HOCKEY PRACTICE SYSTEM

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to sports training, and more particularly to a hockey practice system.

BACKGROUND

Playing hockey, whether ice hockey or field hockey, offers a range of physical and social benefits. Hockey is a high-intensity sport that involves constant movement, which contributes to cardiovascular fitness. The fast-paced nature of the game helps to improve heart health and endurance. In addition to the cardiovascular benefits, playing hockey develops strength in the lower body for skating and the upper body for stick handling and shooting. Regular play helps develop muscle strength and overall body conditioning. Another benefit of hockey includes coordination and balance. Skating and maneuvering on the ice or field demand a high level of coordination and balance. Moreover, the sport involves a combination of aerobic and anaerobic activities, promoting overall fitness. For example, short bursts of intense activity during sprints and gameplay contribute to anaerobic conditioning. Another benefit provided by hockey play is flexibility. The constant movement and varied actions in hockey help improve flexibility, especially in the hips, knees, and ankles. Yet another benefit of playing hockey includes improved reflexes. Hockey requires quick decision-making and rapid responses to the movements of the puck or ball and other players. Thus, hockey helps enhance reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

In addition to the aforementioned physical benefits, the sport of hockey also provides multiple social benefits. Hockey is a team sport that emphasizes the importance of working together towards a common objective. Players learn to communicate, coordinate, and support each other on and off the ice or field. These factors contribute to the development of teamwork skills. Moreover, participating in hockey can also serve to develop leadership skills. Players often take on leadership roles, such as team captain or alternate captain. Players learn to respect opponents, referees, and teammates, contributing to a positive sporting culture. Furthermore, the sport of hockey can help develop communication skills. Effective communication is essential on the hockey rink. Players need to convey strategies, call for passes, and coordinate plays. Players learn to respect opponents, referees, and teammates, contributing to a positive sporting culture. Moreover, being part of a hockey team can help develop discipline and time management skills. Regular practice schedules and the commitment to team activities teach players discipline and time management skills. For young players, balancing sports with other responsibilities can develop into a valuable life skill. Thus, playing hockey offers a holistic approach to physical fitness while promoting essential social skills that can positively impact various aspects of life.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, there is provided a computer-implemented method for hockey practice, comprising: recording a plurality of video frames from an image capturing device that is configured to obtain a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user; performing an object tracking process on a hockey workpiece; rendering, on a user-facing electronic display, a video sequence that includes the plurality of video frames; providing one or more augmented reality elements overlaid on the rendering of the video sequence; computing one or more performance metrics based on a travel path of the hockey workpiece; and displaying the one or more computed performance metrics on the user-facing electronic display.

In another embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, comprising: an electronic computing device comprising: a user-facing electronic display; a memory having stored thereon a hockey performance assessment module; a network interface which enables the electronic computing device to connect to, and exchange data with, at least one second electronic computing device; and a processor communicatively coupled to the display, the memory, and the network interface, and which executes program code of the hockey performance assessment module, which enables the electronic computing device to: record a plurality of video frames from an image capturing device that is configured to obtain a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user; perform an object tracking process on a hockey workpiece; render, on the user-facing electronic display, a video sequence that includes the plurality of video frames; provide one or more augmented reality elements overlaid on the rendering of the plurality of video frames; compute one or more performance metrics based on a travel path of the hockey workpiece; and display the one or more computed performance metrics on the user-facing electronic display.

In yet another embodiment, there is provided a computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable medium having program instructions that when executed by a processor of an electronic computing device comprising a user-facing display, configure the electronic computing device to perform functions comprising: recording a plurality of video frames from an image capturing device that is configured to obtain a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user; performing an object tracking process on a hockey workpiece; rendering, on the user-facing electronic display, a video sequence that includes the plurality of video frames; providing one or more augmented reality elements overlaid on the rendering of the plurality of video frames; computing one or more performance metrics based on a travel path of the hockey workpiece; and displaying the one or more computed performance metrics on the user-facing electronic display.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The structure, operation, and advantages of the present invention will become further apparent upon consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures (FIGs). The figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting.

Certain elements in some of the figures may be omitted, or illustrated not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity. The cross-sectional views may be in the form of “slices”, or “near-sighted” cross-sectional views, omitting certain background lines which would otherwise be visible in a “true” cross-sectional view, for illustrative clarity.

Often, similar elements may be referred to by similar numbers in various figures (FIGs) of the drawing, in which case typically the last two significant digits may be the same, the most significant digit being the number of the drawing figure (FIG). Furthermore, for clarity, some reference numbers may be omitted in certain drawings.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary usage of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows another exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of overlap in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary user interface including user-facing video.

