Abstract:
A device that includes a receiving surface for positioning at least one human body part, multiple capacitive sensor elements disposed within multiple positioning areas on the receiving surface, a sense circuit configured to compare the capacitance measurements of the sensor elements with threshold capacitance values and generate a signal when the capacitance measurements indicate proximity of a human body part on a positioning area, and an indicator configured to generate a notification when the position of the human body part corresponds with at least one location on the receiving surface.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/467,511, filed Aug. 25, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/006,352, filed Dec. 31, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,814,713 issued Aug. 26, 2014, all of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to education and training for sports equipment, and more particularly to the teaching of finger positions on sports related equipment. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Many sports include handheld equipment. Such sports equipment can include projectile type equipment, such as balls or flying discs, and can also include equipment used to strike projectiles, such as bats, racquets, or mallets. Still further, such sports equipment can further include more complicated devices such as bows and competition shooting pistols or rifles. 
     When learning a sport that includes handheld equipment, the position of a hand, in particular the fingers, on the equipment can impact how a participant progresses. Learning improper finger position can adversely impact how one plays a sport, and can hinder one from advancing in the sport. 
     Conventionally, training for proper finger position on a piece of sports equipment is typically accomplished with a trainer giving personalized instruction. Such an arrangement can be time consuming and expensive. Alternatively, instruction manuals, videos or other visual aids can provide visual displays showing proper finger position on sports equipment from various views. However, such instructional approaches can be difficult for some people to interpret, and a learner is never given any indication when or if proper finger position has been achieved. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a block schematic diagram of a first embodiment. 
         FIGS. 2A to 2C  are various views of a second embodiment.  FIG. 2D  is a diagram showing a third embodiment. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are two views showing a fourth embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram showing a fifth embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a partial view showing a sixth embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a partial view showing a seventh embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a plan view showing another embodiment. 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  are views showing yet other embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  is a plan view of another embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a plan view of a further embodiment. 
         FIGS. 11A to 11C  are diagrams showing finger position sensing system according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 12A and 12B  are diagrams of a sensor circuit that can be included in sense regions of the embodiments. 
         FIG. 13  is a block schematic diagram showing on example of a capacitance sense circuit that can be included in the embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  is a block schematic diagram of a capacitance sense section that can be included in the embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  is a flow diagram showing a first method according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a flow diagram showing a second method according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  is a flow diagram showing a third method according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a number of drawings. The embodiments show devices, systems, and methods for teaching finger position for a sports equipment device. The devices and methods can provide for “hands on” learning with a piece of equipment that can provide essentially immediate feedback to inform a learner when proper finger position has been achieved. 
     A device according to a first embodiment is shown in a block schematic diagram in  FIG. 1 , and designated by the general reference character  100 . A device  100  can include a body  102 , a number of sense regions  104 - 0  to  104 - n , a capacitance sense assembly  106 , and an indicator  108 . A body  102  can have the form of a piece of sports equipment that is held by one or both hands, and can include a projectile device, as well as a device that is retained in the hands. A device  100  can be functional as a piece of sports equipment, or alternatively, may be a training device only, not intended for use in actual competition. As but two very particular examples, in the latter case, a device  100  can have the shape of a bat, racquet or paddle for striking a projectile, but not be designed to actually strike an object. In contrast, in the former case, device  100  can actually be employed in the sports activity. 
     Sense regions ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) can be formed on an outer surface of a body, in hand receiving region  110 . A hand receiving region  110  can be a location on the device for receiving one or more portions of the hand, preferably, positions where fingers contact the device. Sense regions ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) can have a physical placement corresponding to a proper finger position. Each sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) can include a capacitor structure having at least two plates. A capacitance presented by such structures can vary according to the proximity of an object (e.g., finger) to the sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ). For example, the closer a finger is to a sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) the greater the capacitance presented by the sense region. 
     Capacitance sense assembly  106  can be connected to sense regions ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) by a number of leads  112 . Leads  112  can provide an electrical connection between one or more capacitor plates of each sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) and capacitance sense assembly  106 . For example, in one arrangement, one plate of each sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) can be connected by a different lead to a corresponding input of capacitance sense assembly  106 , while opposing plates of such sense regions ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) can be commonly connected to a reference node (e.g., ground). 
