Patent Description:
In tae kwon do it is common for a trainer or coach to use a hand held paddle as a target. The student or trainee attempts to kick the paddle as it is raised, lowered and moved from side to side by the trainer or coach.

Furthermore, <CIT> describes a sports electronic training system, and applications thereof. In an embodiment, the system comprises at least one monitor and an electronic processing device for receiving data from the at least one monitor and providing feedback to an individual based on the received data. The monitor can be a motion monitor that measures an individual's performance such as, for example, speed, pace and distance for a runner.

<CIT> discloses a system for providing physical activity training, such as martial arts training, comprises sensor module to execute real-time measurements of aspect of trainee interaction, where processor monitors the trainee interaction with the target.

The present invention relates to a martial arts target handle, a martial art training system and the method as defined in the corresponding independent claims <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> respectively. The invention relates to a modular tae kwon do paddle. The handle is provided separately from the strike-target portion of the paddle. Alternatively or additionally, Hardware for log-in of a trainee and/or log-in of trainee performance parameters during a workout are housed in the handle. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the hardware includes an accelerometer and/or altimeter and/or CPU and/or power source (e.g. a battery). Furthermore, the CPU includes a clock and a time stamp module adapted to apply a time stamp to the first data output signal and the second data output signal.

A user interface for the trainer is housed in the handle. In some embodiments a waveguide (e.g. optical fiber) protrudes from the handle. Optionally, the waveguide conducts light to a display on the target when the paddle is connected to the handle.

According to another aspect of the invention a strain relief mechanism is positioned between the handle and the target of a tae kwon do paddle. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the strain relief mechanism includes a spring and/or a hinge and/or a flexible polymer. In various embodiments of the invention the strain relief mechanism is provided separately, as part of a handle adapted for connection to a strike-target, as part of a strike-target adapted for connection to a handle, or as an integral part of a fully assembled tae kwon do paddle.

According to another aspect of the invention a hand held martial arts target is equipped with hardware that logs-in a trainee for a training session. According to these aspects trainees are provided with wearable devices adapted to communicate with the hardware that logs in a trainee. According to the invention the hardware for logging in a trainee relies on NFC (near field contact), IR (Infra-red), RF (Radio Frequency), Bluetooth or a physical connection. Alternatively or additionally, hardware for logging of trainee performance parameters during a workout is housed in the handle. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the logging hardware includes an accelerometer and/or altimeter and/or CPU and/or power source (e.g. a battery). Alternatively or additionally, a hand held martial arts target includes a data link to a remote device. According to the embodiments, log files concerning trainee performance during a training session are transmitted to the remote device.

According to another aspect of the invention a method includes transmitting altimeter and accelerometer data to a memory associated with a CPU residing in a hand held target; storing the data in a log file; associating the log file with a user identity acquired by trainee log-in hardware installed in the hand held target to create a user log file; and transmitting the user log file to an external device.

It will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems associated with objective evaluation of trainee performance during a martial arts training session.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems related to breakage of tae kwon do paddle handles and/or reduction of wrist injuries among trainers that hold tae kwon do paddles for trainees during a workout.

In the invention there is provided a martial arts target handle including; (a) an accelerometer providing a first data output signal; (b) an altimeter providing a second data output signal; (c) a CPU receiving and storing the first and second data output signals; and (d) a power source providing power the accelerometer, altimeter and CPU. ISE the handle includes a connector to a strike-target. Alternatively or additionally, the handle is integrally formed with or connected to a strike target. AIAISE the handle includes a display. Alternatively or additionally, the handle includes a wave guide extending from the handle. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the handle includes a connector compatible with an external charging source. Alternatively or additionally, the handle includes a user interface positioned to receive commands from a hand holding the handle.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a martial arts target including: (a) a handle; (b) a strike-target; and (c) a strain relief mechanism positioned between the handle and the strike target. In some embodiments the strain relief mechanism includes a spring. Alternatively or additionally, the strain relief mechanism includes a hinge. Alternatively or additionally, the strain relief mechanism includes a polymer having a <NUM>% compression value (ISO <NUM>) between 105kPA and 347kPA. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the strain relief mechanism includes two pieces that slide against one another.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a martial arts training system including: (a) one or more hand held targets; (b) one or more wearable devices; and (c) trainee log-in hardware installed in the target(s) and the wearable device(s). The trainee log-in hardware includes near field contact (NFC) hardware. In some embodiments active NFC hardware is installed in the target(s) and passive NFC hardware is installed in the wearable device(s). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments passive NFC hardware is installed in the target(s) and active NFC hardware is installed in the wearable device(s). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the target(s) include communication hardware that opens a channel of communication to an external data processing device.