FIG. 7A shows a side view of an electronic computing device and bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7B shows a back view of the electronic computing device and bracket of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an angled bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 9 shows a side view of an angled bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 10A shows a side view of an electronic computing device and angled bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 10B shows a back view of the electronic computing device and angled bracket of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11 shows another exemplary user interface including user-facing video.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram for a system in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a performance metrics visualization in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart indicating process steps for embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Becoming an effective hockey player requires a combination of various skills. The physical skills include mastery of basic skating techniques, including forward and backward skating, quick starts, stops, and tight turns. Additionally, strength, endurance, speed, and balance, are valuable assets for both offensive and defensive players. Mental skills such as decision making, focus, and concentration also contribute to being a successful hockey player. Beyond the aforementioned skills, there are a wide variety of technical skills that need to be developed to thrive in the sport of hockey. Accurate and powerful shooting involves mastering various shot types, including wrist shots, slap shots, and snap shots. Moreover, the ability to control the puck with the stick, including dekes, fakes, and quick maneuvers, is critical for offensive players.

Disclosed embodiments provide techniques for developing and improving technical hockey skills. An electronic computing device that includes one or more image acquisition devices is mounted in front of a user (hockey player). The electronic computing device includes a user-facing display that includes one or more augmented reality elements. During use, the user manipulates a hockey workpiece, such as a hockey puck, hockey ball, or other suitable workpiece in a way to interact with the one or more augmented reality elements. A variety of exercises and drills are provided for users to develop stick handling and shooting techniques, which can translate to improved gameplay for the user.

The descriptions throughout this disclosure contain simplifications, generalizations and omissions of detail and is not intended as a comprehensive description of the claimed subject matter but, rather, is intended to provide a brief overview of some of the functionality associated therewith. Other systems, methods, functionality, features, and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the figures and the remaining detailed written description. The above as well as additional objectives, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent in the following detailed description.

Each of the above and below described features and functions of the various different aspects, which are presented as operations performed by the processor(s) of the communication/electronic devices are also described as features and functions provided by a plurality of corresponding methods and computer program products, within the various different embodiments presented herein. In the embodiments presented as computer program products, the computer program product includes a non-transitory computer readable storage device having program instructions or code stored thereon, which enables the electronic device and/or host electronic device to complete the functionality of one or more disclosed processes when the program instructions or code are processed by at least one processor of the corresponding electronic/communication device, such as is described herein.

In the following description, specific example embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosed embodiments. For example, specific details such as specific method orders, structures, elements, and connections have been presented herein. However, it is to be understood that the specific details presented need not be utilized to practice embodiments of the present disclosure. It is also to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, architectural, programmatic, mechanical, electrical and other changes may be made without departing from the general scope of the disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

References within the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “embodiments”, or “one or more embodiments” are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one implementation (embodiment) of the present disclosure. The appearance of such phrases in various places within the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various aspects are described which may be aspects for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element (e.g., a person or a device) from another.

It is understood that the use of specific component, device and/or parameter names and/or corresponding acronyms thereof, such as those of the executing utility, logic, and/or firmware described herein, are for example only and not meant to imply any limitations on the described embodiments. The embodiments may thus be described with different nomenclature and/or terminology utilized to describe the components, devices, parameters, methods and/or functions herein, without limitation. References to any specific protocol or proprietary name in describing one or more elements, features or concepts of the embodiments are provided solely as examples of one implementation, and such references do not limit the extension of the claimed embodiments to embodiments in which different element, feature, protocol, or concept names are utilized. Thus, each term utilized herein is to be provided its broadest interpretation given the context in which that term is utilized.

Within the descriptions of the different views of the figures, the use of the same reference numerals and/or symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items, and similar elements can be provided similar names and reference numerals throughout the figure(s). The specific identifiers/names and reference numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional or otherwise) on the described embodiments.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary usage of an embodiment of the present invention. Diagram 100 includes an electronic computing device 130 that is secured to a stand 120. During use, a user 102 positions himself/herself in front of the electronic computing device 130 as shown in FIG. 1. The user 102 holds a hockey stick 104, and uses it to move a hockey workpiece 106. In one or more embodiments, the hockey workpiece can include a hockey puck, hockey ball, or other suitable hockey workpiece.

The stand 120 can include a base 142 that rests on a floor/ground surface 167. An elongated portion 143 extends from the base 142 to an adjustable portion 146. The adjustable portion 146 can include one or more spring-loaded moveably linked supports to enable positioning of the electronic computing device 130 at a height, indicated by reference 169 above the floor/ground surface 167. In one or more embodiments, the height indicated by reference 169 can range from one meter to two meters. The preferred setting depends on the height of the user 102. In one or more embodiments, the electronic computing device 130 can include a tablet computer such as an android tablet computer, iPad®, or the like. One or more embodiments can include a stand. A bracket 148 can be attached to the stand 120, where the stand 120 and bracket 148 are configured and disposed to hold the electronic computing device at a height ranging from 1 meter to two meters above a floor surface.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 200 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. The electronic computing device 200 includes electronic display 201. In one or more embodiments, electronic display 201 comprises a touchscreen, enabling user interface functionality. In one or more embodiments, the touchscreen includes a capacitive touchscreen, resistive touchscreen, infrared (IR) touchscreen, or other suitable touchscreen type. In one or more embodiments, the electronic display comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, AMOLED (Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode), or other suitable display type.