     Capacitance sense assembly  106  can include a capacitance sense circuit  114  and a power supply receptacle  116 . A capacitance sense circuit  114  can preferably be a single integrated circuit device that can detect a capacitance at any of sense regions ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) by connecting such regions to a sense node. Preferably, a capacitance sense circuit  114  can be provided by a PsoC® Mixed-Signal Array manufactured by Cypress Semiconductor Corporation of San Jose, Calif., USA. A power supply receptacle  116  can provide power to capacitance sense circuit  114  and indicator  108 . Preferably, a power supply receptacle  116  can be battery receptacle for receiving a disposable or rechargeable battery to enable the device  100  to be handled in a normal fashion, unimpeded by cords or other connections. However, in alternate embodiments, a power supply receptacle can be an input for receiving suitable power supply levels from an external source, such as an AC-DC converter. 
     While capacitance sensing can occur according to various techniques, in particular approaches, a capacitance sense circuit  114  can sense a capacitance presented by a sense region ( 104 - 0  to  104 - n ) according to relaxation oscillator techniques, or alternatively, using a switched capacitor and a sigma delta modulator. One example of such an approach is shown in “Migrating from CSR to CSD”, by Ted Tsui an Application Note published by Cypress Semiconductor Corporation, the contents of this article are incorporated by reference herein. 
     Based on capacitance sensing results generated by capacitance sense circuit  114 , a capacitance sense assembly  106  can output of indicator value IND to indicator  108 . 
     An indicator  108  can be formed on body  102  in a position suitable for providing an indication to a user of the device. Such an indication can be activated in response to indicator value IND. For example, in the event the indicator  108  is a visual indicator (e.g., light emitting diode—LED, or liquid crystal display—LCD), the indicator  108  can be positioned at a location visible by a person holding the device  100 . In the event the indicator  108  is an audio indicator (e.g., speaker), the indicator  108  can be positioned to ensure the sound can reach a person holding the device  100 . In the event the indicator  108  is a tactile indicator (e.g., vibrator or rumbler), the indicator  108  can be positioned proximate to the hand to ensure vibrations can be transmitted to the hand. 
     In this way, a sports related device can include multiple sense regions at locations corresponding to finger positions, and can generate and indicator value according to capacitances sensed at such sense regions. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 2A to 2C , a device according to a second embodiment is shown in a number of views, and designated by the general reference character  200 . A second embodiment  200  can be a racquet (also referred to as a paddle, or bat) used in the sport of table tennis. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIGS. 2A to 2C  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2A , a first side of device  200  is shown in a plan view. A device  200  can include a body  202  having a handle portion  218  and a striking portion  220 .  FIG. 2A  shows the location of four sense regions  204 - 0  to  204 - 3 . Sense regions ( 204 - 0  to  204 - 3 ) can have physical locations corresponding to a particular grip type and/or hand size or shape. As understood from  FIG. 2A , sense regions can reside outside of handle portion  218 . That is, a handle portion  218  can be but one portion of a hand receiving region  210  of the device  200 . More particularly, a different type of grip could have multiple sense regions formed in a striking portion  220 .  FIG. 2A  also shows an indicator  208  formed, in this particular embodiment, on a bottom of handle portion  218 . Preferably, and indicator  208  is a visual indicator, even more preferably an LED. 
       FIG. 2B  shows a second side of device  200  in a plan view. In the particular arrangement shown, a second side of device  200  can include a fifth sense region  204 - 4 . 
     Again, it is emphasized that the sense region locations shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  correspond to one particular type of grip, and other sense regions could be added, or sense regions positions changed to corresponding to grip type and/or hand size or shape. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2C , device  200  is shown in a partial cutaway view.  FIG. 2C  shows a portion of handle portion  218 , cut away to reveal the position of a sense assembly  206  within handle portion  218  and below an outer surface of device  200 . Sense assembly  206  can include a capacitance sense circuit  214  and power supply receptacle  216 . Preferably, a sense assembly  206  includes capacitance sense circuit  214  and additional circuit components, such as passive circuit components, formed on a circuit board. Leads  212  from sense regions ( 204 - 0  to  204 - n ) can be connected to sense assembly  206 , thus allowing capacitance sense circuit  214  to sense a capacitance presented by such sense regions ( 204 - 0  to  204 - n ). 
     In this way, a sports device having a handle portion and projectile striking portion can include sense regions formed on an outer surface connected to a capacitance sense regions for indicating a desired finger position when properly holding the device. 
