CONNECTED DEVICE TO BE FITTED TO A PUNCHING BAG

Abstract

Disclosed is a device to be fitted to a punching bag, including: a cover which can contain the punching bag and formed of two sheaths, an inner sheath and an outer sheath, placed on top of one another, and including a releasable fastener to the punching bag; a plurality of target elements attached between the sheaths, each element including at least one pressure sensor electrically connected to an electronic control unit which includes a unit receiving data from the pressure sensors and a unit for processing the data; and an external system including a unit for communicating with the electronic control unit, a unit for analyzing the received data and a recording unit, storing and outputting the data and analyses. The targets may include light emitters controlled by the external system. Also disclosed is a connected punching bag and an interactive assembly for assisting in combat sports training.

Claims

1. Device intended to be fitted in a punching bag for training in striking combat sports comprising a cylindrical body covered with an envelope and means for attaching in a vertical position, the device comprising: a cover which can contain said punching bag, the cover being formed of two sheaths, one inner and one outer placed on top of one another, and comprising means for releasably fastening to said punching bag, a plurality of target elements attached between the two sheaths, each comprising at least one pressure sensor electrically connected to an electronic control unit, the electronic control unit comprising means for receiving data coming from each of the sensors and the means for processing said data, an external system comprising means for analyzing the data received from the electronic control unit, means for recording, storing and outputting said data and results of said analyses, means for communicating between said electronic control unit and the external system, means for electrically powering said electronic control unit and the external system.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a tubular body of diameter substantially identical to the diameter of the punching bag for which it is intended, at least one end of which is open and provided with a means for releasably fastening the cover to the punching bag.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sheaths of the cover are made of identical or different materials, chosen from among woven textiles, knitted textiles, natural leathers or synthetic leathers.

4. The device according to claim 1, further comprising at least three target elements structured in flexible sheets, each comprising a pressure sensor which can deliver an electrical signal proportional to the pressure exerted on the pressure sensor.

5. The device according to the claim 4, wherein the pressure sensors are formed of an electrically conductive material film, the resistance of which varies in inverse proportion of the pressure that it undergoes, said film being placed between two conductive sheets electrically connected to the electronic control unit.

6. The device according to the claim 5, wherein the pressure sensors have a round or square surface area going from 25 cm2 to 100 cm2.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the target elements are secured to the inner sheath at a distance from one another, by an attachment means chosen from among a seam, a welding, an adhesive, a scratch band, or a combination of these.

8. The device according to any claim 1, wherein the target elements further comprise each at least one light emitter electrically connected to the electronic control unit.

9. The device according to the claim 8, wherein the light emitters are light-emitting diodes or optical fiber segments, which can be activated by the external system via the electronic control unit.

10. The device according to claim 8, wherein the external system comprises means for commanding the light emitters of each of the target elements, coupled with the means for processing the data coming from the pressure sensors.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the target elements are covered with a protective pocket and, for each of them, the pressure sensors, and if necessary, said at least one light emitter, are connected to the electronic control unit by electrical wires which are slid in a tube held applied against the inner sheath of the cover.

12. The device according to claim 1, wherein the outer sheath of the cover is provided with a compartment which can contain the electronic control unit.

13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic control unit is provided with i) at least one pin for connecting to the pressure sensors and to the light emitters if there are any; ii) a wireless communication electronic module with the external system; and iii) an autonomous powering means.

14. The device according to claim 1, wherein the external system is a central unit of a laptop, or a mobile phone provided with an embedded microprocessor, or a web platform, comprising means for wirelessly communicating with the electronic control unit, and which is configured to execute applications dedicated to assisting in striking combat sports training.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the external system is configured to execute one or more applications for assisting in striking combat sports training, chosen from among: an application considering parameters of power-speed-accuracy of each impact on one of the pressure sensors during a session; an application considering variations of said parameters between sessions staggered over time; an application activating the light emitters according to different sequences; an application comparing the activation sequences of the light emitters and the parameters of power, speed and accuracy of impacts on the corresponding pressure sensors during a session; an application for comparing performances with a champion, other people taking part or with themselves at different times; application providing training programs.

16. Punching bag for striking combat sports training comprising a cylindrical body covered with an envelope and means for attaching in a vertical position, wherein the punching bag is fitted with a device according to claim 1.

17. The punching bag according to claim 16, further comprising means for suspending to a support or maintenance means bearing on the ground.

18. Interconnected assembly for assisting in striking combat sports training, comprising at least two punching bags, each fitted with a device according to claim 1, the external systems of said devices comprising remote connection means and means for synchronizing together.

19. Interconnected assembly for assisting in striking combat sports training, comprising at least two punching bags, each fitted with a device according to claim 1, the electronic control units (3) of said devices being provided with means for communicating with a unique centralized external system.

20. The interconnected assembly according to claim 18, wherein the external system(s) is/are configured to execute one or more interactive applications for assisting in striking combat sports training.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] The present invention will be best understood and details falling under this will appear in the light of the description which will be made, in relation to the accompanying figures.