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information, such as images, videos, or 3D models, onto the real-world environment in real-time. Disclosed embodiments provide real-time interaction by superimposing digital information onto the user's view of the real world, which includes a hockey practice area, hockey stick, and/or hockey workpiece. Disclosed embodiments track the hockey workpiece to enable the hockey workpiece to interact with one or more augmented reality elements, such as targets, virtual lines, virtual goal nets, and so on. In embodiments, a target defines an area in which the hockey workpiece (e.g., puck or ball) is intended to pass through as part of a hockey exercise or drill. Disclosed embodiments utilize object tracking for tracking a hockey workpiece with computer vision techniques and/or machine learning. This can include a series of steps to detect and follow the position of a hockey workpiece (e.g., puck or ball) across consecutive frames in a video or image sequence. The steps can include detecting the hockey workpiece in the initial frame of the video. The detection can be done using object detection algorithms, which identify regions of interest (ROI) in the image that likely contain the hockey workpiece. One or more embodiments may utilize an object detection algorithm including, but not limited to, YOLO (You Only Look Once), SSD (Single Shot Multibox Detector), and Faster R-CNN (Region-based Convolutional Neural Network). The steps may further include a feature extraction process. Once the hockey workpiece is detected, features such as color, texture, or shape are extracted from the detected region. These features help uniquely identify the hockey workpiece in subsequent frames. One or more embodiments may further utilize a tracking algorithm. The tracking algorithm may be initialized by using the detected features to create a “track” for the hockey workpiece. The initialization may involve creating a bounding box around the hockey workpiece and/or extracting key points. In one or more embodiments, a motion prediction process is used to enable more accurate tracking. The motion prediction process can include estimating the direction and speed of the ball based on its previous positions. In one or more embodiments, Kalman filters and/or Particle Filters are used in the motion prediction process. In one or more embodiments, a computer vision framework, such as OpenCV is used for providing tools and functions for implementation of hockey workpiece tracking using various algorithms.

The electronic computing device 200 can include an image capturing device (camera) that is configured to acquire still images and/or video. In embodiments, the image capturing device can be configured to obtain images from a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user. As shown in FIG. 2, this includes the hockey stick 242, and hockey workpiece 244 of the user. For example, referring again to FIG. 1, the hockey stick 104 of FIG. 1, and hockey workpiece 106 of FIG. 1 can be represented by hockey stick 242 and hockey workpiece 244 of FIG. 2. One or more augmented reality targets may be synthesized and rendered on the display 201. As shown in FIG. 2, four augmented reality targets are shown, indicated as 204, 206, 208, and 210. In one exemplary use of disclosed embodiments, a user manipulates the hockey workpiece with his/her hockey stick to move the hockey workpiece such that the hockey workpiece overlaps with one or more targets during the course of travel of the hockey workpiece. In embodiments, a performance metric, such as a score, is computed and rendered on the display 201, such as score 234, indicating a current score of 6. In one or more embodiments, an objective of a hockey drill is to “clear” all the targets as quickly as possible, by manipulating the hockey workpiece (e.g., puck, ball, etc.) such that the rendering of the hockey workpiece on display 201 overlaps with the rendering of an augmented reality target. In one or more embodiments, when the hockey workpiece overlaps with the augmented reality target, the augmented reality target is removed from the screen, and the score is incremented accordingly. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, an elapsed time for clearing the targets is rendered as shown at reference 232. In one or more embodiments, a bonus is added to the score when all targets are cleared within a predetermined time interval. As an example, a bonus of 10 points may be added to the final score when all augmented reality targets are cleared within 30 seconds. As a user continues to practice using disclosed embodiments, his/her stick-handling techniques can improve. The electronic computing device can further include a user-facing camera (front-facing camera) 202. In one or more embodiments, the user-facing camera 202 can acquire images and/or video of the user as he/she performs hockey practice drills, such as the aforementioned target clearing drill.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more augmented reality elements includes at least one target. In one or more embodiments, performing an object tracking process on a hockey workpiece comprises performing an object tracking process on a hockey puck. In one or more embodiments, performing an object tracking process on a hockey workpiece comprises performing an object tracking process on a ball.