     While the embodiment of  FIGS. 2A to 2C  show an arrangement with discrete and separate sense regions, alternate embodiments can include a contiguous sense area that is logically dividable into different sense regions. One such arrangement in shown in  FIG. 2D . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2D , one side of a device  200 ′ according to a third embodiment is shown in a plan view. A third embodiment  200 ′ can also be a racquet used in table tennis. However, unlike the arrangement of  FIGS. 2A to 2C , the embodiment of  FIG. 200 ′ can include a sensor area  204 ′, shown by hatching, that can include multiple capacitance sensors. Such capacitance sensor can be logically dividable into multiple regions. As but one example, different capacitances sensors can be assigned to a same sense region. Thus, in a sensing operation, capacitance can be determined on a region by region basis. Assignment of sensors to particular regions can be programmable, allowing a same set of capacitance sensors to be programmed differently depending upon type of grip and/or size or shape of hand. The particular arrangement of  FIG. 2D  shows sensor area  204 ′ logically divided into various sense regions  204 - 0 ′ to  204 - 9 ′. The arrangement of  FIG. 2D  can be “programmed” to provide the same finger training position as  FIG. 2A , by sensing from sense regions  204 - 1 ′,  204 - 3 ′,  204 - 4 ′ and  204 - 5 ′ on one side. Assuming the same sensor area exists on an opposing side, capacitance sensing can be performed on sense region  204 - 1 ′ on such an opposing side. 
     In this way, a sports device can have a large finger position sensing area, programmable to sense particular regions of the area to sense different types of grips and/or accommodate different hand sizes or shapes. 
     Various other embodiments, provided by way of example only, will now be described. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , a device according to a fourth embodiment is shown in a number of views, and designated by the general reference character  300 . A fourth embodiment  300  can be a handle of a device that is gripped by two hands, in this case a handle of a golf club or golf club shaped device. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIGS. 3A and 3B  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3A , a device  300  can include a handle portion  318 . A number of sense regions ( 304 - 0  to  304 - 7 ) can be formed on an outer surface of handle portion  318 . In the particular example shown, each different sense region ( 304 - 0  to  304 - 7 ) can represent a desired location of finger. A visual indicator  308  can be formed on surface region  322  for easy viewing by a user. 
       FIG. 3B  is a cutaway version of the same view as  FIG. 3A , showing one example of a placement of sense assembly  306  within handle portion  318 . In the particular example shown, sense assembly  306  can have the same essential construction as that shown in  FIG. 2C , including a capacitance sense circuit  314  and a power supply receptacle  316 . 
     In this way, a sports device can have sense regions for detecting finger positions of for two hands based on changes in capacitance at such sense regions. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a device according to a fifth embodiment is shown in a number of views, and designated by the general reference character  400 . A fifth embodiment  400  can be a stringed racquet device, in this case a badminton racquet or a badminton racquet shaped device. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 4  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a device  400  can include a handle portion  418  and a projectile striking portion  420 . A number of sense regions ( 404 - 0  to  404 - 4 ) can be formed on an outer surface of handle portion  418 . In this example, like the previous example, each different sense region ( 404 - 0  to  404 - 4 ) can represent a desired location of finger. A visual indicator  408  can be formed on surface region  422 . 
     From the previous embodiments noted above, the present invention can be directed various other hand held sports equipment, including but not limited to, mallets (such as those used in croquet or polo), poles (such as those used pole vaulting or balancing), javelins, other types of bats (such as those used for baseball or cricket), watercraft related equipment (such as oars or paddles), or sports weaponry (such as that used in weapon related martial arts, or fencing). 
     Other embodiments can be related to sports weaponry that can transmit projectiles. Two examples of such embodiments are shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a device according to a sixth embodiment is shown in a number of views, and designated by the general reference character  500 . A sixth embodiment  500  can be the handle of a device that can transmit a projectile, in this case a handle of a bow for shooting arrows. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 5  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a device  500  can include a handle portion  518  having a number of sense regions ( 504 - 0  to  504 - 3 ) formed on an outer surface. A visual indicator  508  can be formed on surface region for easy viewing. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a device according to a seventh embodiment is shown in a number of views, and designated by the general reference character  600 . A seventh embodiment  600  can have the shape of another device that can transmit a projectile, in this case a competition shooting rifle. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 6  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a device  600  can include a handle portion  618  having a number of sense regions ( 604 - 0  and  604 - 1 ). A visual indicator  608  can be formed on surface region  622  for easy viewing. 
