WO2009039661A1

WO2009039661A1 - Reaction trainer

Info

Publication number: WO2009039661A1
Application number: PCT/CA2008/001718
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenneth G. Strong; Grant P. Alexander; Steven Mai
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-09-28
Filing date: 2008-09-29
Publication date: 2009-04-02
Anticipated expiration: 2010-03-28
Also published as: WO2009039661A8; CA2679974A1

Abstract

A reaction training system having a playing surface, and a plurality of reaction pods in communication with a programmable controller. The reaction pods each have an indicator light controlled by the controller and a reaction sensor monitored by the controller, the reaction sensor triggered by a sports article such as a puck or ball attached to the reaction pod. The controller can be programmed to execute a training program which activates an indicator light on different reaction pods in turn. The reaction time for an athlete to respond by touching or hitting the sports article is measured and logged by the controller. The logged data is identified by athlete and data and time and can be compiled and analyzed and displayed for monitoring training progress.

Description

REACTION TRAINER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from US Application No. 60/960,428.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to sports training equipment and more particularly, to a reaction trainer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In many sports, strength, dexterity and fast reflexes are valuable attributes for athletes. Reaction time training tools can work on the visual aspect of reaction time but use response triggers which use muscle groups which are different from the muscle groups used in a real sports situation. Peripheral vision testing and training tools, such as those used for driver license testing, often use artificial environments that do not adequately reflect a real environment.

[0004] Accordingly, an improved reaction training system remains highly desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved reaction training system and method.

[0006] Accordingly, an aspect of the present invention provides reaction training system comprising: a plurality of pods, each pod having an indicator and a reaction sensor; a controller in communication with said pods, said controller configured to activate the indicator on one of said pods and measure a reaction time between said activating and triggering of the reaction sensor of said one of said pods.

[0007] In some embodiments, the reaction sensor is a proximity sensor.

[0008] In some embodiments, the reaction sensor is triggered by interrupting a light beam. [0009] In some embodiments, the reaction sensor is triggered by displacing a sports-related article moveably attached to said pod.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sports-related article is selected from a ball and a puck.

[0011] In some embodiments, the indicator comprises a light.

[0012] In some embodiments, the controller is a programmable computer.

[0013] In some embodiments, the programmable computer is configured to accept training routines.

[0014] In some embodiments, the training routines comprise a predetermined sequence of pods to be activated in turn.

[0015] In some embodiments, the programmable computer is configured to log said reaction time along with a training session identifier and a player identifier.

[0016] In some embodiments, the programmable computer is configured retrieve said logged data and display said logged data in a user friendly manner.

[0017] In some embodiments, the controller is in communication with said pods via a wired connection.

[0018] In some embodiments, the controller is in communication with said pods via a wireless connection.

[0019] In some embodiments, the wireless connection comprises an industry-standard protocol.

[0020] Some embodiments further comprise a playing surface, wherein said pods are positioned on the playing surface.

[0021] In some embodiments, the playing surface is selected from the group of artificial ice, wood, artificial grass, rubber, ice and grass.

[0022] A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for response training of a sport player. The method comprises: providing a plurality of pods, each pod having an indicator and a reaction sensor; providing a controller in communication with said pods; activating the indicator on a first one of said pods; and measuring a first reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said first one of said pods.

[0023] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: activating the indicator on a second one of said pods; and measuring a second reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said second one of said pods.

[0024] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time.

[0025] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time for each of a plurality of training sessions along with corresponding time and date information.

[0026] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: retrieving said logged first reaction time and second reaction time; displaying said retrieved logged data in graphical form as a function of each training session.

[0027] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time for each of a plurality of players along with a corresponding identifier for said each of said players.

[0028] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: receiving instructions to said controller for a sequence of activations of said indicators on said pods; and storing said instructions at said controller.

[0029] Some embodiments further comprise steps of: responsive to said triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said first one of said pods, activating the indicator on a second one of said pods; and measuring a second reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said second one of said pods. - A -

[0030] In some embodiments, the second one of said pods is selected from said plurality of pods in a predetermined manner.

[0031] Another aspect of the present invention provides a reaction training pod for use in the reaction training system described. The reaction training pod comprises: a frame; an indicator mounted on said frame; a reaction sensor mounted on said frame, wherein said indicator and said sensor are in communication with a controller of said reaction training system.

[0032] Another aspect of the present invention provides a reaction training system comprising: a plurality of stations, each station having an indicator and a reaction sensor; a controller in communication with the stations, the controller configured to activate the indicator on one of the stations and measure a reaction time between the activating and triggering of the reaction sensor of the corresponding station.