In the invention there is provided a method including: (a) transmitting altimeter and accelerometer data to a memory associated with a CPU residing in a hand held target; (b) storing the data in a log file; (c) associating the log file with a trainee identity acquired by log-in hardware installed in the hand held target to create a trainee log file; and (d) transmitting the trainee log file to an external device. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the external device is external to the hand held target and/or to the system. In some embodiments the transmitting the trainee log file to an external device relies on at least one member of the group consisting of NFC (near field contact), IR (Infra-red), RF (Radio Frequency),Wi-Fi, <NUM>, <NUM>, LTE, Bluetooth and a physical connection. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the memory associated with the CPU includes an integral memory. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the memory associated with the CPU includes a connectable memory. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the external device is a wearable device. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the associating includes applying a time stamp to the log file. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the associating includes assembling two or more log files belonging to a single trainee into a composite trainee log file.

Although suitable methods and materials are described below, methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention. All materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, the terms "comprising" and "including" or grammatical variants thereof are to be taken as specifying inclusion of the stated features, integers, actions or components without precluding the addition of one or more additional features, integers, actions, components or groups thereof. This term is broader than, and includes the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" as defined by the Manual of Patent Examination Procedure of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Thus, any recitation that an embodiment "includes" or "comprises" a feature is a specific statement that sub embodiments "consist essentially of" and/or "consist of" the recited feature.

The phrase "consisting essentially of" or grammatical variants thereof when used herein are to be taken as specifying the stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof but only if the additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, device or method.

The phrase "adapted to" as used in this specification and the accompanying claims imposes additional structural limitations on a previously recited component.

The term "method" refers to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of architecture and/or computer science.

Implementation of the method and system according to embodiments of the invention involves performing or completing selected tasks or steps manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of exemplary embodiments of methods, apparatus and systems of the invention, several selected steps could be implemented by hardware or by software on any operating system of any firmware or a combination thereof. For example, as hardware, selected steps of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected steps of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In any case, selected steps of the method and system of the invention could be described as being performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions.

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, identical and similar structures, elements or parts thereof that appear in more than one figure are generally labeled with the same or similar references in the figures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen primarily for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily to scale. The attached figures are:.

Embodiments of the invention relate to hand held martial arts targets (e.g. tae kwon do paddles), portions thereof, and systems including such targets and methods which use such targets.

Specifically, some embodiments of the invention can be used to log data from a trainee workout and/or contribute to a reduction to wear and tear on the target and/or contribute to a reduction in force transmitted to a hand holding the target.

The principles and operation of hand held martial arts targets (e.g. tae kwon do paddles), portions thereof, systems including such targets and methods which use such targets according to exemplary embodiments of the invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying descriptions.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the following description or exemplified by the Examples.

<FIG> is a schematic representation of a handle of a martial arts target, indicated generally as <NUM>, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. For purposes of this specification and the accompanying claims, the term "handle" indicates that the entire target is a hand held device. This definition excludes pole mounted or platform mounted devices.

Depicted exemplary handle <NUM> includes a main body <NUM> containing electronics components that act in concert to gather data pertaining to trainee performance during a workout.

In the depicted embodiment, one electronics component is an accelerometer <NUM> providing a first data output signal <NUM>. Signal <NUM> indicates strike force of a blow delivered to a strike target.