     In this way, weaponry related sports devices can teach proper finger position by utilizing capacitance sensing techniques. 
     While embodiments above have shown devices corresponding to those normally held throughout a sports event, and devices for striking or otherwise transmitting projectiles, other embodiments can include projectile devices transmitted by the hand. Various examples of such embodiments will now be described. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a device according to another embodiment is shown in a plan view, and designated by the general reference character  700 . A second embodiment  700  can be a projectile, in this case a basketball. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 7  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a device  700  can include a body  702  having an outer surface on which can be formed sense regions ( 704 - 0  and  704 - 6 ). An indicator (not shown) can also be situated on the device. As will be described in more detail with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 8A and 8B , a device  700  can include a sense assembly formed within body  702 , or on an outer surface of body  702 . 
     While the embodiment of  FIG. 7  shows discrete sense regions ( 704 - 0  and  704 - 6 ), in accordance with the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2D , alternate embodiments can include a large sense area logically dividable into more than one sense region, with a capacitance of each sense region being separately detectable. 
     In this way, finger positions for a hand thrown projectile can be learned utilizing multiple capacitance sense regions, each corresponding to a different finger position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8A and 8B , examples of devices according to two more embodiments are shown in various views. The embodiments of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  show another sports related projectile device, in this case a baseball. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiments of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  can be two variations on that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8A , a device according to another embodiment is shown in a partial cutaway view, and designated by the general reference character  800 . Device  800  can include a body  802  having an outer surface on which can be formed sense regions ( 804 - 0  to  804 - 2 ). A device  800  can also include a visual indicator  808  recessed within body  802  below outer surface, but still visible to a user. A sense assembly  806  can be formed within body  802 , and can have the same essential construction as that shown in  FIG. 2C , including a capacitance sense circuit and a power supply receptacle. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8B , a device according to another embodiment is shown in a plan view, and designated by the general reference character  850 . Like the embodiment of  FIG. 8A , device  850  can include a body  852  having an outer surface with sense regions ( 854 - 0  to  854 - 2 ). Unlike the arrangement of  FIG. 8A , device  850  can include leads  812  and a sense assembly  856  formed on an outer surface of body  852 . Further, in the particular example shown, a visual indicator  858  can be integrated with sense assembly  856 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a device according to another embodiment, like that of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  is shown in a plan view, and designated by the general reference character  900 . The embodiment of  FIG. 9  can be another example of a thrown object, in this case a cricket ball having a different finger pattern than that of  FIGS. 8A and 8B . In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 9  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a device  900  can include a body  902  with an outer surface on which can be situated sense regions ( 904 - 0  to  904 - 2 ). In the embodiment of  FIG. 9 , a sense assembly  906  can be formed within or on an outer surface of the device  900 . 
     While the embodiments of  FIGS. 7 to 9  have shown generally spherical shapes, alternate embodiments can include thrown objects having other shapes. For example, other variations can be applied to an American football shaped object. Yet another example is shown in  FIG. 10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a device according to another embodiment is shown in a plan view, and designated by the general reference character  1000 . Device  1000  can be a non-spherical projectile, in this case a “flying disc”. In one very particular arrangement, the embodiment of  FIG. 10  can be one variation of that shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a device  1000  is shown, in an inverted arrangement with respect to its typical orientation. A device  1000  can include a body  1002  having an outer surface on which can be formed sense regions ( 1004 - 0  and  1004 - 1 ). An indicator  1008  and sense assembly  1006  can also be formed on the outer surface. 
     From the previous embodiments noted above, the present invention can be directed various additional hand held sports equipment, including but not limited to, shots (used in shot putting), a discus, a hammer, or types of balls not mentioned above. 
     While embodiments described above have shown arrangements in which a sense assembly can be disposed within an object, other embodiments have shown arrangements in which a sense assembly can be formed on an outer surface of a device. Such an arrangement can be achieved with a finger position sensing kit that can be configured for various shaped objects. One example of such kit is shown in  FIGS. 11A to 11C . 