FIG. 3 shows another exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 300 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 300 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. Continuing from the example shown in FIG. 2, a hockey workpiece 344 is set in motion along path 343 by hockey stick 342, which is manipulated by a user (e.g., 102 of FIG. 1). As can be seen in FIG. 3, the path 343 indicates that the hockey workpiece 344 (e.g., a hockey puck) moves such that it overlaps with augmented reality target 308 during the travel of the hockey workpiece. In response to the hockey workpiece 344 overlapping the augmented reality target 308, the processor within the electronic computing device 300 removes the augmented reality target from the electronic display 301, and increments the score 334 accordingly. The elapsed time 332 also continues to increment as the user performs the target clearing drill. Additional augmented reality targets 310, 304, and 306 remain to be cleared. In one or more embodiments, as augmented reality targets are cleared, new augmented reality targets can be rendered to allow the target clearing hockey practice drill to continue. In one or more embodiments, the new augmented reality targets can be rendered in a random, or semi-random location. In one or more embodiments, the rendering of a new augmented reality target in a semi-random location can include rendering a new augmented reality target in an opposite half of the display from the augmented reality target that was just cleared.

One or more embodiments can include: determining that at least one image of the hockey workpiece is overlapping with a region defined by the at least one target; modifying a performance metric based on the overlapping; and presenting the performance metric on the user-facing electronic display. One or more embodiments can include providing multiple targets, and further include: determining that at least one image of the hockey workpiece is overlapping with a corresponding region defined by each of the multiple targets; modifying a performance metric based on the overlapping;

- recording an elapsed time for each region to undergo an overlapping condition; and
- presenting the performance metric and the elapsed time on the user-facing electronic display.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example 400 of overlap in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the example 400, an augmented reality target 405 is shown. A boundary region 402 is computed for the augmented reality target 405. In one or more embodiments, the boundary region is computed as the smallest circle that circumscribes the augmented reality target. This technique accommodates non-standard shapes of augmented reality targets, such as a “star” shape, a team logo, and/or other non-standard shapes. A hockey workpiece boundary region 404 is computed for a hockey workpiece 408. When a hockey workpiece is positioned such that overlap exists between the hockey workpiece boundary region 404 and the augmented reality target boundary region 402, an overlap region 412 is formed, that includes an area that is part of both the hockey workpiece boundary region 404 and the augmented reality target boundary region 402. When the overlap region 412 exists, disclosed embodiments register a target-clearing event, and perform a target clearing process. The target clearing process can include adjusting a performance metric such as a score, clearing (removing) the augmented reality target 405, and/or rendering a new augmented reality target in a new location on the display of the electronic computing device. In one or more embodiments, the score is adjusted as a function of the area of the overlap region 412. As an example, when the maximum size of overlap region 412 is less than half the area defined by hockey workpiece boundary region 404, one point may be awarded. Similarly, if the maximum size of overlap region 412 is greater than or equal to half of the area defined by hockey workpiece boundary region 404, two points may be awarded. In this way, disclosed embodiments can promote accurate placement of a hockey workpiece, and update the score based on the accuracy of the placement.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary user interface showing augmented reality elements in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 500 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 500 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 illustrates a speed-measuring application of disclosed embodiments. A user (e.g., 102 of FIG. 1) manipulates his/her hockey stick 542 to shoot the hockey workpiece (e.g., puck or ball) along a path 543 such that it crosses two augmented reality lines, indicated as augmented reality line 551 and augmented reality line 553. These lines are generated by a processor within electronic computing device 500. Disclosed embodiments determine the elapsed time for the hockey workpiece to traverse augmented reality line 551 and augmented reality line 553. As shown in FIG. 5, the hockey workpiece contacts augmented reality line 551 at position 541, and a time of contact with augmented reality line 551 is recorded. Similarly, the hockey workpiece contacts augmented reality line 553 at position 544, and a time of contact with augmented reality line 553 is recorded. A difference between the two times is computed. Based on the time difference, and an estimated distance between the two augmented reality lines 551 and 553, an estimated hockey workpiece speed is computed and rendered as shown at 557. Shot speed is an important aspect of hockey, and shot speed can significantly impact a player's effectiveness. A faster shot is harder for goaltenders to react to, increasing the likelihood of scoring. Players with powerful and quick shots can capitalize on scoring opportunities even in tight spaces. Moreover, a high-speed shot increases the chances of generating rebounds off the goaltender's pads or creating opportunities for teammates to deflect the puck into the net. Disclosed embodiments provide a feature that allows users to develop their shot speed. In one or more embodiments, a history of the most recent shot speeds is displayed, as shown at 557 where the three most recent shot speeds are displayed.

One or more embodiments can include determining a hockey workpiece speed between two augmented reality elements from the one or more augmented reality elements; and presenting a hockey workpiece speed on the user-facing electronic display. One or more embodiments can include: recording hockey workpiece speed values corresponding to multiple shots; and presenting a hockey workpiece speed history on the user-facing electronic display. In one or more embodiments, a calibration procedure is performed prior to utilizing the speed-measuring function. The calibration procedure can include placing a meter stick on the floor surface, and then adjusting the position of the augmented reality line 551 and augmented reality line 553, such that the distance D between the two lines is one meter. In this way, a speed in miles per hour, kilometers per hour, or other suitable unit can be computed based on the time required for the hockey workpiece to traverse both augmented reality line 551 and augmented reality line 553.