[0033] In some embodiments, the reaction sensor is triggered by displacing a game element moveably attached to the station.

[0034] In some embodiments, the game element is selected from a ball and a puck.

[0035] In some embodiments, the indicator comprises a visual indicator.

[0036] In some embodiments, the visual indicator comprises motion of a game element.

[0037] In some embodiments, the station comprises a pod.

[0038] In some embodiments, the station comprises a designated location.

[0039] In some embodiments, the designated location is on a playing surface.

[0040] In some embodiments, the designated location is on a wall.

[0041] In some embodiments, the controller is a programmable computer.

[0042] In some embodiments, the programmable computer is configured to accept training routines. [0043] In some embodiments, the training routines comprise a predetermined sequence of stations to be activated in turn.

[0044] In some embodiments, the controller is in communication with the stations via a wired connection.

[0045] In some embodiments, the controller is in communication with the stations via a wireless connection.

[0046] Some embodiments further comprise a playing surface, wherein the stations are positioned on said playing surface.

[0047] In some embodiments, the playing surface is selected from the group of artificial ice, wood, artificial grass, rubber, ice and grass.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which:

[0049] FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of the reaction training system of the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of a pod of the reaction training system;

[0051] FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective cut-away view of a pod;

[0052] FIG. 4A is an exemplary illustration of a plan view of the reaction sensor of a pod, in an activated position;

[0053] FIG. 4B is an exemplary illustration of a plan view of the reaction sensor of a pod, in an un-activated position;

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the monitor mode of the controller of the reaction training system; [0055] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the teach mode of the controller;

[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the save mode of the controller;

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the teach overview mode of the controller;

[0058] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the load mode of the controller;

[0059] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the Scoreboard mode of the controller;

[0060] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary screen image of the expanded Scoreboard mode of the controller;

[0061] FIG. 12 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of a pod of the reaction training system, adapted to provide a home area stand;

[0062] FIG. 13 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of another embodiment of a pod of the reaction training system;

[0063] FIG. 14 is an exemplary illustration of a perspective cut-away view of the pod of FIG. 13; and

[0064] FIG. 15 is an exemplary illustration of a plan view of the reaction sensor of the pod of FIG. 13.

[0065] It will be noted that, throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0066] It should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including", "comprising", or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms "connected", "coupled", and "mounted," and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms "connected" and "coupled" and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Furthermore, and as described in subsequent paragraphs, the specific mechanical configurations illustrated in the drawings are intended to exemplify embodiments of the invention. However, other alternative mechanical con figurations are possible which are considered to be within the teachings of the instant disclosure. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the term "or" is to be considered inclusive.

[0067] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures.

[0068] Fast reflexes or reaction times are valuable attributes for players in many sports. Reaction times depend on the reaction times of a player's eyes and also the reflexes of muscles. The present invention provides a training system to exercise a player's reactions in using the same muscles as would be used in a game situation. Visual cues or prompts are supplied to a player who is then required to react using the same muscles he would in a real game situation such as touching or moving a puck attached to a sensor arm.

[0069] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a reaction training system 100 having a playing surface 101 with training pods 103 on the periphery and a training controller 113. In this embodiment the reaction training system is set up for hockey training and the playing surface 101 is artificial ice. The artificial ice can be provided by a substrate that is made of moldable synthetic resin, which may include anyone or more of high density polyethylene, polypropylene and fluorinated polyethylene, which provides a suitable operative hockey playing surface. The substrate may be in a single sheet or in the form of a modular panel assembly comprising a plurality of panels of uniform size or non-uniform size with confronting edges or edges of interlocking relationship. [0070] In use, an athlete 105 wears skates and carries a hockey stick 107. The athlete 105 starts the training session at a home position, facing pod 103F, to simulate a face-off situation. This helps encourage awareness of the entire game surface in real game situations. In this position, the athlete is encouraged to look over his shoulder to be aware of the pods behind him. The training session is activated at controller 113. When the athlete is ready, he (or she) touches the puck of pod 103F at the home position, with his hockey stick to start the training session, at which time an indicator light will activate on one of the training pods 103A, 103B, 103C, 103D, 103E, as determined by a training routine programmed into controller 113. The athlete 105 then skates towards the training pod having a lit indicator light, and activates the reaction sensor of that pod by touching or hitting the puck as will be described in more detail below. The athlete 105 then returns to the home position as quickly as possible, to touch the puck of pod 103F. The controller 113 then activates the indicator light on another pod as determined by the programmed training sequence.