     Referring to  FIG. 11A , sensing kit  1100  can include various portions of like those of devices shown above, including sense regions  1104 - 0  to  1104 - 4 , leads  1112 , sense assembly  1106 , and an indicator  1108 . Sense assembly  1106  can be encapsulated in a packaging  1126 . Optionally, a sense assembly  1106  can include a physical input/output (I/O) port  1128  to allow programming of capacitance sense circuit within sense assembly  1106 . A physical I/O port  1128  can be configured to receiving a programming cable  1130 . As but one example, a physical I/O port  1128  can be electrically connected to a serial port built-in to a capacitance sense circuit within sense assembly  1106 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11B , one example of a sense region that can be included in an embodiment like that of  FIG. 11A  is shown in a perspective view and designated by the general reference character  1104 - x . A sense region  1104 - x  can include a sense surface  1132  and an opposing attachment surface  1134 . A sense surface  1132  can allow for the detection of variations in capacitance by way of lead connection  1112 ′. An attachment surface  1134  can allow sense region  1104 - x  to be affixed permanently, or alternatively, temporarily to a surface of a sports device. In the particular example shown, an attachment surface  1134  can include an adhesive exposed by removing covering  1136 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11C , one example of a sense assembly structure that can be included in an embodiment like that of  FIG. 11A  is shown in a perspective view and designated by the general reference character  1106 ′. A package  1126 ′ can surround and provide mechanical protection for a sense assembly. As but one example, a package  1126 ′ can be formed by an epoxy resin. A visual indicator  1108 ′ can be recessed within package  1126 ′. An openable recess  1136  can be formed within package  1126 ′, and can allow access to a power supply receptacle (not shown). An optional I/O port is shown as  1128 ′. In the very particular example of  FIG. 11C , a sense assembly structure  1106 ′ can further include an attachment surface  1138 . An attachment surface  1138  can include a flexible layer, as well as an adhesive exposed by removing covering  1140 ′. 
     In this way, a sensing kit can include a number of sense regions that can be attached at desired locations of a sports device. In addition or alternatively, a sense assembly can also be attached at a location of the same sports device. In this way, a sensing kit can accommodate various types of sports devices. 
     As noted above, in particular arrangements, the presence of a finger can be sensed according to a capacitance change. Particular examples of such structures for detecting such a capacitance change will now be described. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12A and 12B , an example of a capacitance sensor structure that can be included, an optionally repeated, in a sense region will now be described.  FIG. 12A  is side view diagram showing one example of a capacitance sensor  1200 . A capacitance sensor  1200  can include a first plate  1242  that can be connected to one potential node (for example ground), and a second plate  1244  that can be connected to an input node of a capacitance sense circuit. As a finger gets closer to first and second plates ( 1242  and  1244 ) a capacitance presented at such plates can increase. First and second plates ( 1242  and  1244 ) can be essentially coplanar to provide an advantageously thin sense region for attachment to a surface.  FIG. 12B  is a top plan view of a capacitance sensor  1200  showing one particular interdigitated arrangement of a first and second plate ( 1242  and  1244 ). 
     A capacitance sensor  1200  can form one sense region, or can be repeated multiple times within a same sense region. 
     In this way, capacitance sensor can have a low profile structure on a surface of a sports device, and thus essentially not disturb the natural feeling of the device. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , one very particular example of a capacitance sense circuit is shown in a block schematic diagram and designated by the general reference character  1300 . A capacitance sense circuit  1300  can include a number of ports  1346 - 0  to  1346 - n , a digital bus  1348 , an analog bus  1350 , a processing section  1352 , a capacitance sense section  1354 , an interface circuit  1356 , and a reset circuit  1358 . Preferably, capacitance sense circuit  1300  is a single integrated circuit. 
     While ports ( 1346 - 0  to  1346 - n ) can be dedicated inputs or outputs, in the arrangement of  FIG. 13 , ports are programmable I/Os. In particular, according to configuration data, a port can be configured as digital I/O or an analog input. A digital I/O can provide access to digital bus  1348 , while an analog I/O  1350  can serve as an input to an analog bus. In the particular arrangement shown, ports  1346 - 0  and  1346 - 1 , connected to sense regions  1304 - 0  and  1304 - 1 , can be configured as analog inputs. In contrast, port  1346 - 2  can be configured as a digital input, providing an interrupt input to capacitance sense circuit  1300 , while port  1346 - n  can be configured as a digital output providing an indicator signal. Such an arrangement can allow ports to accommodate different numbers of sense regions, or be configurable to accommodate different sense region configurations. 