[0077] FIG. 1 is a general view of a punching bag fitted with a device according to the invention.

[0078] FIG. 2 is a view of the inner sheath of a device according to the invention.

[0079] FIG. 3 is a representation of the inner sheath of a device according to the invention, comprising a target element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example 1

[0080] According to the illustrated embodiment, the device for assisting in striking combat sports training is represented in FIG. 1 fitted in a punching bag 100. The cover 1 can be seen, at least the outer sheath 22 of it, which covers the cylindrical body of the punching bag 100. The envelope of the punching bag 100 can be seen in its upper part. The bag comprises means for attaching in the vertical position, by suspension to a beam or other support 200, using three chains 101, hooked to a ring 102 of the snap hook type or other, easily removable.

[0081] The cover 1 comprises a tubular body 13 and a circular bottom 14 closing its lower end (orientation described in the use illustrated in this case). The upper end is open, while being provided with a cord 15 passing into a slider 16 making it possible to hold the cover 1 by clamping and to immediately release it as desired. The cover 1 is formed of two sheaths placed on top of one another, one inner 11 and one outer 12, represented respectively in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The sheaths 11, 12 are, in this case, made of stretch jersey, the inner sheath 11 being conveniently of a clear color, which facilitates sponsorship and mounting various elements during manufacture, and the outer sheath 12 being uniformly black. This sheath 12 can comprise a colored print, for example a logo or other distinctive sign, or an esthetic pattern. Another reason for choosing a uniform and dark color, is to obtain a clear contrast with a light signal emitted under the outer sheath 12, and which can be seen through meshes of the textile, as will be described below.

[0082] The two sheaths 11 and 12 are put in one another, such that the cover 1 comprises two layers placed on top of one another. They are secured together by a seam or by a scratch band, pressure buttons or other, ensuring their correct relative positioning. The tubular body 13 of the cover 1 is of a diameter which is comparable to the body of the punching bag 100, such that it molds its shape and remains flattened against it, thanks to the elasticity of the textile used. One of the sheaths comprises a compartment, wherein the electronic control unit 3 will be placed. Practically, the compartment is a pocket sewn at the top and at the rear of the outer sheath 12.

[0083] The device comprises a plurality of target elements 2 attached to the inner sheath 11 represented in FIG. 2 (without the outer sheath 12 for clarity). The target elements 2 are structured in flexible sheets, i.e. thin and adopting the shaping of the bag, against which they are applied, once the device is installed. In other words, they are placed between the two sheaths, without forming notable excess thickness by the user, especially since they are flattened and by curving against the inner sheath 11, by the simple bearing of the outer sheath 12. Eight target elements are, in this case, disposed at a distance from one another, in three groups, the placements of which correspond to the parts of the body of an opponent (head, chest, legs).

[0084] Each target element 2 comprises a pressure sensor 2. The pressure sensors themselves structured in flexible sheets, are manufactured using a pressure-sensitive electrically conductive material film 22, sandwiched between two conductive sheets 23 which are electrically connected to the electronic control unit 3. The conductive film 22 is constituted of Lingstat film, the resistance of which varies in inverse proportion of the pressure that it undergoes. In other words, a hit dealt on this material will lead to a decrease of the resistance of the film 22, and the passage of a current between the two metal sheets 23, is all the more greater than the hit is strong. Thus, the signal generated is proportional to the pressure exerted and provides quantitative information about the hits given by the user. In the present example, squares of Lingstat film 22 have been used, with a thickness of 0.12 mm and sides of 10 cm. The two conductive sheets 23 are constituted of polyester-coated copper and nickel microfiber conductive fabric, commercialized under the brand Nasafes, with a thickness of 0.10 mm and sides of 8 cm. They are placed centered and sewn above and below the film 22, in contact with it. Each sheet 23 is connected to the electronic control unit by an electrical cable 26 for one, 27 for the other, the end of which is stripped over a few centimeters and sewn to the zigzag point 28 directly on the fabric, preferably in a corner of the sheets 23, such that the connection receives the least number of impacts as possible. The pressure sensors 2, once assembled, can be slid in a pocket 25 made of plastic material, for example made of flexible polyvinyl chloride, and attached sewn on the inner sheath 11 by a few series of points carefully distributed, for example, at the border of the film 22.

[0085] The two electrical wires 26 and 27 are connected to the electronic control unit 3, to which they arrive by circulating on the surface of the inner sheath 11 in a protective guiding tube 6. The tube 6, made of fabric or made of flexible plastic material, is held applied against the inner sheath 11 by a continuous or intermittent seam. A tube 6 is provided at the start of each target element 2, and all converge towards the electronic control unit 3. They are conveniently brought together in a spindle 31 making it possible to connect and disconnect the bundle of electrical wires 26 and 27 of one single movement to the electronic control unit 3 via a port 32 which can receive this spindle.