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary user interface including user-facing video. Electronic computing device 600 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 300 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 also shows a portion of a bracket 620 that may be used in one or more embodiments to clamp or squeeze the electronic computing device 600 to secure it to a stand (e.g., 120 of FIG. 1), as shown in FIG. 1.

The electronic computing device can further include a user-facing camera (front-facing camera) 602. In one or more embodiments, the user-facing camera 602 can acquire images and/or video of the user as he/she performs hockey practice drills, such as the aforementioned target clearing drill, and render the user-facing view 661 in a region of the electronic display 601. In this embodiment, the user (e.g., 102 of FIG. 1) can view himself/herself in a straight-on view as shown in view 661, where an image of the user 662, hockey stick 663, and hockey workpiece 664 are shown. Additionally, the hockey stick is also visible in a top-down view as shown at 642, along with hockey workpiece 644. Moreover, multiple augmented reality targets, indicated as 608 and 610 are shown. A performance metric such as a score, indicated as 634 may also be shown, along with an elapsed time indicated as 632. Accordingly, disclosed embodiments enable a user to view his/her stick and hockey workpiece from multiple angles simultaneously. Viewing multiple video angles to analyze sports techniques provides several benefits for athletes and coaches. Multiple angles provide a more comprehensive view of an athlete's performance. Different perspectives help capture nuances and details that may be missed when analyzing from a single viewpoint. Furthermore, multi-angle video analysis enables a thorough examination of biomechanics. Coaches and athletes can assess body positioning, joint angles, and movement patterns from various perspectives, helping to identify areas for improvement. Moreover, viewing from different angles makes it easier to identify errors or inconsistencies in technique. Whether it's foot placement, hand positioning, or body alignment, coaches can pinpoint issues and work with athletes on corrective measures. Thus, disclosed embodiments provide powerful tools for enabling hockey players to improve their skills.

FIG. 7A shows a side view of an assembly 700 including an electronic computing device and bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 701 is secured by bracket 720, which clamps a top and bottom edge of the electronic computing device 701. Electronic computing device 701 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 701 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. A mounting rod 722 is affixed to bracket 720 at one end of the mounting rod 722, and can be affixed to a stand at the other end, to enable mounting of the electronic computing device 701 on a stand, similar to as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7B shows a back view of the assembly 700 including electronic computing device 701 and bracket of FIG. 7A, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 7A. In FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, a rear-facing camera 715 is visible. In one or more embodiments, the rear-facing camera 715 is used for acquiring downward images of an area in front of a user. In one or more embodiments, the electronic computing device comprises a tablet computer, where the tablet computer includes a front-facing camera and a rear-facing camera.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an angled bracket 800 in accordance with disclosed embodiments. The angled bracket can include a straight portion 810. Attached at one end of the straight portion 810 is a hooked portion 814. The hooked portion 814 is configured and disposed to hook over the edge of an electronic computing device such as a tablet computer. Attached at a second end of the straight portion 810 is an angled portion 818. In one or more embodiments, the angled portion 818 includes a reflective (mirrored) surface 823. In one or more embodiments, the angled portion 818 is positioned with respect to the rear-facing camera (715 of FIG. 7B), such that the rear facing-camera (715 of FIG. 7B) obtains images/video of a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user. For a user practicing hockey, this can include the area within a few feet in front of the user where his/her hockey stick can reach while being held by the user.

FIG. 9 shows a side view of an angled bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 901 has an angled bracket 905 installed thereon. Electronic computing device 901 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 901 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. In one or more embodiments, angled bracket 905 can be similar to angled bracket 800 of FIG. 8. Electronic computing device 901 includes rear-facing camera 915, which acquires downward-facing images of floor (or ground) surface 927. In one or more embodiments, the stand further comprises an angled bracket disposed within a field of view (FOV) of the rear-facing camera, and where the angled bracket comprises a mirrored surface, such that the rear-facing camera acquires the downward viewpoint.