[0071] It will be appreciated that the pod 103F described in the previous paragraph could be alternatively adapted to provide a home area stand 307 as shown in FIG. 12. When the athlete is ready at the home position, then a proximity sensor 309 mounted to the body of the pod 103F detects the presence of the athlete, and cause the start of the training session. The proximity sensor 309 could be any commercially available programmable area laser scanner such as those sold under the brand name SICK®. An advantage of using such a proximity sensor is that the athlete position in the home area will be detected when the athlete is in a desired orientation to the apparatus. In other words, the athlete is not obliged to adopt an undesired orientation or carry out an undesired movement in order to establish his or her presence in the home position.

[0072] Alternatively the home position can be determined by optical sensor system 109. With this configuration the athlete 105 would interrupt light beam 111 of optical sensor system 109 to indicate to the controller 113, that he was leaving or entering the home position. In another alternative embodiment, the reaction sensor comprises a pressure sensitive mat, shown as 133, connected to pod 103F.

[0073] The training pods will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. Training pod 103 is of heavy-duty construction with pylon 203 and supports 204 mounted to heavy base plate 205. A layer of insulation material 303 (as shown best in FIG. 14) may be attached to or layered below the base plate to reduce degradation of the training surface, such as excessive or unwanted melting of ice, under the pod 103, such as an ice surface, which could be caused by operating the pod 103. The pylon 203 has indicator light 201 mounted on top such that it can be oriented to face the athlete 105 on the reaction training system 100. The reaction sensor has a puck 209 attached to reaction arm 211. The rest of the reaction sensor system is housed under cover 207.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, reaction arm 211 can rotate about pivot 213 when puck 209 is struck by the athlete's hockey stick 107. When reaction arm 211 is rotated, the tip 212 moves away from proximity sensor 215 thus activating the proximity sensor which transmits a signal to controller 113. The reaction arm 211 is the returned to a neutral position by springs 217. Stops 219 limit the range of motion of reaction arm 211. FIG. 4A shows a plan view of the reaction sensor in an activated position and FIG. 4B shows a plan view of the reaction sensor in a neutral position.

[0075] Turning now to FIGS. 13-15, in another embodiment, the reaction sensor system may alternatively comprise a sheathed spring 305 which is connected in a linear fashion to reaction arm 211. In this embodiment, reaction arm 211 does not rotate in a pendulum motion, but instead moves on a linear plane in the direction "A" as shown on FIG. 15. When reaction arm 211 is engaged by the athlete, the reaction arm 211 causes the sheathed spring 305 to be compressed, activating a proximity sensor 215 which transmits a signal to controller 113. The reaction arm 211 is returned to a neutral position by the return of the sheathed spring 305 to its original uncompressed position. An advantage of constraining movement to a linear plane is that this more correctly captures and measures movement in the direction of this plane when such linear movements are desired, in comparison to a pendulum motion which may react in an undesired way to force vectors that are not in a desired linear plane.

[0076] In the above example, the puck 209 represents a sports-related article or game element. In other embodiments, the reaction training system of the present invention is configured for other sports such as but not limited to: basketball, tennis, football, soccer. In these other embodiments, the puck can be replaced with another sports-related article or game element, such as a basketball, a basketball hoop, a tennis ball, a soccer ball, a football, or a football tackling target to represent a an opposing football player, etc.

[0077] For example, the reaction training system can be configured for basketball, by providing playing surface 101 as hardwood to simulate or duplicate the playing surface of a basket ball court. Reaction pods 103 can be equipped as shown in dashed outline on pod 103A of FIG. I₁ where a basketball hoop 117 and associated backboard 115 is mounted on pod 103A. In this case, athlete 105 would wear appropriate footwear and would react to activation of indicator light 201 on pod 103A by shooting basketball 118 into hoop 117 and triggering reaction sensor by way of sensor arm 119.

[0078] In another basketball scenario, a basketball can be moveably attached to the pod, and the basketball can be the target for the athlete to touch.

[0079] In another embodiment, the reaction trainer can be configured for tennis by providing a playing surface 101 comprising grass, clay, asphalt, rubber or other material to simulate or duplicate the playing surface of a tennis court. Reaction pods 103 can be equipped as shown in dashed outline on pod 103B of FIG. I₁ where a tennis ball 121 is mounted on sensor arm 123 which is moveably affixed to pod 103B. In this case, athlete 105 would react to activation of indicator light 201 on pod 103B by using a tennis racquet (not shown) to hit tennis ball 121 mounted on sensor arm 123 which would trigger reaction sensor.