In the depicted embodiment, another electronics component is an altimeter <NUM> providing a second data output signal <NUM>. In some embodiments altimeter function is provided by an ultrasonic transducer. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, altimeter function is provided by a laser range finder. In some embodiments the altimeter is positioned in the handle so that it can send a signal <NUM> to, and receive a reflection <NUM> of that signal from, the floor. In the depicted embodiment, handle <NUM> is equipped with a rotation mechanism (indicated as dashed line R-R). According to the depicted embodiment, the trainer grasps the handle on the opposite side of line R-R from altimeter <NUM>. The rear portion of the handle containing altimeter <NUM> rotates at line R-R so that signal <NUM> is aimed perpendicular to the floor. In some embodiments the weight of altimeter <NUM> is sufficient to cause the rotation at R-R. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, an additional weight (not depicted) is installed to insure appropriate rotation.

In the depicted embodiment, CPU <NUM> receives and stores first and second data output signals <NUM> and <NUM>. In some embodiments storage is in memory <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, in the depicted embodiment a power source (depicted as battery <NUM>) provides power to accelerometer <NUM>, altimeter <NUM> and CPU <NUM>. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, CPU <NUM> includes a clock <NUM> and a time stamp module <NUM> adapted to apply a time stamp to first data output signal <NUM> and second data output signal <NUM>. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the time stamped signals are stored in memory <NUM>. In some embodiments handle <NUM> includes a connector <NUM> to a strike-target (partially depicted as <NUM>). In some embodiments handle <NUM> is integrally formed with or connected to a strike target (partially depicted as <NUM>).

In the depicted embodiment, handle <NUM> includes a display <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention display <NUM> includes an LCD panel and/or LCD indicators and/or an audio output device such as a buzzer or bell.

In the depicted embodiment, handle <NUM> includes one or more wave guides <NUM> extending from the handle. In the depicted embodiment, handle <NUM> includes one or more light sources <NUM>. In some embodiments wave guide <NUM> is provided as an optical fiber. In some embodiments the wave guide conducts light to one or more trainee facing displays (not depicted) in strike target <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments target <NUM> has a left trainee facing display and a right trainee facing display. In some embodiments the trainee facing display comprises a translucent or transparent panel which is visibly brighter when light from source <NUM> propagates through wave guide <NUM> (e.g. an optical fiber).

In the depicted embodiment, handle <NUM> includes a connector <NUM> compatible with an external charging source. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention connector <NUM> is configured as a USB port or a DC jack. Connection of connector180 to the external power source charges power supply <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments handle <NUM> includes a user interface <NUM> positioned to receive commands from a hand holding the handle. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention interface <NUM> includes a touch screen and/or pushbuttons and/or switches. In some embodiments user interface <NUM> is configured to accept a small number of input commands (e.g. left kick, right kick and a set of predefined combinations (e.g. Left/Left; Left/Right; Right/Left and Right/Right). In some embodiments use of interface <NUM> contributes to a reduction in vocal commands from the trainer to the trainee. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments input of a command via user interface <NUM> operates a light <NUM> causing light to propagate through a wave guide <NUM> to a trainee facing display.

In some embodiments an input received at <NUM> is time stamped by time stamp module <NUM> and stored in memory <NUM>. This practice contributes to an ability to evaluate a trainee in terms of delay between trainer input received at interface <NUM> and impact of a kick as registered by accelerometer <NUM> (which is also time stamped). Alternatively or additionally, this practice contributes to an ability to evaluate a trainee in terms of height (altitude) of a kick as indicated by signal <NUM> of altimeter <NUM> (which is also time stamped) for each trainer input received at interface <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic representation of a martial arts target, indicated generally as <NUM>, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments martial arts target <NUM> is configured as a tae kwon do paddle. Depicted exemplary target <NUM> includes a handle <NUM>, a strike-target <NUM> and a strain relief mechanism <NUM> positioned between handle <NUM> and strike target <NUM>.

