GB2479140A - Boxing training apparatus including video display screen and boxing pads - Google Patents

Abstract

A boxing training apparatus comprises a screen 102 for displaying video, and boxing pads 106 disposed at the sides of the screen. The video comprises a moving image of a boxing coach (not shown), and the apparatus is arranged to allow a visual interaction between the image of the boxing coach and the boxing pads 106 in order to give a visual impression that the coach is holding the pads during at least some parts of the video playback. The boxing pads 106 may be removable, and may be mounted on arms 104 having clamps 108 for adjusting the lengths of the arms, said clamps being lever-operated to facilitate operation whilst wearing boxing gloves. The apparatus may include a control console 111 comprising large buttons 110 to facilitate operation whilst wearing boxing gloves. The apparatus may include a USB port 112 and USB memory device 114 for uploading videos. The USB port 112 and USB memory device 114 may have corresponding tapered sides (116, 118, fig. 2) to facilitate easy insertion of the USB memory device whilst wearing boxing gloves.

Description

Boxing training pads with graphic boxing coach simulation

Background of the Invention

[11 The present invention relates to boxing training and in particular to spar partner simulation during boxing training.

[21 Means for measuring the impact of and responding to a punch during boxing training are known in the art. For example, EJS2008098797 to Considine et. al. discloses impact-sensing and measurement systems for use in activities that involve exchanges of impacts or blows. The system generally includes at least one impact sensor, a controller, and a feedback device. The controller is in communication with the at least one impact sensor, and includes a microprocessor having a control program software executed thereon at least for processing data from the at least one impact sensor. The feedback device is in communication with the controller and is configured to produce an audio and/or video output, based on impact data produced by the impact sensor upon sensing an impact and processed by the first controller. The controller can be programmed to provide specialized training regimens and/or interactive training programs, such as over a computer network.

[3] Simulation computer games for boxing are also known in the art. For example JP 9173645 to Sakakawa discloses a punch-detecting boxing game comprising a punch buffer mounted to a supporting means at the height of an average person. The punch buffer comprises multiple plural punch detection means for detecting punches, and for controlling the game. The punch detection means are disposed at a multiplicity of locations on the punch buffer, which may have the shape of a person. A screen may be disposed above or near the punch buffer for displaying a video simulation of a sparring partner responding to the punch impacts detected by the punch buffer. The video simulation may also comprise simulations of attacking punches, and a game scoring display.

[4] Furthermore, EP 1206950 to Fukunaga discloses a movement detection system for use in a boxing video game. The detection system individually detects movement in at least two axial directions. A right and a left controller are provided, which generate operation signals based on a game action instruction from a screen. Each controller has a main section in the shape of a glove in which the hand is inserted, and in which is mounted an acceleration sensor that individually detects movement in three axial directions. Each detection signal is an operation signal for a boxing video game.

[5] CN 200977384 to Weizhan discloses a boxing game apparatus comprising an air-filled boxing bag. The invention is characterized in that a plurality of striking areas are arranged on the body of the boxing bag, and a triggering induction component is arranged on the inner wall of the boxing bag corresponding to every striking area. Each triggering induction component is connected with a controller and comprises an inductor and a video indicating component. The video indicating component may be an LED lamp, incandescent bulb, LCD or generator of any light or visual signal. The controller comprises a microprocessor, a loudspeaker connected with the microprocessor, a lamp indicator, a control key, and a power component. The boxing bag is manufactured from PVC using high frequency thermal compression bonding. In use, a boxer responds to audible and visual indications to control a boxing simulation game.

Brief Simmryof the Invention [6] It can be seen from the forgoing that there is a growing need to accurately simulate interaction with a boxing coach. It can further be seen that there is a prevalent need to make such boxing coaching entertaining, and realistic. It would be further advantageous for such a sparring simulation to be adjustable to suit the dimensions and skill of the user.

[7] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a boxing training device which realistically simulates a boxing coach, and which is adjustable to suit the dimensions and skill of the user.

[8] To this end, a boxing training device is disclosed comprising: a screen for displaying at least one video; a multiplicity of boxing pads disposed to the sides of said screen; wherein said video comprises a moving image of at least a torso and upper arms of a boxing coach with virtual boxing pads; wherein the upper arms are positioned such that said virtual boxing pads are represented by said boxing pads.

[9] An advantage of the present invention is that the video screen and 3D effect realistically simulate a boxing coach. A yet further advantage is that the adjustable height, removable pads, and spar downloading port allow adjustment to the dimensions and skill of the user. A yet further advantage is that the shape of the downloading port, memory stick and control buttons enable a user to operate all aspects of the device while wearing boxing gloves.

Brief Description of the Several Views of the Drawing [10] The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings, in which: [11] Figure 1 shows the front of the preferred embodiment of the invention; and [12] Figure 2 shows the console of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[13] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, shown in Figures 1-3 wherein like numerals refer to like components, a boxing training device is disclosed comprising: a screen 102 for displaying at least one video; a multiplicity of boxing pads 106 disposed to the sides of said screen; wherein said video comprises a moving image of at least a torso and upper arms of a boxing coach with virtual boxing pads; wherein the upper arms are positioned such that said virtual boxing pads are represented by said boxing pads.