[0080] In another embodiment, the reaction trainer can be configured for soccer by providing a playing surface 101 comprising grass, artificial grass, rubber or other material to simulate or duplicate the playing surface of a soccer field. Reaction pods 103 can be equipped as shown in dashed outline on pod 103C of FIG.1 , where soccer ball 127 is attached to a sensor arm (not shown) moveably affixed to pod 103C sensor arm. hi this case, athlete 105 would react to activation of indicator light 201 on pod 103C by running up to soccer ball 127 and kicking it, thereby triggering reaction sensor of pod 103C.

[0081] In another embodiment, the reaction trainer can be configured for football by providing a playing surface 101 comprising grass, artificial grass, rubber or other material to simulate or duplicate the playing surface of a soccer field. Reaction pods 103 can be configured to provide a football mounted on a sensor arm for triggering by athlete 105, similarly to the previous example of a soccer configuration. Alternatively, the reaction training system can be equipped with reaction pods 129 having a tackling target 131 mounted on a sensor arm as shown in dashed outline in FIG.1. The reaction pods can be constructed of heavy-duty materials to withstand the high forces of a football tackle and can be suitably weighted or rigidly affixed to playing surface 101 to prevent or minimize movement during operation. In this case, athlete 105 would react to activation of indicator light 201 on pod 129 by running up to and tackling target 131 , thereby triggering reaction sensor of pod 129. As can be seen in this example, pods can have any of a variety of physical shapes suited to accommodate the functions of an indicator and a reaction sensor.

[0082] In other embodiments, the indicator can be a visual indicator or an auditory indicator such as a bell, buzzer, speaker or other sound-producing device. A visual indicator can include for example, but not limited to, a light source such as a lamp, light emitting diode (LED), or other light source; or could comprise an indicator which changes color or contrast; or alternatively a visual indicator can create motion such as waving a flag or moving the sports related article or game element.

[0083] In the above embodiments, the reaction sensor functions to sense input from athlete 105. The reaction sensor can be contact sensitive, pressure sensitive, proximity sensitive, motion sensitive as appropriate as will be well understood by persons skilled in the art. The reaction sensor can provide an electrical contact closure, a change in electrical capacitance or inductance or provide a radio frequency signal to controller 113. Controller 113 would be configured to accept the signal from the reaction sensors by way of a sensing interface such as for example, but not limited to, sensing circuitry.

[0084] In another embodiment of the reaction trainer, the pods 103 are mounted or positioned directly on an existing playing surface. In this arrangement, the pods 103 can advantageously be configured to communicate wirelessly with controller 113 to reduce a possible tripping hazard. Both inputs and outputs may be wirelessly transmitted. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, wireless antennas 301 (which are attached to wireless transmitters/receivers) may be attached to each pod 103, together with power supply 311. Power supply 311 may be, for example, a 24 volt battery pack or any suitable power supply known to those of skill in the art.

[0085] In embodiments where a playing surface is provided as part of the training system, the pods can be configured to communicate via wires to the controller 113 to reduce interface costs, and the communicating wires can be routed underneath playing surface 101.

[0086] In another embodiment, the pods can be mounted on a vertical surface such as a wall.

[0087] In other embodiments, the indicator and corresponding reaction sensor are grouped as a "station". A station can be a pod or a designated location such as a location on the playing surface or on a wall or other surface.

[0088] The system uses a simple user-friendly interface. Computer communications capabilities such as, but not restricted to: Ethernet, WiFi, RS232, USB, or Bluetooth can be used to provide flexibility for future expansion such as additional attributes and data manipulation options. The system is well- suited to use by a high volume of students for various training regimes both in terms of duration and levels of use. The user-friendly interface aids in the ease of creating, saving routines and events, as well as displaying the training results for easy documentation by the coach.

