Patent Application
20210264750
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
The present disclosure relates generally to devices, systems, and methods for communicating wirelessly to another user or users through vibrotactile signaling. More specifically, the present disclosure utilizes the fingers of the hand to send and receive covert messages over a secure wireless network in a silent and undetectable manner. The present disclosure provides a solution to the problem of intercepted or decoded hand signals or other non-verbal cues that are used to gain a competitive advantage in sports and other activities. Once these hand signals or other non-verbal cues are decoded, the competitive advantage is lost.
Numerous technologies utilizing vibrotactile signaling, some utilizing the fingers of the hand, are available for communicating non-verbal cues. They fall short against the present disclosure in that they do not maintain covert communications and/or their implementation is impractical and would adversely impact the associated game or other relevant activity. The following is a tabulation of some prior art that presently appears relevant.
Major League Baseball (MLB) is in need of a solution to pitch sign stealing and will benefit from the current disclosure. A pitcher's effectiveness against an opposing batter is based on the element of surprise, which is lost once the batter has knowledge of the upcoming pitch type. A catcher must initiate a predetermined sequence of finger movements to communicate a desired pitch (e.g. one finger for a fastball or 2 fingers for a curveball), all the while attempting to keep the exchange out of the field of view of the batter and baserunners. Pitch sign sequences are sometimes modified if there is a baserunner on second base (who has a view of the catcher's signs) or if there is a sense that the opposing team has “decoded” the pitcher-catcher communications. This need to revise the sign sequences causes delays in the action and possible miscues if the new signs are not interpreted correctly.
While sign stealing has always been part of the game and is legal if no electronic devices (such as video cameras) are used by the teams to decode signs, it has reached a new level of urgency with the recent Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox cheating scandals. Both teams have been implicated in the illegal use of electronic devices (Apple Watches) or video cameras to steal signs, resulting in managerial firings, fines, and damage to the brand and integrity of MLB. A second concern of MLB is the increase in the average length of a game as a result of the constant need to change sign signals to keep the opposition off balance. Longer game times are driving fans away from baseball.
As cited in the two referenced non-patent literature documents, prototype solutions to avoid sign stealing were tested in recent years by MLB and are expected to continue. The first to be considered was wireless voice communications between the pitcher and catcher. The feedback from pitchers was that the earpieces were uncomfortable and were prone to falling out of the ear during the course of play. One other concern is the possibility of an opposing player overhearing the catcher-pitcher conversation or determining the pitch type through lipreading.
A device called the K-Band, developed by the K-Band company, was introduced to college and minor league baseball for possible testing in 2019. It is worn on the wrist of the gloved hand of the pitcher, catcher, position players, and coaches, and has a screen on the inside of the wrist for discreet selection and viewing of the pitch type. The catcher or manager enters the pitch type and location which is received by the pitcher and position players. While a possible solution to the sign stealing issue, it does nothing to improve the speed of the game as it requires the catcher to divert attention from the game to the device if the pitcher shakes off a sign, requiring a second pitch type to be called.
Pitch selection can be very dynamic, requiring last minute changes in a call due to such things as a runner on base threatening to steal. Using this as an example, the catcher might call a pitchout at the last second. Having to enter a call into the K-Band provides the competition with a visual clue that a pitchout is coming and an opportunity to wait for a better opportunity to steal the base. Conversely, a baserunner on the opposing team could take advantage of the catcher diverting attention to the device and get a good jump on stealing a base. The element of surprise is lost.
In today's game, the coaching staff will periodically relay changes in game tactics from the dugout with hand signals. Also, infielders will adjust their positioning based on knowledge of the called sign by the catcher (they can see the number of fingers shown by the catcher). The K-Band system has the capability for the coaching staff to provide input, and all players are outfitted with the device and can see the pitch call. The shortcoming for K-Band is (again) the need to divert attention from the game to read the coaches instruction or in the fielder's case to view the pitch type, possibly allowing the opposing team to get a good jump on a stolen base.