As indicated by line R, the mirrored surface of angled bracket 905 (as shown at 823 in FIG. 8) enables the rear-facing camera of the electronic computing device to acquire downward-facing images. Thus, disclosed embodiments enable an off-the-shelf tablet computer to be used as the electronic computing device to implement one or more features described herein. Using off-the-shelf (OTS) computers for product design can offer several benefits. Off-the-shelf computers are generally more cost-effective than custom-built solutions. This is because they are produced in larger quantities, benefiting from economies of scale. Furthermore, OTS computers are readily available from various manufacturers and suppliers. This means faster procurement and deployment times compared to custom-built solutions, which may take longer to design, manufacture, and assemble. Moreover, designing and building custom computers can be time-consuming. Off-the-shelf solutions save time as they are pre-assembled and configured, ready for use upon purchase. The angled bracket 905 enables effective use of an off-the-shelf tablet computer in disclosed embodiments. Moreover, application development kits (ADKs) for popular tablet computers such as iOS devices and android devices enable one or more applications (apps) to be developed for performing the augmented reality functions, performance metric computation functions, video acquisition functions, and/or other functions of disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 10A shows a side view of an assembly 1000 including an electronic computing device and angled bracket in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Electronic computing device 1001 is secured by bracket 1020, which clamps a top and bottom edge of the electronic computing device 1001. Electronic computing device 1001 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 1001 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. A mounting rod 1022 is affixed to bracket 1020 at one end of the mounting rod 1022, and can be affixed to a stand at the other end, to enable mounting of the electronic computing device 1001 on a stand, similar to as shown in FIG. 1. Angled bracket 1005 is also shown in FIG. 10A. In one or more embodiments, angled bracket 1005 can be similar to angled bracket 800 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10B shows a back view of the assembly 1000 including electronic computing device 1001 and bracket of FIG. 10A, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 10A. As shown in FIG. 10B, the angled bracket 1005 is positioned such that the angled portion 1034 (similar to 818 of FIG. 8) is disposed in a line of sight for the rear-facing camera 1015, enabling the rear-facing camera 1015 to acquire images of a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user. Additionally, a user-facing (front-facing) camera 1017 may be used to simultaneously acquire and present user-facing video in an inset window, along with the downward viewpoint, such as shown in FIG. 6. In one or more embodiments, the electronic computing device comprises a tablet computer, where the tablet computer includes a front-facing camera and a rear-facing camera. In FIG. 10A, a rear-facing camera 1015 is visible. In one or more embodiments, the rear-facing camera 1015 is used for acquiring downward images of an area in front of a user.

FIG. 11 shows another exemplary user interface including user-facing video. Electronic computing device 1100 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 1100 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2. The electronic computing device can further include a user-facing camera (front-facing camera) 1102. In one or more embodiments, the user-facing camera 1102 can acquire images and/or video of the user as he/she performs hockey practice drills, such as the aforementioned target clearing drill, and render the user-facing view 1161 in a region of the electronic display 1101. In embodiments, a performance metric, such as a score or hockey workpiece speed, is computed and rendered on the display 1101, such as score 1134, indicating a current score of 6. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, an elapsed time for performing an exercise or practice drill is rendered as shown at reference 1132.

FIG. 11 also shows a portion of a bracket 1120 that may be used in one or more embodiments to clamp or squeeze the electronic computing device 1100 to secure it to a stand (e.g., 120 of FIG. 1), as shown in FIG. 1. Additionally, in FIG. 11, a portion of angled bracket 1105 is also visible. In one or more embodiments, angled bracket 1105 can be similar to angled bracket 800 of FIG. 8. Additionally, in FIG. 11, adjustable clamp 1172 and adjustable clamp 1174 may be used to secure electronic computing device 1100 to a stand (such as depicted in FIG. 1). In one or more embodiments, the adjustable clamps 1172 and 1174 included threaded bolts and wing nuts to enable adjustability to accommodate a variety of different sized of electronic computing devices that have a tablet computer form factor.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram for a system 1200 in accordance with disclosed embodiments. System 1200 includes electronic computing device 1201. Electronic computing device 1201 can comprise a tablet computer in one or more embodiments. Electronic computing device 1201 can be similar to electronic computing device 200 of FIG. 2.

In embodiments, the electronic computing device 1201 is implemented as a computer comprising a processor 1204, and memory 1206 coupled to the processor 1204. The memory 1206 may be a non-transitory computer readable storage medium. Memory 1206 may include RAM, ROM, flash, EEPROM, or other suitable storage technology. The memory 1206 contains instructions, that when executed by processor 1204, enable implementation of one or more features of disclosed embodiments. In one or more embodiments, the memory 1206 contains hockey performance assessment module 1207. The hockey performance assessment module 1207 can include functions and/or instructions for rendering augmented reality targets, computing performance metrics, displaying performance metrics, and/or other features of disclosed embodiments.

The electronic computing device 1201 may further include a user-facing image acquisition system 1208. The user-facing image acquisition system 1208 may include one or more cameras, image sensors, lenses, image signal processors (ISPs), and/or other components for acquiring user-facing images, such as those depicted at 661 in FIG. 6. The electronic computing device 1201 may further include a downward-facing image acquisition system 1210. The downward-facing image acquisition system 1210 may include one or more cameras, image sensors, lenses, image signal processors (ISPs), and/or other components for acquiring images obtained from a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user, such as depicted in 201 of FIG. 2. The electronic computing device 1201 may perform image manipulation such as flipping, rotation, and/or scaling to present images to the user in the desired orientation. The electronic computing device 1201 may further include an electronic display 1220. In one or more embodiments, electronic display 1220 comprises a touchscreen, enabling user interface functionality. In one or more embodiments, electronic display 1220 can be similar to electronic display 201 of FIG. 2.

