may be implemented to alter at least one
visually-perceivable property (thereby providing a new
pattern/indicia at block 1309) upon detecting a second athlete has
caught or received the ball. Thus in the above embodiment, decision
1308 may measure the athletic performance of the second athlete,
whereas the determination at decision 1306 may be more akin to a
binary determination as to whether the ball was thrown or not. The
new indicia/pattern of block 1309 may show locations where the user
made contact with the ball (i.e., actual receiving locations). In
further embodiments, a pattern may provide an indication of optimal
receiving locations.
[0061] During use of the sporting device, athletes may utilize
visual patterns as visual cues to assist with focus and
concentration. The visual displays may be incorporated into a wide
variety of inflight ball, route, passing and hand-eye coordination
drills. In other embodiments, visual patterns may be utilized to
provide information to spectators, such as concerning motion
parameters.
[0062] In further embodiments, optional decision 1310 may be
implemented, either alone or in combination with other decision
processes (such as 1306 and/or 1308), to determine whether to
associate a new visual display/indicia or pattern with the selected
user input 1302 or other user input. For example, if an athlete
shows improvement during fitness routine or activity it may be
desirable in certain embodiments to alter the displayed visual
patterns associated with that fitness activity (e.g., see block
1311). For example, in one embodiment, sensor(s) 1209 may detect
that an athlete received sporting device within a proper "catch
zone". In another embodiment, sensor(s) 1209 may collect data
regarding other parameters of an athlete physically interacting
with sporting device 1200. Examples include, but are not limited
to: stopping a hockey puck with a stick, hitting a baseball with a
bat, throwing a basketball, which may interact with a sporting
structure, such as a backboard and/or rim. Thus, methods (which may
be executed as part of block 1311) may be implemented to transmit
an electronic signal indicative of one or more interactions,
including performance characteristics of an athlete and/or motion
characteristics of sporting device 1200. Those skilled in the art
will understand that in at least some embodiments, motion
characteristics and performance characteristics, may be the same,
overlapping, or otherwise associated.
[0063] In one embodiment, block 1311 may adjust the difficulty
level of a training routine or a portion thereof, by adjusting one
or more display patterns, indicia or devices. For example, looking
to the example sporting device (football 50) of FIGS. 9-11, the
size of center circle 62 and/or rings 68, 70 may be altered to
produce a different pattern, indicia, and/or display. For example,
end 62 (shown in FIG. 11) of the football 50 may have a smaller
sized center circle 62 and rings 68 and 70, than those that would
have been provided if certain performance characteristics and/or
motion parameters were not detected (such as during block 1310)
during a previous routine. Accordingly, in one implementation, as
an athlete's vision training improves using a first visual pattern,
a more difficult visual pattern (or plurality of patterns) may be
utilized to improve vision training. One or more patterns may be
utilized to mark the "catch zone" of the football 50 or to assist
perfecting a mechanism at which the athlete is deficient.
Obviously, other sporting devices may have other "zones" such as a
"strike zone" or the like.
[0064] Thus, a subsequent use of sporting device 1200 may be
associated with a different pattern, indicia, or device due to one
or more performance characteristics of the athlete or motion
characteristics of the sporting device 1200 itself. In certain
embodiments, one or more of blocks 1307, 1309 and/or 1311 may not
be implemented. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 13, block
1302 may be initiated whether one or more other actions (including
blocks 1307, 1309, and/or 1311) are conducted.
[0065] With one or more sporting devices or structures marked as
described, it can be appreciated that an athlete may utilize visual
devices to assist with focus, concentration, sport-specific
improvements, or other activities and may be incorporated into a
wide variety of in-flight ball, route, passing and hand-eye
coordination drills.
[0066] Having described and illustrated example embodiments with
reference to the illustrative figures hereof, it will be apparent
that the invention can be modified in arrangement and detail
without departing from such principles. For example, the sporting
events, structures, and devices shown and the symbols displayed are
exemplarily only. In view of the many possible embodiments to which
the principles may be put, it should be recognized that the
described embodiments are illustrative only and should not be taken
as limiting the scope of the many aspects of the invention.
Accordingly, we claim as our invention all such modifications as
may come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and
equivalents thereto.
* * * * *