[14] The screen is preferably an LCD screen as known in the art although it may be any other screen capable of displaying a moving image. Most preferably the screen displays a 3D-effect image. This may be created using stereoscopic capture, in conjunction with 3D glasses, or by any means known in the art. A polycarbonate screen protector may be disposed over the screen for protection against misplaced punches.

[15] The at least one video is preferably a selection of videos selectable using the controls described below.

[16] Each said video preferably displays at least a torso and upper arms of a boxing coach simulating a boxing pad workout with the user. The abdomen and legs may also be displayed. The upper arms are positioned when conducting the workout such that the imagined position of the boxer's lower arms and hands holding the virtual boxing pads are in line with the pad arms and actual boxing pads of the device. In this way a user can interact with the video image by punching the actual pads. It will be readily understood that the virtual pads are seen on the screen only when the boxing coach draws his hands close to his torso, and that the virtual pads will leave the screen when the coach is assuming a position to receive a punch. It is at this point that the virtual pads are represented by the actual pads of the device.

[17] Preferably the selection of videos comprise different skill levels, lengths, moves, techniques and the like whereby different aspects of boxing can be practiced.

[18] The videos may be in any format able to display a moving image, but are preferably MPEG digital files. A RAM or other digital memory known in the art is provided for storage of at least one and preferably a multiplicity of videos. Preferably the RAM is connected to a USB port detailed below. A PCB and the circuitry associated with the screen are also provided, as known in the art, and housed in the frame. A graphical user interface (GUI) may be provided to enable navigation between the videos.

[19] Alternatively or additionally, CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes and/or any other format may be used for the videos, and the device may further comprise means for playing such formats as known in the art. The videos may be available online for internet download, in stores for purchase, or the like.

[20] The screen is preferably disposed on a frame 100 which may comprise aluminium, polypropylene or other suitable material.

The frame comprises a mount for the screen and the pad arms, and may house the controls and USB port.

[21] The frame preferably comprises a height adjustment lever 120. An advantage of this is that the height of the frame and thereby the device can be adjusted to suit the user. The lever may be connected to a worm gear or other height adjustment mechanism.

[22] The pads may be any shape but are preferably shaped as shown in the figures. The pads preferably comprise thick foam with a leather cover but may be any suitable material. The pads may also be any standard boxing pads known in the art. The pads are preferably mounted on Velcro mounts 107 attached to the pad arms, whereby the pads are removable. An advantage of this is that multiple users can use their own boxing pads. Alternatively the pads may be permanently affixed, or may be attached by any means known in the art, permanent or removable.

[23] Preferably there are six pads as shown in the figures, comprising three pairs. The uppermost pair are positioned to receive a jab, the middle pair are positioned to receive an uppercut, and the lower pair are positioned to receive a hook.

Alternatively there may be any number of pads which may be positioned in any location at any angle, which position and angle may or may not be adjustable.

[24] The pads are each mounted on a pad arm 104. The pad arms comprise rods which may be curved or angled as shown in the figures, with pad mounts 107 at their ends. The arms may be rigidly affixed to the frame but are preferably slidably mounted thereon, whereby their distance from the screen is adjustable to suit the user. Cam clamps 108 may be used to secure the arms in the required position, or other clamping or securing means known in the art may be used. Preferably the cam clamps comprise levers to operate them. The levers are preferably long and accessible as shown. An advantage of this is that the clamps can be operated while using boxing gloves. The pad arms may have a non-circular cross section to prevent pivotal motion and preserve the angle of the pads. Alternatively the pad arms may be pivotable.

[25] The device preferably further comprises a control console ill comprising large buttons 110. An advantage of this is that the buttons can be operated wearing boxing gloves. The figures show typical navigation buttons up', down' and select' although any type of buttons or control means may be used, such as a joystick, scroll ball, or the like. Preferably the controls are such that they can be operated using boxing gloves.

[26] The device of preferably further comprises a USB port 112 whereby videos can be uploaded. The port is preferably connected to the internal memory of the device. The USB port preferably comprises tapered sides 116 to facilitate insertion of a USB drive while wearing boxing gloves. The device preferably further comprises a tJSB drive 114 comprising tapered sides 118 wherein said drive sides cooperate with the sides of said port, although the port is preferably also compatible with standard USB drives. An advantage of this is that the USB drive can be inserted and removed while wearing boxing gloves.

Claims (7)

1. Claims 1. A boxing training device comprising: a screen for displaying at least one video; and a multiplicity of boxing pads disposed to the sides of said screen; wherein said video comprises a moving image of at least a torso and upper arms of a boxing coach with virtual boxing pads; wherein the upper arms are positioned such that said virtual pads are represented by said pads.
2. 2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a control console comprising large buttons; whereby said buttons can be operated wearing boxing gloves.
3. 3. The device of claim 1 further comprising a USB port whereby videos can be uploaded.
4. 4. The device of claim 3 wherein said USB port comprises tapered sides to facilitate insertion of a USB memory device while wearing boxing gloves.
5. 5. The device of claim 4 further comprising a USB memory device comprising tapered sides wherein said memory device sides cooperate with the sides of said port.
6. 6. The device of claim 1 wherein said pads are removable.
7. 7. The device of claim 1 wherein said boxing pads are mounted on arms, further comprising cam clamps whereby lengths of said arms can be adjusted; wherein said cam clamps comprise levers, whereby said cam clamps can be operated while wearing boxing gloves.