[0086] The electronic control unit 3 comprises means for receiving data coming from each of the sensors 21 (raw data). It is provided with an electronic board comprising an analogue converter, such that the electrical signal received from a sensor, proportional to the pressure exerted, is transformed into quantitative data. The electronic control unit 3 also comprises means for processing the data received. This processing is generally a rather easy preprocessing, which can consist, in particular, of associated each pressure value with the reference of the sensor in question, with a time marked with respect to an initial time or with respect to the time for receiving the preceding pressure value on any of the sensors or on the same sensor.

[0087] The electronic control unit 3 also comprises means for transmitting raw data and/or the results of the preprocessing performed on a more developed external system, thanks to a wireless communication electronic module. The external system is able to receive and record the raw or preprocessed data transmitted by the electronic control unit 3. It is also able to provide complex analyses of data, to compare them with previously recorded reference data, and to perform a whole series of operations which are useful to users.

[0088] The electronic control unit 3 further integrates a supply means, such as a rechargeable battery having a life of several hours, preferably of at least 8 hours and even better, at least 12 hours. A charge indicator can be seen, either on the unit itself, or on a display screen of the external system. A signal alerting low charge, visual or sound, can also be installed. The rechargeable battery can be chargeable in situ, or it can be a removable accumulator, which can be replaced or recharged outside of the unit.

Example 2

[0089] The device presented in example 1 can be produced according to a variant, wherein the user is guided in their training sessions by light signs appearing on the punching bag. In this example, the target elements 2 each comprise a light emitter 24, which is electrically connected to the electronic control unit 3. In this case, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used, chosen with a sufficient power to be through the fabric of the outer sheath 12. They are attached to the center of one of the sheets 23 of the target elements 2 by a seam or another means, and are covered with a small transparent cap 30, in order to protect them from impacts, but also to protect the outer sheath 12. They are electrically connected to the electronic control unit 3 by cables 29, which circulate from each target element 2 through the tubes 6 described above. The cables 29 are assembled in a bundle, which is connected via a connecting spindle 33 engaging with a port 34 provided on the electronic control unit 3.

[0090] The illumination of the light emitters is commanded from the external system according to a sequence which can be selected by the user from an interface, for example on a touchscreen, in a prerecorded sequence database. The color of the light emitted can be modified by way of a suitable application.

[0091] The LED command means are coupled with the means for processing the data coming from the pressure sensors, and the external system is configured to compare the parameters of the light sign sequence and the data received relating to the pressures (raw data and prerecorded data) to perform the analysis of the sessions, with, for example, functions such as: [0092] monitor function (speed, power), [0093] timing (speed, endurance), [0094] predefined sequences (technical exercises).

[0095] The punching bag thus becomes literally interactive.

Example 3

[0096] The external system is designed to offer, in association with the connected cover described in the preceding examples, of multiple functionalities, which are intended for users, both amateur and professional sportspeople, to their trainers or to boxing gym providers. Users have access to these functionalities and to mobile apps installed on the external system (compatible with Apple and Android), by way of a screen and command keys (physical or touchscreen keyboard). The external system can, in particular, be a web platform, a smartphone, a computer or a tablet.

[0097] The processing of data collected by the sensors is done by translating these data into numerical values measuring three parameters: power, speed, accuracy. The subsequent analysis is performed by an application configured to quantify: [0098] The power of an impact and its accuracy; [0099] The quantity of effort over a session; [0100] The speed of executing a sequence; [0101] The effectiveness of a technique; [0102] The quality of a training session; [0103] The progression through training sessions.

[0104] The analysis data and results are recorded, which offers the option of comparing the performances from one session or one season to another.

[0105] The external system can be configured to offer different methods and configurations as desired, in particular: [0106] controlling the correct operation of the sensors and LEDs during the connection and status report to the external unit; [0107] automatic standby; [0108] recovery of values coming from the sensors and sending in real time to the smartphone connected by Bluetooth; [0109] execution of an LED illumination sequence, controlled from the smartphone.

[0110] In a variant of an embodiment, it is possible to configure the colors of the target LEDs being illuminated via a program sent by the smartphone. In this case, RGB diodes are attached to the target elements (with the corresponding cabling). The interest of this arrangement is to indicate by a predefined color that the weapon must hit the target in question.

[0111] Numerous actions can be controlled from the external system, by a mobile app which can be downloaded onto a smartphone, such as: [0112] user/web platform synchronization (avatar, statistics, preferences); [0113] authorization of use via a digital key provided by the web platform; [0114] creation of their user profile; [0115] management of program sequence; [0116] management of rest time between two training sessions; [0117] recording of a sequence executed on the punching bag and sending onto the web platform; [0118] option of operating in offline web mode; [0119] subscription to training programs.

Example 4

[0120] An interconnected assembly composed of several punching bags, each fitted with a connected cover 1 and a connected unit 3, is configured to operate in an interactive network, thanks to a web platform offering numerous options and, in particular, to: [0121] create their user profile; [0122] subscribe to training and coaching programs; [0123] take part in challenges; [0124] create programs (partition over three possible criteria: type of hits, color code indicating the body weapon to use on a target, time between 2 hits); [0125] share created programs; [0126] view their statistics.

[0127] This list is non-exhaustive. Multiple other functionalities can be provided and added to develop the extent of the options offered.