MLB tested a system during spring training 2020 that consisted of a control panel installed in the dirt adjacent to the catcher for entering the pitch call. The control panel was connected to a panel of lights installed in front of the pitcher's mound that displayed the catcher's pitch call. This is a one-way communication device (only the catcher can enter a pitch type), does not allow coaching staff input, and infielders may not be aware of the pitch call if the lights are not in their field of view. In addition, it would become a permanent installation in all ballparks, adding installation and maintenance costs. Like the K-Band, it will not improve the speed of the game.
Another device under consideration by MLB is a wearable random number generator in possession of the pitcher and catcher. It produces a value corresponding to the order in a pitch sequence (say the third sign) that is to be thrown. Imagine that the catcher flashes a series of hand signals (using the traditional method) to the pitcher, making sure that the desired pitch type is the third sign flashed. The pitcher, with knowledge of the same random number, would throw the third pitch type in the sequence. As with the K-Band and lights in the mound methodologies, the random number generator slows the pace of play. If the pitcher shakes off the sign a new number needs to generated and the process repeated. Last second changes (such as a pitchout in the example above) are not possible, infielders are not aware of the pitch call, and the coaching staff does not have input to the calls.
The present disclosure overcomes all the limitations of the prior art with covert two-way sign calling, capability to signal last second changes without giving any clues to the opposition, coaching staff input is provided, position players have knowledge of the selected pitch, no changes to field or stadium infrastructure is necessary, and the pace of play is increased.
While various means of tactile signaling exist in the prior art, none meet all the requirements of the current disclosure which include silent, covert, multi-finger communication between two or more people. Additionally, the system must integrate into clothing or equipment used by the sport or other relevant activity without causing discomfort or impeding performance.
The prior art for tactile signaling systems include pulsating radio devices such as pagers and notification systems. Furthermore, systems are employed to enhance communication via tactile stimulation, and provide alternatives to a keyboard through hand-held devices. Other tactile signaling systems include glove type data input devices, and wirelessly connected body suits that provide users with interactive tactile stimulation capabilities. A review of prior art patents that appear relevant follows below.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,093,997, issued to White, is a two-person silent communication system whereby pulses are communicated back and forth by the movement of the index finger against a pulse triggering mechanism in a sending unit. A corresponding vibratory pulse from a receiving unit is received by the other user. Each user is equipped with a sending unit consisting of a glove with a single pulse triggering mechanism and transmitting radio, and a receiving unit in the form of a patch worn on the body that includes a receiving radio and a vibratory element which imparts a tactile vibration in response to a pulse from the first user.
As White describes, “a system such as Morse code may be used by the first user to tap out a message such that the second user received and interprets a coded message by the series of long or short tactile sensations”. The White system does not meet the need for covert communications in that the action of “curling” the index finger to activate the transmitted signal can be seen by others in the vicinity of the communicator. The number of “finger taps” may be counted by an observer, and the message decoded. The White system only offers a single finger-activated pulse, which limits the communicated “language” to simple ones such as Morse Code, and is limited to only two users. The White system does not meet the requirement for an integrated solution (i.e., packaged within a single glove or article of clothing) thus resulting in discomfort to a user or an impediment to the performance of participants in a relevant sport activity. Of particular concern is the remote location of the receiver in relation to the transmitter, with wires running between the transmitter on the user's hand and the receiver patch positioned on the arm or torso. The need for two radios and supporting electrical circuitry and power supply (with separate transmitter and receiver), in addition to not integrating into the “uniform” of the user, increases the system cost and maintenance requirements.
Another two-person silent communication system is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 7,696,860 issued to Gilson. It discloses a system that communicates tactile data to and from a user and monitors the user's health. The preferred embodiment is for a soldier in a battle situation who is outfitted with a wireless touch communication device in the form of a belt that includes an array of electromechanical transducers each independently capable of producing a vibration for communicating qualitative and quantitative tactile cues.
A remote leader with a hand controller can send cues (such as halt or move out) and receive data relevant to the soldier's health. The hand controller may be replaced with a computer or other static monitoring device. Both can send cues based on a perceived threat to the soldier (such as the location of gunfire) and receive health data. As an example, when a command is sent to the soldier (e.g. move right) the electromechanical transducer positioned on the right side of the torso will buzz.