[0089] In one embodiment the controller 113 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) such as a Micrologix® 1100 PLC with Panelview® Plus 600 Operator Interface, marketed by Rockwell Automation. The Panelview communicates via Ethernet protocol to the Micrologix PLC. The Ethernet interface permits easy communication with an external computer such as a personal computer (P. C.) to allow for sharing of training programs and individual athlete training data. The PanelView 600 Touch terminal provides a color graphic display in a compact size with a 6.0" diagonal color display and 320x324 pixel resolution. The controller 113 can store up to 30 routines and each routine can contain up to 99 steps from the start position. A move can be approximately 1 second therefore 1 routine could be up to 100 seconds. This is should be adequate because a hockey shift is typically 30 to 45 seconds in duration. [0090] The controller 113 and its associated components are, in this case, computer implemented and may be provided in a number of forms. They may be embodied in a software program configured- to run on one or more general purpose computers, such as a personal computer, or on a single custom built computer, such as programmed logic controller (PLC) which is dedicated to the function of the system alone, as described above. The system may, alternatively, be executed on a more substantial computer mainframe. The general purpose computer may work within a network involving several general purpose computers, for example those sold under the trade names APPLE or IBM, or clones thereof, which are programmed with operating systems known by the trade names WINDOWS, LINUX or other well known or lesser known equivalents of these. The system may involve pre-programmed software using a number of possible languages or a custom designed version of a programming software sold under the trade name ACCESS or similar programming software. The computer network may be a wired local area network, or a wide area network such as the Internet, or a combination of the two, with or without added security, authentication protocols, or under "peer-to-peer" or "client-server" or other networking architectures. The network may also be a wireless network or a combination of wired and wireless networks. The wireless network may operate under frequencies such as those dubbed "radio frequency' or "RF" using protocols such as the 802.11 , TCP/IP, BLUE TOOTH and the like, or other well known Internet, wireless, satellite or cell packet protocols.

[0091] For the purposes of this invention, a Step is considered as one incremental move from one pod to another, and a routine is a collection of steps creating a single pattern. An event is a collection of different routines creating the overall workout sequence.

[0092] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary "Main" screen image 500 of the monitor mode of the touch screen interface of the controller of the reaction training system. This screen is the default screen on start-up. The main window 501 depicts the approximate layout of the reaction pods to visually engage the user. Note that the layout of the pods on the playing surface can be in any arrangement such as, but not limited to, a straight line, an arc, a circle, a rectangle, or widely dispersed on a larger playing surface such as a hockey rink. In the example of FIG. 1 , the face-off position is tagged as POD #1. The other pods are numbered #2 to #6, clockwise from face-off (home) position. A typical user would be a coach who would program and control the system for training routines for athletes or students. Alternatively, athletes could use the system in an autonomous fashion. The screen 500 provides various options to the user by way of a touch sensitive display configured to simulate definable "button" areas on the screen: "Load" 503 - to load an existing program; "Teach" 505 enter a programming mode to develop a training sequence; "Score Board"(or "Stat") 507 - to display measured results or statistics for a training routine; and "Stop/Reset" (or "End Routine") 509 - to stop execution of the routine.

[0093] Once a routine is loaded, the system is active and the routine' can be started anytime by the player or athlete, by activating the first reaction sensor, typically that of the home position pod 103F. In this way, the system is always ready to begin a training routine, which can be advantageous in a high traffic flow scenario such as a team training or training school environment, where there might be many players using the reaction trainer system, one after the other.

[0094] In monitor mode, the icon representing the current target pod for the player can be highlighted in green, to provide visual indication to the coach, where the player should be moving to, and the next target pod can be highlighted in orange, for example, to provide the coach with advance notice as to the direction the player will have to move to respond the subsequent indicator. This can allow the coach to keep one step ahead of the player in order to analyze the player's responses to the targets pods.

[0095] Creating a routine begins by pressing the "Teach" button 505. This action will cause the controller 113 to enter the teach mode and display the "Teach" screen 600 as shown in FIG. 6. A routine is then created by selecting reaction pods in a desired sequence to build the routine, by touching the corresponding icon 603 (A, B, C, D, E, F) on screen 600. Each icon is highlighted when selected. As a target pod 603 is selected for each step in the routine, the associated step number is incremented and displayed at 613, and the pod identifier the step moves from is displayed at 615 and the pod identifier the step moves to is displayed at 617. [0096] When programming of the routine is complete, it is saved by selecting "Save" 605, which will cause the controller 113 to enter the save mode and display the "Save" screen 700 as shown in FIG. 7. From this screen, a routine identifier can be selected from the list displayed at 701 , by manipulating cursor 703 using cursor control touch-keys 705, 707, 709, and 71 1. Once the desired routine identifier is selected, the "Save" touch-key 713 is touched for three seconds to associate the just-programmed routine with the selected routine identifier which is confirmed at 717. Touch-key 715 will return the display to "Teach" screen 600.

[0097] From "Teach" screen 600, selecting "Reset Routine" 619 will cancel the programming of the routine and reset the routine to the start. Selecting "Close" 609 will return to the monitor mode screen 500.

[0098] From "Teach" screen 600, the current routine can be viewed by touching touch-key "Overview" 607, which will bring up the "Teach Overview" screen 800 as shown in FIG. 8. A subset of the steps of the current routine is displayed in window 801. The step numbers are displayed at 803 along with the corresponding pod identifiers for the "from" pods 805 and "to" pods 807. The display can scroll through the range of all the steps in the routine by scroll touch- keys 809, 81 1 , 813, 815. Touch-key 817 will return the display to "Teach" screen 600.