In some embodiments strike target <NUM> is padded. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments strike target <NUM> includes one or more trainee facing displays <NUM>. In <FIG> one trainee facing display <NUM> is visible on the front side of strike target <NUM>. In many embodiments, a corresponding trainee facing display is present on the opposite (back) side of strike target <NUM>. In some embodiments display(s) <NUM> are lighted by light propagated from a light source <NUM> through a wave guide <NUM> (See <FIG> and explanation above). In some embodiments at least a portion of the light is visually perceptible to a trainee standing on the opposite side of line F-F relative to strike target <NUM>.

In some embodiments strain relief mechanism <NUM> includes a spring (not depicted). According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the spring includes a leaf spring portion and/or a coil spring portion. The spring is configured and positioned to allow strike target <NUM> to move from side to side relative to handle <NUM> in response to an impact received at impact zone <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments strain relief mechanism <NUM> includes a hinge (not depicted). In some embodiments the hinge is configured and positioned to define a maximum side to side range of motion for strike target <NUM> relative to handle <NUM> in response to an impact received at impact zone <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments strain relief mechanism <NUM> includes a flexible polymer.

Strain relief mechanism <NUM> contributes to a reduction in wear and tear and/or breakage of target <NUM> and/or injuries to the hand and/or wrist of a trainer holding handle <NUM>.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> illustrate a strain relief mechanism of a martial arts target, indicated generally as <NUM> according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Mechanism <NUM> is one exemplary way to provide mechanism <NUM> in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a schematic representation of a strain relief mechanism, indicated generally as <NUM>, of a martial arts target according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. This perspective view shows mechanism <NUM> in conjunction with a strike target <NUM> having a right half (230R) and a left half (<NUM>).

<FIG> is a schematic representation of exemplary strain relief mechanism <NUM> in conjunction with a strike target (Right half 230R is visible in the figure) and a handle <NUM>.

<FIG> is cross sectional view of strain relief mechanism <NUM> of <FIG> through line S-S enlarged to show detail. Depicted exemplary strain release mechanism <NUM> is depicted assembled between two halves of handle <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, retention and engagement by the handle contributes to function of the mechanism.

Depicted exemplary strain release mechanism <NUM> includes two plates <NUM>, each of which has a plate foot <NUM> at the terminus installed in handle <NUM>.

Plates <NUM> protrude from handle <NUM> and extend between right strike target 230R and left strike target <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In the depicted embodiment, plate feet <NUM> are engaged and retained by elastomeric shoes <NUM>. Shoes <NUM> are, in turn, engaged and retained by the two halves of handle <NUM>.

In the depicted embodiment, the two halves of handle <NUM> each include a protrusion 211extending inwardly towards plates <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, there is a space <NUM> between each protrusion <NUM> and plate <NUM>. In some embodiments spaces <NUM> contribute to the function of mechanism <NUM>.

Depicted exemplary mechanism <NUM> includes plate movement governors <NUM> attached to the inner wall of handle <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention plate movement governors <NUM> include springs and/or blocks of elastomeric material. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments mechanism <NUM> includes a support rib <NUM> in the area of resistance.

<FIG> are top views of strain relief mechanism <NUM> in conjunction with a strike target in two different operational states. <FIG> shows mechanism <NUM> at rest and <FIG> shoes mechanism <NUM> responding to a kick or other blow as indicated by leftward facing white arrow.

In <FIG> left and right plate feet (<NUM> and 225R) are aligned and in contact with shoe <NUM> at line X-X. Plates <NUM> and 223R are likewise aligned and coextensive between strike targets <NUM> and 230R. Line Y-Y defines the distal end of both plates <NUM> and 223R.

In response to a kick or other blow delivered to right target 230R, both plates <NUM> and 223R flex leftward as depicted in <FIG>. As they flex, the pates slide along one another so that plate foot <NUM> drops slightly below line X-X and plate foot 225R rises slightly above line X-X. At line Y-Y plate 223R extends slightly beyond Y-Y and plate <NUM> retracts slightly below Y-Y. The motion of plate feet <NUM> and 225R is restricted by shoes <NUM> and/or plate movement governors <NUM>. Shoes <NUM> and/or plate movement governors <NUM> absorb much of the force of the kick (or other blow) that was delivered to target 230R. As a result, less force from the blow is transmitted via handle <NUM> (see <FIG>) to the hand or wrist of a trainer holding handle <NUM>.