As the soldier moves or breathes, the action applies compression to the electromechanical transducers and induces an electromagnetic (EMF) force which is converted into health-related signals sent back to the controller or computer. By monitoring the output signal of the electromechanical transducers, a remote leader, whether monitoring the hand controller or computer, can determine if a soldier is under duress, incapacitated, or deceased. The user can send a message back to the controller or computer by actuating the electromechanical transducers.
While the Gilson invention discloses a silent method for 2-way tactile signaling, its physical configuration (waist band with electromechanical transducers positioned against the torso) does not meet the need for an integrated solution into clothing or equipment used by a sport or other activity. It does not provide the capability to communicate “belt to belt”, instead each user communicates with a manned controller or stationary computer. While the Gilson invention discloses that the waist belt may be worn on any part of the body, including the hand, it loses the benefit of stealth by virtue of its design. The user must interact with the electromechanical transducers positioned around the circumference of the belt to initiate or return a message. The act of the user depressing an electromechanical transducer may be visually detected by others in the area.
An example of a one-way tactile signaling system is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 7,164,348 issued to Smith which discloses an inconspicuous tactile notification for speaking engagements. Its function is to alert a presenter via a vibrotactile cue from a moderator of a message. The cue could include an alert to a time limit, or a Morse code message related to the presentation content. The vibratory unit may be attached to a microphone (sending a cue to the hand) or worn by the presenter.
Other approaches to one-way tactile signaling are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,719,561, 6,326,901, and 7,271,707 each issued to Gonzales. They disclose tactile communication devices for use in tactile communications adaptable for use by anyone able to recognize messages written in a language known to them. Sequentially fired vibromechanical stimulators, arranged in a two-dimensional array, are positioned against the skin of the user. The stimulators are triggered individually and in sequence to tactually convey a set of patterns representative of the symbols in a language that are recognizable to the wearer. The wearer cognitively perceives the tactual stimulation as a line or lines drawn on the skin or suitably tactile sensitive area that resemble the symbols used to communicate between the message sender and the wearer.
Another one-way tactile signaling system is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 6,230,135 issued to Ramsay et al. which discloses a tactile communication apparatus and method. The invention uses speech recognition software and refreshable braille devices to convey spoken communications directly to the user in a tactile form of communication. The apparatus of the invention includes several embodiments of portable tactile communication devices. These devices include a computer controller which receives communications as electrical signals and converts the electrical signals to the Phonetic Braille Code.
The controller activates one or more refreshable braille displays to communicate these translated signals tactilely to the user. In one embodiment, a portable transmitter translates the spoken word into a signal which is then sent to a portable receiver and tactile communicator. The receiver then presents a corresponding braille display so that the user can receive the communications in a tactile form. In a second embodiment, a receiver consisting of a finger- and wrist mounted unit is employed. Finger sleeves (tubular sleeves of an appropriate size for fitting over the user's fingers) contain a refreshable braille display pad in contact with the user's fingers so that the user is able to tactilely sense braille symbols.
Review of Prior Art for Tactile Signaling from Mobile Devices
A system for communicating messages from a mobile device to a user through tactile stimulation is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 9,858,773 issued to Deschamps. It discloses a wearable computer having a skin-stimulating interface. Techniques that provide electrical stimuli to the skin of a user in response to a notification signal from a mobile device are described. For instance, the electrical stimuli may inform the user of an event, a condition, etc. Examples of an event include but are not limited to receipt of a message (e.g., an email, an instant message (IM), a short message service (SMS) message, or a transcribed voicemail), receipt of an alarm (e.g., an alarm clock alarm or a warning), receipt of a phone call, occurrence of a time of day, etc. The electrical stimuli may inform the user of a condition of clothing that is worn by the user, or that a physical positioning of the user is to be changed.