[0099] From the "Main" screen 500, touching the "Load" touch-key 503 will bring up "Load" screen 900 as shown in FIG. 9. A routine identifier can be selected from the list displayed at 901 , by manipulating cursor 903 using cursor control touch-keys 90S, 907, 909, and 911. Once the desired routine identifier is selected, the" Load" touch-key 913 is touched for three seconds to load the selected routine identifier which is confirmed at 917. From the "Load" screen, "Run" Touch-key 916 will initiate the selected routine. The selected sequence of indicators and reaction timing events will then start when the athlete 105 activates or triggers the first reaction sensor. Touch-key 915 will return the display to "Main" screen 500.

[00100] From the "Main" screen 500, touching the "Score Board" touch-key 503 will bring up the "Score Board" screen 1000 as shown in FIG. 10. This screen displays measured results from an athlete's reaction training session. Window 1001 displays the current routine number and step number as well as identifying the "from" pod 1003 and the "to" pod 1005. The measured data from the last step is displayed, including the "from" pod identifier 1007 and the "to" pod identifier 1009 and the athlete's measured reaction time 1011 for the last step. The total measured time for the last routine is displayed at 1013, and the time for the best measured time for a routine is displayed at 1015.

[00101] If more details of the measured reaction times of the routine are required, touch-key "More" 1019 is selected to bring up the "Expanded Scoreboard" screen 1 100 as shown in FIG. 11. From this screen the measured reaction times of each step of the current routine can be displayed. The current routine is displayed at 1101 and the total measured reaction time for the routine is displayed at 1 103. Step numbers 1105, "from" pod 1107, "to" pod 1109 and the corresponding measured reaction time 1111 are displayed. Cursor control touch-keys 1113, 1115, 1117, and 1119 can be used to scroll through the entire range of step identifies.

[00102] Other functions and features can be implemented as required in this system as is well known the art of data collection and user interface programming. For example, events can be created by selecting and compiling various routines into a single event. Creating an event begins with selecting the create a routine key. When the sequence of steps is selected for the routine, the routine is named and saved. These routines are stored and selected from to create an event which will run the random routines as a training exercise.

[00103] In one embodiment, the controller 113 comprises a PLC The PLC stores the move positions in the data table of the routine number in the following format: The start will be home (1). The next pod entered will shift the start position 4 bits and store the new position in the 1st 4 bits in the word. Thus the 1st 4 bits store the destination pod no. and bits 4 to 8 store the start target pod number. This process continues for the complete sequence, i.e.: If the sequence is 1 to 2 to 1 to 3 to 1 to 4 to 1 to 5 to 1 to 6 to 1 , then the PLC data table will store the data as starting at word 00 and increment of 1 word with the data: 01/ 12 / 21 / 13 / 31 / 14 / 41 / 15 / 51 / 16 / 61 . This will enable the PLC to store each move and allow a query for each move or sort on each move, etc. [00104] In one embodiment, the coach will be able to store each routine into 1 of the 30 possible storage routines. The coach can recall and run a routine as required. To run a routine, the coach will set the athlete on the trainer, and make sure they are ready. The coach will load the routine and press the "start" PB to start the program execution.

[00105] The controller 1 13 will light the home (#1) target and wait for the athlete to hit the home target to start the timing of the routine. After the home (#1) target is sensed, its light will turn off and the next target will be turned on. When the 2nd target is hit its light will turn off and the next target will be turned on. The sequence is complete when the PLG sees a 0 target in the target field. The timer has a resolution of .01 second. The PLC stores the athletes' times in data tables. As each move is completed the PLC will store the accumulated time from 0 and the response time of that move from the previous target.

[00106] A chart can display the information in the following format:

[0100] This data is stored in data tables in the PLC. The coach can view this data and write the data down for future reference. The PLC can store the last 10 routines. A PC can be added as an option to automatically store all the data above in a PC database, to allow better graphing and better data analysis. The coach can enter a routine on a Panelview touch-screen by selecting teach mode and pressing the targets on the touch screen in a desired sequence to build the routine. The PLC (controller) stores the target positions in the data table of the routine number as entered. The coach can store each routine into 1 of the 30 possible storage routines. The coach can recall and run a routine as required. [0101] In an embodiment of the invention, the following attribute data are collected for each cycle: Total time in seconds for each step; Total and average time to perform each step within the routine; Total and average time to perform each routine within the event; Student/athlete ID with data links for long term collection for future analysis.