Depicted exemplary strain relief mechanism <NUM> includes two pieces 223R and <NUM> that slide against one another.

In some embodiments which include both a strain relief mechanism <NUM> (e.g. <NUM>) and accelerometer <NUM>, accelerometer <NUM> corrects output signal <NUM> to correct for the force absorbed by mechanism <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic representation of a system, indicated generally as <NUM>, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary system <NUM> includes one or more hand held targets <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention targets <NUM> include features described hereinabove in the context of <FIG> and/or 2a and/or 2b and/or 2c and/or 2d.

Depicted exemplary system <NUM> also includes one or more wearable devices <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention wearable devices <NUM> are configured as bracelets (e.g. FIT-BIT or SAMSUNG GEAR FIT) and/or watches (e.g. APPLE watch or SAMSUNG smart watch) and/or rings and/or belts and/or as tags attachable to such items or other articles of clothing.

Depicted exemplary system <NUM> also includes trainee log-in hardware (<NUM> and <NUM>) installed in target(s) <NUM> and wearable device(s) <NUM> respectively.

For simplicity, a single wearable device <NUM> and a single target <NUM> are depicted, although a larger number would typically be present in actual use. In some embodiments many users log in sequentially with one, or a small number, of trainer held targets. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a single user logs in with several trainer held targets concurrently.

In some embodiments trainee log-in hardware (<NUM> and <NUM>) includes near field contact (NFC) hardware. In some embodiments active NFC hardware is installed in target(s) <NUM> and passive NFC hardware is installed in the wearable device(s) <NUM>. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, passive NFC hardware is installed in the target(s) <NUM> and active NFC hardware is installed in the wearable device(s) <NUM>.

In some embodiments target(s) <NUM> include communication hardware <NUM> designed and configured to open a channel of communication <NUM> to an external data processing device <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention external data processing device <NUM> includes a smart phone and/or laptop and/or wearable device and/or desktop computer and/or tablet device and/or a cloud storage device. In some embodiments external data processing device <NUM> includes a first device that receives data via channel <NUM> and relays the data to a second device (e.g. a cloud storage server). According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention channel of communication <NUM> is wireless or wired. In some embodiments we3arable device <NUM> functions also as device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a simplified flow diagram of a method for recording an objective evaluation of a martial arts workout, indicated generally as <NUM>, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary method <NUM> includes transmitting <NUM> altimeter and accelerometer data to a memory associated with a CPU residing in a hand held target. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the altimeter data originates from an ultrasound transducer or laser range finder provided in the hand held target. Depicted exemplary method <NUM> includes storing <NUM> the data in a log file.

Depicted exemplary method <NUM> includes associating <NUM> the log file with a trainee identity acquired by log-in hardware installed in the hand held target to create a trainee log file.

Depicted exemplary method <NUM> includes transmitting <NUM> the trainee log file to an external device.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention transmitting <NUM> the trainee log file to an external device relies on NFC (near field contact) and/or IR (Infra-red) and/or RF (Radio Frequency) and/or Wi-Fi and/or <NUM> and/or <NUM> and/or LTE and/or Bluetooth and/or a physical (wired) connection. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the memory associated with said CPU is an integral memory. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the memory associated with the CPU is a connectable memory (for example a flash drive).

In some embodiments the external device is a wearable device. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments associating <NUM> includes applying a time stamp to the log file. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments associating comprises assembling two or more log files belonging to a single trainee into a composite trainee log file.

Systems and/or targets and/or handles and/or methods described hereinabove are expected to find utility in a variety of martial arts workout settings in which a trainer induces a trainee to deliver a series of blows.

For example, in a tae kwon do training session a trainer stands opposite a trainee.