     A digital bus  1348  can provide a data path interconnecting the various circuit sections of capacitance sense circuit  1300  with one another. An analog bus  1350  can provide analog inputs to capacitance sense section  1354 . This can allow a capacitance at analog inputs to be measured. 
     A processor section  1352  can include instructions for controlling the operation of the various circuit sections. In the very particular example of  FIG. 13 , a capacitance sense circuit  1300  can include a processor  1360 , nonvolatile memory  1362 , an interrupt control circuit  1364 , a random access memory (RAM)  1366 , a timing circuit  1368 , and a sleep circuit  1370 . A processor  1360  can execute predetermined instructions stored in nonvolatile memory  1362 , in response to predetermined input events. A nonvolatile memory  1362  can store instructions and configuration data for capacitance sense circuit  1300 . Configuration data can establish the configuration of ports ( 1346 - 0  to  1346 - n ), as well as the interconnection of signal paths within the circuit. In particular arrangements, a nonvolatile memory  1362  can store capacitance limit values for comparison against detected capacitance values of sense regions. 
     An interrupt control circuit  1364  can generate interrupts detectable by processor  1360 . As is well known, interrupts can allow a processor to selectively end or otherwise alter a current processing operation. A RAM  1366  can store data values generated by processor. In particular arrangements, a RAM  1366 , as opposed to nonvolatile memory  1362 , can store capacitance limit values for comparison against detected capacitance values of sense regions. A timing circuit  1368  can provide timing signals to processor and other circuit sections. Preferably, a timing circuit  1368  can have at least two modes, a standard operating mode and a low power, lower frequency mode. A sleep circuit  1370  can enable capacitance sense circuit  1300  to be placed into a low power mode in which non-essential circuit sections are disabled, and the device operates at a lower operating frequency. Such a capability can provide advantageously longer operating life for battery powered embodiments. 
     A capacitance sense section  1354  can determine a capacitance for sense regions connected to analog bus  1350 . In a preferred embodiment, such values can be provided as count values, corresponding to a charging and/or discharging rate of a sense region. Such count values can be accessed via digital bus  1348 . 
     An interface circuit  1356  can allow data to be input or output to the device. In a preferred embodiment, an interface can allow for the capacitance sense circuit to be reconfigured. In particular, an interface circuit  1356  can allow data to be written to nonvolatile memory  1362 , thus altering execution code and/or configuration data as but two examples. In this way, a capacitance sense circuit can be reconfigured even after it has been formed in, or attached to a corresponding sports device. 
     A reset circuit  1358  can control reset operations for the capacitance sense circuit  1300 , to enable the system to be reset in the event of error or power cycling. Additionally, a reset circuit  1358  can include a power supply voltage detection circuit that indicates when a power supply level falls below a predetermined level. 
     Preferably, a capacitance sense circuit  1300  is a single integrated circuit device to allow for a compact sense assembly. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , one example of a capacitance sense section that can be included in the embodiments is shown in a block schematic diagram and designated by the general reference character  1400 . A capacitance sense section  1400  can include a number of sensor inputs  1472 - 0  to  1472 - n , a common sense node  1474 , a current digital-to-analog converter (IDAC)  1476 , a voltage reference circuit  1478 , a comparator circuit  1480 , a capacitance sense counter  1482 , a clock circuit  1484 , an oscillator circuit  1486 , and an output register  1488 . 
     Sensor inputs ( 1472 - 0  to  1472 - n ) can be connected to common sense node  1474  by corresponding switches  1486 - 0  to  1486 - n . In the particular example shown, sensor inputs  1472 - 0  and  1472 - 1  can be connected to sense regions  1404 - 0  and  1404 - 1 . Thus, by operation of switches ( 1486 - 0  and  1486 - 1 ), either or both of sense regions ( 1404 - 0  and  1404 - 1 ) can be connected to a common sense node  1474 . In the particular example of  FIG. 14 , input  1472 - n  can be connected to common sense node  1474  by switch  1486 - n , or directly to comparator circuit  1480 . Further, in the arrangement shown, switch  1486 - 2  can connect common node  1474  to a reference potential (i.e., ground). 
     In this way, individual sense regions, each corresponding to different finger positions on a sports device, can be connected individually, or in groups, to a common sense node. 