A second device for communicating messages from a mobile device to a user through tactile stimulation is found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,953,494 issued to Rothschild. It discloses a device, system and method for mobile devices to communicate through skin response. Messages are received over a network by a mobile device which wirelessly transmits the message to a vibrotactile device configured to be worn on the skin of a user either as an arm patch or wristwatch. Single or multiple transducers communicate through vibration against the skin simple Morse Code type messages or with a matrix of transducers can spell out letters of a message. This system is useful to the hearing or visually impaired or for users who do not want to hear or see messages that are being communicated to them through a mobile device. Both the Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC and Rothschild are limited to one-way communication via the vibrotactile transducers. A responding message is sent through the traditional means offered by the mobile device.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,098,776 issued to Chang et al. discloses methods and apparatus for vibrotactile communication. It relates to verbal speech enhancement of voice communications over a cellphone via tactile cues. While the fingers of the hand are used to send cues, they are in plain view of an observer. The device integrates into a cellphone (such as Motorola's iDEN i730 multi-communication device) and provides fingertip pressure sensors for sending a signal and vibratory actuators for receiving a signal. With the hand in position on the phone, each finger has a corresponding pressure sensors and vibratory actuators. Tactile gestures from the finger or fingers of the transmitting user are received as vibratory pulses at the same finger or fingers of the receiving user.
Tactile stimulation is also used to enhance an activity or interaction with another user. One such system is found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,930,590 issued to Ling et al. which discloses a modular electrotactile system and method for delivering tactile stimuli to a skin surface of a user. The system is used in virtual reality, telepresence, telerrobotics, or other haptic feedback applications. It utilizes arrays of electrodes electrically connected to an integrated circuit that are positioned against the skin within an article of clothing worn by the user. The electrodes emit a low current to the skin of the user in response to a system output. These outputs simulate a physical sensation as related to the systems previously described. Inputs to the system may be received from the user through a handheld device or other devices related to the application. The system is capable of receiving and transmitting tactile data via a communication link, such as a conventional data network.
Another example of tactile stimulation being used to enhance an activity or interaction with another user is found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,046,151 issued to Dundon. It discloses an interactive body suit and interactive limb covers. Users interact over the Internet or wireless communications network with games or each other, whereby the sensation of touch is felt by the garment user. Peripheral gloves, socks, and adult entertainment devices for men and women attach to the interactive body suit in appropriate locations. Small oscillating motors embedded in the garment and peripherals produce a vibrating touch sensation when activated. Each motor has a logic address on the suit or peripheral device that correlates to a logical point on a computer graphic representing the user. Contact with the graphic will generate a command signal that activates a motor in the corresponding area on the suit. In one application, limb covers with embedded oscillating motors are used to provide medical treatment massage therapy.
Finger activated data input devices offer alternative methods for entering data into a computer or other device. One such device is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 4,905,001 issued to Penner which discloses hand-held finger movement actuated communication devices and systems employing such devices. These devices serve as alternatives to a keyboard and allow the user to receive communications via the sense of touch. Various forms of hand-held communication devices are disclosed and may be used by persons who are deaf and speechless, or blind, deaf and speechless. Eight switch elements may be operated by the four fingers of a person's hand in predetermined combinations suitable, for example, for communication in a binary code. Two distinct types of movement, pushing and sliding, are supported by each of the switch actuators and operate a pair of switch elements. In a third disclosed embodiment, collar-like rings are worn about the proximal and middle segments of the user's hand. Relative motion between the collar-like rings and a wrist harness is sensed in response to thrust and push motions of the fingers. Stimulation elements, such as vibrators, are provided and connected to corresponding switch actuators to facilitate two-way communication.
A second finger activated data input device is found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,012,593 issued to Yoon et al. which discloses a glove-type data input device and related sensing method. A change in glove shape is detected by sensors within the glove through a change in resistance or conductance. The analog output of the sensors communicates a predetermined sensing signal to an analyzer through wired or wireless means. The analyzer determines the data type sent from the data input device and translates the data into meaningful information for display on a terminal. Functions such as scrolling and clicking, traditionally performed with a mouse, and character inputs, as would be performed with a keyboard, are achieved with the glove-type data input device.
A third example of a finger activated data input device is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 6,141,643 issued to Harmon which discloses a data input glove having conductive finger pads and thumb pad. Various signal combinations are established by contacting a finger or thumb sensor with a sensor on the palm. A computer processor translates input from the data input glove into letters, numbers or symbols, and an output device, such as a visual display unit or speakers communicates the resulting data to another individual.