[0102] In one embodiment of the present invention, the response trainer or reaction trainer has a playing surface or platform in the shape of a half circle and around this half circle there are 5 pods each with a light at the top which sits 4 feet high and at the base, a puck protruding out 12 inches from its pod. The home position pod sits along the middle of the straight edge of the half circle and the other pods are 12 feet from the home position pod, at various angles either sideways or forwards (they can be placed in any direction or sequence to meet the demands of the exercise required to train for a particular sport). There is a computerized program that is set and the athlete will start at home base and when a light turns on from one of the 5 pods the player or athlete must read and react quickly to skate to the pod and hit the puck to trigger the reaction sensor and return to the base position. As soon as he has reached the base another light goes on and the athlete goes through the same process. With this program, any sequence and any number of repetitions can be set. The program can also be set such that in the athlete does not have to return to base.

[0103] The reaction trainer can address the need for developing peripheral vision to improve reaction time and to develop quick feet and agility.

[0104] The response trainer can provide measurable results through its computer program, which can report data in a variety of useful formats. Because the surface is artificial ice and the athlete has skates on, the response trainer can e used to measure and log athletes' weaknesses, such as skating. This machine can help develop peripheral vision, reaction time, mobility and agility and quick feet needed to be an elite player.

[0105] Even at professional level, there is a lack of advanced skills training. An athlete must read and react quickly in all directions. The computer data from the response/reaction trainer can for example report a skater's weaker side through time taken to skate from home base to one of the pods and back. This information can be used to help a coach or trainer develop a training program to correct and develop an athlete's weakness.

[0106] The response/reaction trainer can offer game like simulation. A touch-screen computer/controller simplifies training program entry for each athlete or can be set for a common training program for all athletes during a single training session, for example. The pods are of heavy duty construction and made with industrial strength materials designed to accept heavy punishment because they house the sensor system and the lights. The sensor mechanism in this case uses a puck to interface with the player or athlete, who must shoot or hit the puck with his hockey stick. The computer/controller can be a PC compatible computer to offer flexibility and computer communications capabilities to upload player training data and training programs. The pods are interchangeable and can be placed in any position to simulate the game situation. The pods can be arranged in a straight line or can be distributed on a hockey rink surface. If the pods are spaced further apart, the reaction trainer system can measure not only reaction time but also skating speed

[0107] The response/reaction trainer can accommodate a wide range of athletes and students ranging in ages from 10 to 18 years old and adults as well. The skating substrate can be a synthetic ice which is produced to various thicknesses and can be installed directly onto concrete floors. These synthetic ice sheets come in standard sizes of 45" x 90" and utilize a dovetail joint to simplify installation.

[0108] The response/reaction training device can be effectively utilized in manual operation but can also be interfaced with programmable controllers. Ethernet or other computer interface capability enables precise data collection and delivery to statistical data bases validating an athlete's or student's performance improvements. Data attributes can include but not limited to acceleration, response time, strength, endurance and precision. This data can be exported to MS Excel or equivalent for collecting the data in a database and for statistical analysis enabling graphing, trending etc. for the duration of the student's enrolment in a training program.

[0109] The response/reaction trainer can provide the student/athlete with response/reaction training by means of an intelligent skating pod integrated with sensing devices such as pressure sensitive mats to enable random prompts in different directions, which the student must disable by running over the device.

[0110] In one embodiment, the skating surface of the hockey version of the response/reaction trainer covers approx 800 sq ft with a rubber substrate embedded with the pressure sensitive mats. In this embodiment, one or more of the reaction sensors are pressure sensitive mats connected to and associated with a reaction pod.

[0111] The Response trainer can be used as a tool to enhance peripheral vision and the reaction time associated with it. In one embodiment, the system includes six pods, each with an indicator light and a hockey puck that acts as a trigger to advance the training routines. The exercise consists of skating to the pod which is illuminated and then to the next one until the event is complete. Home position simulates a face-off situation and can be used as the default start position. The home position puck once touched, activates the series of steps.

[0112] While the present invention has been described for what are presently considered the preferred embodiments, the invention is not so limited. To the contrary, the invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

[0113] The embodiment(s) of the invention described above is (are) intended to be exemplary only. The scope of the invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A reaction training system comprising:

a plurality of pods, each pod having an indicator and a reaction sensor;

a controller in communication with said pods, said controller configured to activate the indicator on one of said pods and measure a reaction time between said activating and triggering of the reaction sensor of said one of said pods.

2. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said reaction sensor is a proximity sensor.

3. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said reaction sensor is triggered by interrupting a light beam.

4. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said reaction sensor is triggered by displacing a sports-related article moveably attached to said pod.

5. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 4, wherein said sports related article is selected from a ball and a puck.

6. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said indicator comprises a light.

7. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said controller is a programmable computer.

8. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said programmable computer is configured to accept training routines.

9. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 8, wherein said training routines comprise a predetermined sequence of pods to be activated in turn.

10. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 8, wherein said programmable computer is configured to log said reaction time along with a training session identifier and a player identifier.

11. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 10, wherein said programmable computer is configured retrieve said logged data and display said logged data in a user friendly manner.

12. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said controller is in communication with said pods via a wired connection.

13. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said controller is in communication with said pods via a wireless connection.

14. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said wireless connection comprises an industry-standard protocol.

15. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a playing surface, wherein said pods are positioned on said playing surface.

16. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 15, wherein said playing surface is selected from the group of artificial ice, wood, artificial grass, rubber, ice and grass.

17. A method for response training of a sport player, the method comprising:

providing a plurality of pods, each pod having an indicator and a reaction sensor;

providing a controller in communication with said pods;

activating the indicator on a first one of said pods; and

measuring a first reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said first one of said pods.

18. A method as claimed in claim 17, further comprising steps of:

activating the indicator on a second one of said pods; and measuring a second reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said second one of said pods.

19. A method as claimed in claim 18, further comprising steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time.

20. A method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time for each of a plurality of training sessions along with corresponding time and date information.

21. A method as claimed in claim 20, further comprising steps of:

retrieving said logged first reaction time and second reaction time;

displaying said retrieved logged data in graphical form as a function of each training session.

22. A method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising steps of: logging said first reaction time and said second reaction time for each of a plurality of players along with a corresponding identifier for said each of said players.

23. A method as claimed in claim 17, further comprising steps of:

receiving instructions to said controller for a sequence of activations of said indicators on said pods; and

storing said instructions at said controller.

24. A method as claimed in claim 17, further comprising steps of:

responsive to said triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said first one of said pods, activating the indicator on a second one of said pods; and

measuring a second reaction time between activating the indicator on said first one of said pods and a triggering by said sport player, of the reaction sensor of said second one of said pods.

25. A method as claimed in claim 24, wherein said second one of said pods is selected from said plurality of pods in a predetermined manner. A reaction training pod for use in the reaction training system of claim 1 , said reaction training pod comprising:

a frame;

an indicator mounted on said frame;

a reaction sensor mounted on said frame,

wherein said indicator and said sensor are in communication with a controller of said reaction training system.

26. A reaction training system comprising:

a plurality of stations, each station having an indicator and a reaction sensor;

a controller in communication with said stations, said controller configured to activate the indicator on one of said stations and measure a reaction time between said activating and triggering of the reaction sensor of said one of said stations.

27. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said reaction sensor is a proximity sensor.

28. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said reaction sensor is triggered by interrupting a light beam.

29. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said reaction sensor is triggered by displacing a game element moveably attached to said station.

30. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 29, wherein said game element is selected from a ball and a puck.

31. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said indicator comprises a visual indicator.

32. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 31 , wherein said visual indicator comprises a light.

33. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 31 , wherein said visual indicator comprises motion of a game element.

34. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said indicator comprises an auditory indicator.

35. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said station comprises a pod.

36. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said station comprises a designated location.

37. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 36, wherein said designated location is on a playing surface.

38. A reaction training system as claimed In claim 36, wherein said designated location is on a wall.

39. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said controller is a programmable computer.

40. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 39, wherein said programmable computer is configured to accept training routines.

41. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 40, wherein said training routines comprise a predetermined sequence of stations to be activated in turn.

42. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 40, wherein said programmable computer is configured to log said reaction time along with a training session identifier and a player identifier.

43. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 42, wherein said programmable computer is configured retrieve the logged data and display the logged data in a user friendly manner.

44. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said controller is in communication with said stations via a wired connection.

45. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein said controller is in communication with said stations via a wireless connection.

46. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 45, wherein said wireless connection comprises an industry-standard protocol.

47. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a playing surface, wherein said stations are positioned on said playing surface.

48. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 47, wherein said playing surface is selected from the group of artificial ice, wood, artificial grass, rubber, ice and grass.

49. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 15, 16, 37, 47 and 48, wherein an insulating material is layered between said stations and said playing surface.

50. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 4, wherein said sports- related article is moved on a linear plane.

51. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 29, wherein said game element is moved on a linear plane.

52. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein one of said pods is a home area pod.

53. A reaction training system as claimed in claim 26, wherein one of said stations is a home area station.