In some embodiments the trainee approaches and brings a wearable device <NUM> (<FIG>) bearing log-in hardware <NUM> into proximity with matching log-in hardware <NUM> in a target <NUM> held by the trainer. Proximity causes a log-in event which opens a log file in memory <NUM> of CPU <NUM> (<FIG>). According to some exemplary embodiments of the invention the log file is associated with the name of the trainee. According to these embodiments the trainee name is stored in a memory of log-in hardware <NUM>. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the log file is associated with an alphanumeric string. According to these embodiments the alphanumeric string is stored in a memory of log-in hardware <NUM>. Translation of the alphanumeric string to a trainee name is performed later by external device <NUM>. In some embodiments external device <NUM> communicates with a remote server to perform the translation. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, wearable device <NUM> and external device <NUM> are the same device. According to these embodiments, nether trainee name nor alphanumeric string are required for log-in. According to these embodiments, the system presumes that all training sessions associated with a specific wearable device <NUM> belong to the same trainee.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the trainer inputs a "start session" command via user input <NUM> (<FIG>). According to these embodiments, trainee log-in occurs at the end of the session.

Once log-in is complete, the training session begins. The trainer inputs a command via user interface <NUM> (<FIG>). The command input is time stamped and stored in memory <NUM>. The command input also activates a light <NUM> which propagates light via an optical fiber <NUM> (or other waveguide) to a trainee facing display <NUM> (<FIG>).

The trainee sees trainee facing display <NUM> light up. In some embodiments display <NUM> is side specific with respect to strike target <NUM> (i.e. Left or Right). The trainee responds by delivering a kick to impact area <NUM> of strike target <NUM>.

Accelerometer <NUM> (<FIG>) registers acceleration caused by the kick and sends a signal <NUM> to CPU <NUM> which is time stamped and stored in memory <NUM> together with height information provided by altimeter <NUM> as part of signal <NUM>.

Time stamped data concerning trainer inputs and trainee responses in terms of kick strength (as reflected by accelerometer data) and height continues to accumulate in memory <NUM> throughout the training session in a trainee log file.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the end of a session is marked by an "end session" input provided by the trainer via user input <NUM> and/or by trainee log-in (log-out in this case) as described hereinabove.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the trainer sees data on display <NUM> during the training session. Examples of data that can be displayed include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual or average), delay between trainer input and kick delivery (individual or average) and strike height (individual or average).

At the end of the session the log file, associated with a specific trainee and/or a specific wearable device <NUM> (<FIG>) is transmitted via a channel of communication <NUM> to an external device <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention external device <NUM> analyzes the log file and/or compares the log file with previous log files from the same trainee and/or compares the log file with performance data from one or more other trainees. Examples of statistics that can are reported according to various exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual or average), delay between trainer input and kick delivery (individual or average) and strike height (individual or average). Alternatively or additionally, the log file provide s information on misses. For example, if the trainer provided kick left inputs <NUM> times at a height of <NUM> or more and none of those inputs were answered with a kick the system can report no impact at <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments composite data is reported (e.g. strike force as a function of height or strike force as a function of time within the training session).

For example, a boxing trainer stands opposite a trainee.

In some embodiments the trainee approaches and brings a wearable device <NUM> (<FIG>) bearing log-in hardware <NUM> into proximity with matching log-in hardware in a one of two targets <NUM> held by the trainer. Proximity causes a log-in event as described hereinabove. As described above, in other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the trainer inputs a "start session" command via user input <NUM> (<FIG>).

The trainer inputs a command via user interface <NUM> (<FIG>). In some embodiments the two targets share a single interface <NUM>. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, each target has its own interface <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a single log-in as described hereinabove and/or a single "start session" command activates both targets. The command input is time stamped and stored in memory <NUM>. The command input also activates a light <NUM> which propagates light via an optical fiber <NUM> (or other waveguide) to a trainee facing display <NUM> (<FIG>).