Tactile stimulation is also utilized in electronic assistance and notification systems. One example may be found in US. Pat. No. US20130162398A1 issued to Stoick which discloses an electronic assistance call device system and method. The system consists of a transmitter portion, worn by a first person with a potential need for assistance, and a receiver portion worn by a second person who is monitoring the state of health of the first person. Both devices may be worn on a neck lanyard or on a wrist strap. Upon activation of the transmitter, a signal is sent from the transmitter directly to the receiver portion. The receiver portion, in turn, provides the second person with an alert via the receiver, which can be by a tactile vibration, a sound and a light, or any combination of such modalities to signal that assistance is required. The transmitter and receiver portions each utilize active RFID tags to send and received an alert message, with the alert message on the receiver end activating a warning through a tactile vibration, sound, light, or combination thereof.
While various means of tactile signaling are demonstrated in the previous review of the prior art, none meet all the requirements of the current invention which include silent, covert, multi-finger communication between two or more people. Additionally, the system must integrate into clothing or equipment used by the sport or other relevant activity without causing discomfort or impeding performance.
One or more aspects of the current disclosure provide a solution to the problem of intercepted or decoded hand signals or other non-verbal cues that are used to gain a competitive advantage in sports and other activities. A multi-user tactile communication system is provided. Users are outfitted with tactile communication transceivers embedded in an article of clothing or associated accessory. Coded messages are sent securely over a wireless network in a covert fashion by utilizing the fingers of the hand. A language only known to system users, with a character or specific command associated with specific fingers of the hand, is transmitted via pulse triggering devices with the fingers of the hand. Responses from other users are sensed by the fingers of the hand through tactile simulation induced by vibration producing devices.
In one or more aspects of the current disclosure, a solution to the issue of pitch sign stealing by the opposing team in Major League Baseball (MLB) is presented. Communication occurs between 2 or more users, player comfort and game performance is not impacted, changes to field infrastructure are not required, communication is covert, the speed of play is increased, and benefits to other aspects of the game are demonstrated. The gloves of the pitcher and catcher are outfitted with tactile communication transceivers. The pitcher, out of the sight of the batter and everyone on the opposing team, uses the fingers of the gloved hand to communicate the desired pitch type. A sequence of pulse triggering device selections are made by the pitcher and wirelessly communicated to the catcher. The corresponding vibration producing devices in the catcher's glove are activated and the desired pitch is communicated to the catcher. The gloves of position players may also be outfitted with tactile communication transceivers (in receive mode only) so they can make any necessary adjustments to field positioning based on a called pitch.
Another aspect of the present disclosure integrates a controller into the multi-user tactile communication system that is operated by a master user. The master user communicates strategy and tactics to users by interacting with various controller functions. In one example of this aspect, a baseball team manager directs an outfielder to move in (closer to the infield) by interacting with the controller screen to move an icon of the player on the screen. The player, outfitted with a tactile communication transceiver within their glove, receives direction to move in through the vibration producing devices embedded in their glove.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, offensive players (batters and baserunners) and coaches are outfitted with custom hand-worn or hand accessed accessories that are integrated with tactile communication transceivers. The configuration of these customized accessories can take several forms. One example presented utilizes a cuff type device worn in the coach's pocket with compartments that accept each finger. For the players (batters and baserunners), a patch type device that might be velcroed to the upper leg is presented. Since the batters and baserunners only need to receive directions (no need to transmit), the device does not require pulse triggering devices, resulting in a more compact form factor.
The team manager communicates tactics or changes in strategy to the base coaches by interacting with related controller functions. An example of this aspect involves the manager calling a “hit and run”, where the baserunner runs to second base once the pitch is thrown and the batter attempts to hit the ball. The manager communicates the play to the coach, again by interfacing with the controller. The base coach receives the message through vibrations in the corresponding vibration producing devices and immediately relays the message to the batter and baserunner via the pulse triggering devices. The batter and baserunner will simultaneously receive the same message via the vibration producing devices in their patch type devices and execute the hit-and-run play.
While the incorporation of this aspect of the present disclosure (offensive play) is not required to solve the issue of pitch sign stealing (defensive play), it does offer advantages not previously considered. These include the participation of the coach and manager in communicating signals from the bench, which is lacking in some of the prior art. Also, the element of surprise is added to the game by allowing communication of tactics and strategy modifications within seconds without the opponent's knowledge. Pace of play is increased resulting in shorter game times, a priority of MLB.