Electronic computing device 1201 can further include user interface 1222. In one or more embodiments, user interface 1222 may be implemented via touchscreen functionality of electronic display 1220. The user interface 1222 can enable features such as calibration, entering of user preferences and other customizations, selection of games and/or practice drills, and/or other features and/or functions. Electronic device 1201 can further include network interface 1228 to enable the electronic computing device to connect to, and exchange data with, at least one second electronic computing device, such as a server. Network interface 1228 can include one or more interfaces to enable wired and/or wireless communication. In one or more embodiments, network interface 1228 can support wired communication such as via Ethernet. In one or more embodiments, network interface 1228 can support wireless communication such as via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, infrared, and/or other suitable wireless technology. The network interface 1228 can enable communication to additional electronic computing devices via network 1235. Network 1235 can include one or more of a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and/or other types of networks. In embodiments, network 1235 may include the Internet.

One or more embodiments may include a business system 1260. The business system 1260 may include one or more computers to support various business functions and services to manage financial transactions, user accounts, and subscription services for disclosed embodiments. These functions can include user registration functions that allow users to create accounts, providing necessary information. The functions can further include profile management functions that enable users to establish and/or update personal details, payment information, and preferences. The functions can further include payment processing functions that integrate with payment gateways to securely process financial transactions. Disclosed embodiments can support various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and other electronic payment options. The functions can include user notification functions. This can include sending automated emails for billing-related events, such as payment receipts, upcoming renewals, and account updates, as well as periodic reports and user summaries highlighting user practice schedules and progress in performing various hockey practice drills and/or other practice activities.

One or more embodiments may include a video server system 1240. The video server system 1240 may include one or more computers to support various video functions. The video server system 1240 can provide functions for ingesting video content from various sources, such as cameras from one or more electronic computing devices such as 200 of FIG. 2. In one or more embodiments, the video server system 1240 records and stores the incoming video data. The video server system 1240 can perform storage and archiving functions. One or more embodiments can perform metadata tagging on one or more videos. The metadata can include date, time, location, and keywords. This helps in categorizing and searching for specific content. The keywords can include a user identifier, a name of a hockey drill, a performance metric, and so on. In one or more embodiments, users may have the option to record and save videos of their practice drills for viewing at a later time. The videos may include multi-angle videos such as depicted in FIG. 6 and FIG. 11. This feature can be a valuable tool for athletes and/or coaching staff to review performance and identify suggestions for improvements.

One or more embodiments may include a player analytics system 1250. The player analytics system 1250 may include one or more computers to support various sports biomechanics analysis functions. The player analytics system 1250 can provide functions such as computation of body kinematics parameters. This can include calculating joint angles and/or limb positions. This information helps in assessing the athlete's technique and form during various movements. The player analytics system 1250 can provide functions such as stick-handling analysis. The stick-handling analysis can include image analysis to assess the hockey players swing path, angle of attack, and body positioning when taking a shot. This aids in optimizing technique and power generation. The player analytics system 1250 may further include functions for side-by-side comparisons. This enables coaches and athletes to compare different performances or techniques side by side. This visual comparison aids in identifying changes and improvements over time. By leveraging computerized image analysis in sports biomechanics, coaches and athletes gain valuable insights into stick-handling movement patterns and mechanics. This information enables targeted interventions and training strategies to enhance performance, reduce the risk of injuries, and optimize overall athletic efficiency, thereby enabling improved hockey playing skills, taking the sport to the next level.

FIG. 13 is a performance metrics visualization in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Graph 1300 includes a horizontal axis 1302, and a vertical axis 1304. In one or more embodiments, the horizontal axis 1302 represents time. The time can be units of hours, days, weeks, months, or other suitable time unit. In one or more embodiments, the vertical axis represents a performance metric. The performance metric can include a score, a completion time, a hockey workpiece speed, and/or other suitable metric. In one or more embodiments, the performance metric can be a combined metric that is a function of multiple individual metrics, such as being a function of completion time and score, for example. A trend curve 1310 indicates change in the performance metric over time. In one or more embodiments, the performance metrics visualization may be computed by the processor of the electronic computing device used for the image acquisition (e.g., device 130 of FIG. 1). This feature can enable a user to observe his/her progress over time.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart 1400 indicating process steps for embodiments of the present invention. At block 1450, video frames are recorded with a downward viewpoint. This can include using an angled bracket as previously described and shown in FIG. 8. At block 1452, an object tracking process is performed on a hockey workpiece. In one or more embodiments, the hockey workpiece includes a puck or a ball. In embodiments, the puck is one inch thick and three inches in diameter. At block 1456, one or more augmented reality elements are provided. In one or more embodiments, the augmented reality elements can include targets. The targets can include shapes, symbols, and/or icons that may be part of a game or practice drill. The augmented reality elements can include one or more lines, a virtual goal net, and/or other elements suitable for development of games and/or practice drills that promote hockey skills. At block 1458 a performance metric is computed based on a travel path of the hockey workpiece. The performance metric can include determining overlap, at block 1462. Alternatively, or additionally, the performance metric can include determining a workpiece speed, and block 1464. The flowchart 1400 continues with displaying the performance metric at block 1470. The performance metric can be displayed in alphanumeric format, such as shown at 634 of FIG. 6. The performance metric can be displayed in a graphical format, such as shown in FIG. 13. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the process steps shown in FIG. 14 may be omitted, performed in a different order, or performed concurrently.