     An IDAC  1476  can provide a current to a common node  1474 . Such an arrangement can allow a common node  1474  to be charged at a predetermined rate. When a sense region (e.g.,  1404 - 0  and  1404 - 1 ) is connected to common node  1474 , the rate at which the common node charges can reflect a capacitance presented at the common node  1474  (including any sense regions attached thereto). The embodiment of  FIG. 14  also includes a voltage reference circuit  1478 . A voltage reference circuit  1478  can provide a reference voltage to a common node, by operation of switch  1490 . 
     A comparator circuit  1480  can compare a potential at common node  1474  to a reference voltage selected by a reference multiplexer  1492 . Thus, a comparator circuit  1480  can generate a transition when a voltage at common node  1474  exceeds a selected reference voltage. Such an operation can be repeated, charging and discharging the common node  1474 . When common node  1474  is connected to a sense region (e.g.,  1404 - 0  and  1404 - 1 ), a transition rate of a comparator output signal can reflect a detected capacitance. In the embodiment of  FIG. 14 , a comparator circuit  1480  can also compare a potential at input node  1472  to a selected reference voltage by operation of multiplexer  1494 . 
     A capacitance sense counter  1482  can generate a count value based on transitions at an output of comparator circuit  1480 . A capacitance sense counter  1482  can receive a clock signal from clock circuit  1484  and an oscillation signal from an oscillator circuit  1480 . An output register  1484  can capture a count value generated by capacitance sense counter  1482 . 
     In this way, a capacitance sense section can selectively connect sense regions of a sports device to a common sense node. Such a common sense node can be charged with a current. The rate which such a common sense node can be charged and/or discharged can indicate a capacitance of sense regions. 
     While the above embodiments have shown various devices for training finger positions for a sports device, other embodiments can include methods for training finger positions. Examples of such methods will now be described. As understood from above, methods described below can be executed on a sports device actually used in a sporting event, or can be a device shaped like that used in a sporting event. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , a method for training finger positions for a sports device is shown in a flow diagram and designated by the general reference character  1500 . A method  1500  can include initializing the sports device (step  1502 ). Such a step can include turning the device on, or otherwise applying power to the device. In addition, such a step can further include generating a predetermined indication to show the device is ready to receive a hand. As but one example, an indicator can generate a particular type of pattern to let a user know the device can now be held in the hand. 
     A method  1500  can then determine if all finger positions of the sports device indicate a touch (step  1504 ). Such a step can include determining if a capacitance at each finger position indicates contact with a finger. 
     If all finger positions indicate a touch (Y from  1504 ), an indication can be generated (step  1506 ). However, if all finger positions do not indicate a touch (N from  1504 ), a method can return to monitoring finger positions. 
     In this way, proper finger positions for a sports device can be detected and acknowledged with an indication. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , a method for training finger positions for a sports device according to another embodiment is shown in a flow diagram and designated by the general reference character  1600 . A method  1600  can include isolating all sense regions (step  1602 ). In one particular arrangement, such a step can include turning off switches connecting sense regions to a common sense node. A method  1600  can further include a self-check (step  1604 ). Such a step can include making a determination that all components of a device are operating properly. If such test indicates the system is not operating properly (NO from  1604 ), a method can continue to self-test/error indication step ( 1606 ). However, if the system is operating properly (YES from  1604 ), a method can proceed to step  1608 . 
     If system is determined to be operating properly, a method  1600  can sequentially examine a capacitance at each of a number of sense regions. This can include starting with a first sense region, which in  FIG. 16  can include setting a variable i=0 (step  1608 ). A method  1600  can then acquire a capacitance of a selected sense region of a sports device (step  1610 ). In particular arrangements, such a step can include a capacitance sensing section connecting a sense region to a common sense node, and then charging and discharging the sense node to create transitions at an output of a comparator. The output of the comparator can be connected to a counter circuit, which can generate a count value for the sense region. It is understood that a step  1610  can acquire a capacitance of one capacitance sensor, or that of multiple capacitance sensors. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 16 , a method  1600  can continue by determining if an acquired capacitance of a sense region is less than a limit (step  1612 ). Such a step assumes that presence of a finger results in an increase in capacitance. A limit with which an acquired capacitance value is compared can be a universal limit (i.e., capacitance values for all sense regions compared to a same limit value), but is preferably a limit corresponding particularly to the sense region being examined. 