The trainee sees trainee facing display <NUM> light up. In some embodiments display <NUM> is side specific with respect to strike target <NUM> (i.e. Left or Right). The trainee responds by delivering a blow to impact area <NUM> of strike target <NUM>.

Accelerometer <NUM> (<FIG>) registers acceleration caused by the punch and sends a signal <NUM> to CPU <NUM> which is time stamped and stored in memory <NUM> together with height information provided by altimeter <NUM> as part of signal <NUM>. Time stamped data concerning trainer inputs and trainee responses in terms of punch strength (as reflected by accelerometer data) and height continues to accumulate in memory <NUM> throughout the training session in a trainee log file. In some embodiments a single log file stores data pertaining to both targets.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the end of a session is marked by an "end session" input provided by the trainer via user input <NUM> and/or by trainee log-in as described hereinabove.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the trainer sees data on display <NUM> during the training session. Examples of data that can be displayed include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual or average), delay between trainer input and punch delivery (individual or average) and strike height (individual or average).

At the end of the session the log file, associated with a specific trainee and/or a specific wearable device <NUM> (<FIG>) is transmitted via a channel of communication <NUM> to an external device <NUM>. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention external device <NUM> analyzes the log file and/or compares the log file with previous log files from the same trainee and/or compares the log file with performance data from one or more other trainees. Examples of statistics that can be reported include, but are not limited to, strike force (individual or average), delay between trainer input and punch delivery (individual or average) and strike height (individual or average). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments composite data is reported (e.g. strike force as a function of height or strike force as a function of time within the training session).

In some embodiments the targets <NUM> are equipped with strain relief mechanisms (e.g. <NUM> in <FIG>). Optionally, use of a strain relief mechanism contributes to an ability of a small trainer to absorb blows delivered by a larger trainee.

Referring again to <FIG>, altimeter <NUM>, accelerometer <NUM>, CPU <NUM> and power source <NUM> are all installed in main body <NUM> of handle <NUM>. Since handle <NUM> is to be held, and moved, by a trainer during a training session, this imposes size and weight limitations on each of the components.

For that reason, commercially available components weighing <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> grams each, or intermediate or lesser numbers of grams, are optionally selected for use in the context of various embodiments of the invention.

For example, in some embodiments the aggregate weight of altimeter <NUM>, accelerometer <NUM>, CPU <NUM> and power source <NUM> is less than <NUM> grams, <NUM> grams, <NUM> grams, <NUM> grams or <NUM> grams or intermediate or lesser number of grams.

In some embodiments power source <NUM> is a battery. In addition to the weight constraints discussed above, some embodiments require the battery to have sufficient life to power other components through one or more training sessions of <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes or <NUM> minutes or intermediate or greater lengths of time.

Alternatively or additionally, batteries with short recharge times relative to the length of a training session are used in some embodiments. For example, a trainer performing <NUM> minute training sessions can work indefinitely with two tae kwon do paddles equipped with handles <NUM> (<FIG>) if the recharge time for power source <NUM> is less than <NUM> minutes. According to these embodiments, the trainer switches the paddle in her hand for the paddle in the charger at the end of each session.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments configuration of other components of the system contribute to an extension in battery life.

For example, use of low power elements such as LEDs in display <NUM> and/or light source <NUM> contributes to a reduction in power consumption that extends battery life. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments light source <NUM> is configured with a duty cycle of less than <NUM>% to further reduce power consumption.

Alternatively or additionally, for example if altimeter <NUM> transmits signal <NUM> only in response to an input from user interface <NUM>, power consumption by the altimeter is reduced, contributing to an increase in battery life.

One example of a commercially available altimeter <NUM> suitable for use in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is TEXAS INSTRUMENTS - PGA450TPWRQ1 (TEXAS INSTRUMENTS; USA). The PGA450-Q1 device is a fully integrated system-on-a-chip analog front-end for ultrasonic sensing and distance measurements.

