System and method for the detection of helmet-to-helmet contact
US9131741B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 10, 2013 |
| Grant date | Sep 15, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q9/00
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
System and methods are provided for detecting helmet contact. A first helmet (e.g., an offensive player's helmet) detects an impact, and transmits a signal indicating the detected impact. A second helmet (e.g., a defensive player's helmet) detects the impact and transmits a signal indicating a detected impact. In response to analyzing the signal transmissions of first and second helmets, a monitor determines that a helmet-to-helmet contact has occurred between the first and second helmets. To minimize the occurrence of false positive determinations, especially in the event that multiple helmets detect impacts, the helmets may be enabled to only transmit a signal if the impact exceeds a first impact threshold. Another means of minimizing false positives is for the helmets to transmit a timestamp associated with a time of impact occurrence. Further, helmets may collect and transmit information regarding the proximity of other helmets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.