     If a capacitance is determined to be below a limit (YES from step  1612 ), a method can return to step  1608 . However, if a capacitance is determined to be above a limit (NO from step  1612 ), a method can check to see if all sense regions have been examined (step  1614 ). If all sense regions have not been examined (NO from step  1614 ), then a method can continue to a next sense region (step  1616 ) and repeat steps  1610 ,  1612  and  1614 . However, if all sense regions have been examined, and their corresponding capacitances indicate the presence of a finger (YES from step  1614 ), an indicator can be activated (step  1618 ), signifying proper finger positions on the sports device. 
     In this way, a method can sequentially compare capacitances of sense regions to predetermined limits to determine when fingers are in contact with such regions. 
     While embodiments above have shown methods in which hand positions can be detected (finger position training), other embodiments can include methods for acquiring hand position information. For example, it may be desirable to “program” a sports device embodiment with a particular hand position, in the event proper hand position varies according to device size, hand size or hand shape, as but a few examples. In such embodiments, a user, preferably while being instructed, can place their hand (or hands) on the device, with fingers in the proper position. A device can then acquire these positions, and store them. Subsequently, when the device is used, finger positions can be compared against the programmed finger positions to determine when proper finger position is achieved. One example of such a method is shown in  FIG. 17 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a method for acquiring finger position information is shown in a flow diagram and designated by the general reference character  1700 . A method  1700  can include determining if an input indicates a training operation for the device (step  1702 ). If a training operation is indicated (YES from  1702 ), a method can continue to with steps that can indicate when proper finger positions are achieved, like those shown in the embodiments of  FIGS. 15 and/or 16 . If a training operation is not indicated (NO from  1702 ), a method can continue determining if a program operation is indicated (step  1704 ). If a program operation is not indicated (NO from  1704 ), a method can return to step  1702 . If a program operation is indicated (YES from  1704 ), a method can continue to step  1706 . 
     In one particular arrangement, determining if a train or program operation is indicated can include generating interrupts in response to user inputs. For example, a device can include a button, or other input that can designated a mode (i.e., train or program). 
     The particular method of  FIG. 17  shows an assumed step  1706  that should be performed by a user and not the device. A step  1706  includes a user placing their hand (or hands) on a device with proper finger positions. 
     A method  1700  can then sequentially acquire a capacitance at each of a number of sense regions. This can include starting with a first sense region, (i=0, step  1708 ). A method  1700  can then acquire a capacitance of a selected sense region of a sports device (step  1710 ). As in the case of  FIG. 16 , step  1710  can include acquiring a capacitance of one capacitance sensor, or that of multiple capacitance sensors. In the very particular example of  FIG. 17 , a method can also modify sensed capacitance value to generate a limit for the sense region (step  1712 ). Such a step can include adding margin for greater or lesser sensitivity, or calculating a limit with hysteresis. Once a limit value has been generated, such limit value can be stored ( 1714 ). Preferably, such a limit value can be stored in memory circuits on the sports device itself, such as nonvolatile or volatile (e.g., RAM) memory circuits. 
     Once a limit value for a selected sense region can be created and stored, a method can check to see of all sense regions have been examined (step  1716 ). If limits for all sense regions have not been created and stored (NO from step  1716 ), then a method can continue to a next sense region (step  1718 ) and repeat steps  1710 ,  1712 ,  1714 , and  1716 . However, if limits for all sense regions have been created and stored, an indicator can be activated (step  1720 ), signifying a hand position has been programmed. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are well suited to performing various other steps or variations of the steps recited herein, and in a sequence other than that depicted and/or described herein. 
     For purposes of clarity, many of the details of the various embodiments and the methods of designing and manufacturing the same that are widely known and are not relevant to the present invention have been omitted from the following description. 
     It should be appreciated that reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, it is emphasized and should be appreciated that two or more references to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” or “an alternative embodiment” in various portions of this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined as suitable in one or more embodiments of the invention. 
     Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention. 
     It is also understood that the embodiments of the invention may be practiced in the absence of an element and/or step not specifically disclosed. That is, an inventive feature of the invention can be elimination of an element. 
     Accordingly, while the various aspects of the particular embodiments set forth herein have been described in detail, the present invention could be subject to various changes, substitutions, and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.