One example of a commercially available accelerometer <NUM> suitable for use in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is STMICROELECTRONICS LIS3DHTR. The LIS3DH is an ultra-low-power high performance three axes nano accelerometer featuring digital I<NUM>C / SPI serial interface standard output. The LIS3DH three axes accelerometer features ultra-low-power operational modes that allow advanced power saving and smart embedded functions. The LIS3DH accelerometer has dynamically user selectable full scales of ±<NUM> / ±<NUM> / ±<NUM> / ±<NUM> and is capable of measuring applications with output data rates from <NUM> to <NUM>.

One example of a commercially available CPU <NUM> suitable for use in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is STMICROELECTRONICS - STM32L152V8T6-A. This Ultra-Low-Power MCU is ARM® Cortex®-M3-based STM32 using ST's ultra-low-leakage process technology with an innovative autonomous dynamic voltage scaling and <NUM> low-power modes offering platform flexibility to fit any application.

One example of a commercially available power source <NUM> suitable for use in the context of exemplary embodiments of the invention is a SOSHINE RCR123-<NUM>-<NUM> (SOSHINE, Shenzhen, and P. This battery provides 700mAh at <NUM> Volts for up to <NUM> hours with a recharge time of <NUM> hours.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, shoes <NUM> and/or governors <NUM> are constructed of elastomeric polymers. Table <NUM> summarizes the relevant properties of three commercially available elastomeric polymers (PA <NUM>; PA <NUM> and PA <NUM>) produced by the PALZIV group in Israel.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments sheets <NUM> are constructed of nylon and/or polyethylene. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention t hickness is adjusted to achieve the desired degree of flexibility.

In some embodiments preparation and review of a user log file as described hereinabove contributes to an increase in objectivity of evaluation of trainee performance. For example, the user log file clearly indicate limitations on strike height and/or a tendency to tire after a certain amount of time and/or differences in performance between right side and left side.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments comparison of a user log files as described hereinabove for the same user over a period of time contributes to an increase in objectivity of evaluation of trainee performance improvement.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments comparison of a user log files as described hereinabove for different users contributes to an increase in objectivity of ranking of different trainees. This is useful, for example, in seeding competitors for a competition and/or in identifying well matched opponents for a spectator event.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments installation of a strain release mechanism <NUM> in a martial arts target <NUM> contributes to a reduction in damage to the target itself.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments installation of a strain release mechanism <NUM> in a martial arts target <NUM> contributes to a reduction in injury to the hand and/or wrist of a trainer holding the target.

Specifically, a variety of numerical indicators have been utilized. It should be understood that these numerical indicators could vary even further based upon a variety of engineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporated into the various embodiments of the invention. Additionally, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as a single unit may be divided into subunits. Conversely, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as sub-units/individual actions may be combined into a single unit/action with the described/depicted function.

Alternatively, or additionally, features used to describe a method can be used to characterize an apparatus and features used to describe an apparatus can be used to characterize a method.

It should be further understood that the individual features described hereinabove can be combined in all possible combinations and sub-combinations to produce additional embodiments of the invention. The examples given above are exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined solely by the following claims.

Each recitation of an embodiment of the invention that includes a specific feature, part, component, module or process is an explicit statement that additional embodiments of the invention not including the recited feature, part, component, module or process exist. Specifically, the invention has been described in the context of tae kwon do and boxing but might also be used in kick boxing, karate and other martial arts training.

Claim 1:
A martial arts target handle comprising;
(a) an accelerometer (<NUM>) providing a first data output signal (<NUM>);
(b) an altimeter (<NUM>) providing a second data output signal (<NUM>), wherein the altimeter is positioned in the handle to send a signal (<NUM>) to a floor and to receive a reflection (<NUM>) of the signal (<NUM>) from the floor,
(c) a CPU (<NUM>) receiving and storing said first and second data output signals; said CPU comprising a clock (<NUM>) and a time stamp module (<NUM>) adapted to apply a time stamp to said first data output signal and said second data output signal;
(d) a power source (<NUM>) providing power to said accelerometer, altimeter and CPU; and,
(e) a strain relief mechanism (<NUM>) to reduce wear and tear of a target (<NUM>).