One or more embodiments can include a computer-implemented method for hockey practice, comprising: recording a plurality of video frames from an image capturing device that is configured to obtain a downward viewpoint of an area in front of a user, where the downward viewpoint enables capturing images of a hockey workpiece; performing an object tracking process on the hockey workpiece; rendering, on a user-facing electronic display, a video sequence that includes the plurality of video frames; providing one or more augmented reality elements overlaid on the rendering of the plurality of video frames; and computing one or more performance metrics based on a travel path of the hockey workpiece; and displaying the one or more computed performance metrics on the user-facing electronic display.

As can now be appreciated, disclosed embodiments provide an augmented-reality based hockey practice system. Practicing stick-handling drills is crucial for improving as a hockey player, as it enhances a player's ability to control the puck, make precise movements, and navigate by opponents effectively. Stick-handling drills enhance a player's feel for the puck, improving their ability to control it with finesse. Furthermore, stick-handling drills improve hand-eye coordination, allowing players to track the puck while executing precise movements. Stick-handling drills promote the development of multi-directional skills, allowing players to move the puck effectively in any direction. Moreover, players can learn to vary their stick-handling speed, adding unpredictability to their play. Advanced stick-handling drills teach players deceptive moves, making it harder for defenders to anticipate their next move.

Disclosed embodiments provide techniques for practicing a variety of skills and drills for improved hockey play. One or more embodiments can utilize an off-the-shelf tablet computer. In one or more embodiments, specialized software, such as an application (“app”) executing on the off-the-shelf tablet computer provides a user interface, performs image acquisition, and implements training exercises and/or games that can allow a user to practice important hockey skills. Disclosed embodiments may be utilized on ice, a gym floor, a carpet, or any other suitable surface. Disclosed embodiments provide additional hockey practice opportunities in a fun and interactive environment. Disclosed embodiments can employ a subscription-based model, or a pay-at-once model. Some embodiments may include additional services that are performed via servers, such as depicted at 1240, 1250, and 1260 of FIG. 12. Disclosed embodiments can provide additional analysis of player performance and progress tracking. Other embodiments may include fun games in an arcade format, enabling the introduction of the exciting game of hockey to a wide audience.

In the above-described methods, one or more of the method processes may be embodied in a computer readable device containing computer readable code such that operations are performed when the computer readable code is executed on a computing device. In some implementations, certain operations of the methods may be combined, performed simultaneously, in a different order, or omitted, without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. Further, additional operations may be performed, including operations described in other methods. Thus, while the method operations are described and illustrated in a particular sequence, use of a specific sequence or operations is not meant to imply any limitations on the disclosure. Changes may be made with regards to the sequence of operations without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Use of a particular sequence is therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.

Aspects of the present disclosure are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object-oriented programming language, without limitation. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine that performs the method for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. The methods are implemented when the instructions are executed via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus.

As will be further appreciated, the processes in embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using any combination of software, firmware, or hardware. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment or an embodiment combining software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable storage device(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon. Any combination of one or more computer readable storage device(s) may be utilized. The computer readable storage device may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage device can include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage device may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Where utilized herein, the terms “tangible” and “non-transitory” are intended to describe a computer-readable storage medium (or “memory”) excluding propagating electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to otherwise limit the type of physical computer-readable storage device that is encompassed by the phrase “computer-readable medium” or memory. For instance, the terms “non-transitory computer readable medium” or “tangible memory” are intended to encompass types of storage devices that do not necessarily store information permanently, including, for example, RAM. Program instructions and data stored on a tangible computer-accessible storage medium in non-transitory form may afterwards be transmitted by transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, which may be conveyed via a communication medium such as a network and/or a wireless link.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

As used herein, the term “or” is inclusive unless otherwise explicitly noted. Thus, the phrase “at least one of A, B, or C” is satisfied by any element from the set {A, B, C} or any combination thereof, including multiples of any element.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or component thereof to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

HOCKEY PRACTICE SYSTEM

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