And
The present disclosure provides a solution to the problem of intercepted or decoded hand signals or other non-verbal cues that are used to gain a competitive advantage in sports and other activities. It utilizes the fingers of the hand to send and receive covert messages through vibrotactile signaling over a secure wireless network in a silent and undetectable manner. The technique of using technology to stimulate the user's sense of touch to communicate a message is referred to as haptics. Electromagnetic technology in the form of vibratory motors with an offset mass, such as that found in most cell phones, is utilized.
In a first embodiment, a device, system and method are presented as a solution for the issue of pitch sign stealing in Major League Baseball (MLB). The traditional ‘baseball language” of pitch types as communicated through the fingers of the hand by the catcher to the pitcher is maintained, but in a silent and covert manner. Additional users such as positional players, coaches, and the manager may be added to the secure wireless local area network, thereby expanding the benefit of covert communication to other aspects of the game. This first embodiment is described hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Referring to
The tactile communication transceiver (
Each node, whether in the form of a baseball glove, as presented in this first embodiment, or in the alternative forms worn on the body and discussed below in other aspects of this first disclosure, all contain the same set of components that comprise the tactile communication transceiver (
The protocol for secure wireless local area network 102 can include but is not limited to Bluetooth™, infrared, radio transmission including computer digital signal broadcasting and reception commonly referred to as Wi-Fi or 802.11. X (where x denotes the type of transmission), satellite transmission, or any other type of communication protocol or system currently existing or to be developed for wirelessly transmitting data. To protect the integrity of the wireless data, the system will use conventional code encryption algorithms currently in use or that may be in use in the future.
The fingers (not shown in
Pressing pulse triggering devices 200 on one glove will activate corresponding vibration producing devices 201 of the same finger on the other glove or gloves communicating over the secure wireless local area network 102. As an example, catcher 101 presses pulse triggering devices 200 adjacent to index finger (#2) and middle finger (#3) in succession to indicate a fastball to pitcher 100 who will receive a “buzz” from vibration producing devices 201 on the corresponding fingers. In the same manner, activation of any sequence of pulse triggering devices 200 by pitcher 100 (whether to accept or suggest another pitch type) will be sensed by catcher 101 on corresponding vibration producing devices 201.
In this first embodiment, pulse triggering device 200 is a momentary switch, meaning that the duration of the signal (or time that vibration producing device 201 is energized) is dependent on the length of time it is pressed by the finger. Selection of the appropriate momentary switch type is a balance between durability and user comfort.
Vibration producing device 201, referred to in industry as a vibration motor, may or may not be in direct contact with the skin of the finger. It may be advantageous in terms of player comfort to isolate vibration producing device 201 within the inner layer of cowhide (or other liner) of the glove. Again, this is a balance between player comfort and sensitivity to the vibration. The vibration frequency of vibration producing device 201 may be adjusted to increase or decrease sensitivity.
Flexible printed circuit board 202 and battery 203 are embedded within the glove and located in the area between the index finger and thumb on the top side. This area is the least susceptible to damaging shock and stress. Flexible printed circuit board 202 is designed such that sensitive components are isolated from any bending or bearing stress. Other areas for locating flexible printed circuit board 202 may be considered if necessary, to limit stresses on the board. Vibration producing devices 201, by virtue of their location on the back side of the glove, are less susceptible to these forces. Wiring 204 consists of signal and power wires and is routed between flexible printed circuit board 202 and pulse triggering devices 200 and vibration producing devices 201. Wiring 204 is routed within the glove in a manner (preferably on the top areas of the inner glove) to minimize exposure to stress and shock.
Up to this point in the presentation of the first embodiment, the focus has been on two player, or pitcher 100 to catcher 101 communications. As mentioned, additional players can join the network once they have a glove outfitted with a tactile communication transceiver (
With the incorporation of controller 500 shown in
As an example, a buzz on the thumb might indicate move right, buzz on the pinky indicates move left, buzz on the middle finger indicates “move in”, and a buzz on the index finger indicates move out. Individual finger buzzes might be replaced with a specific number of buzzes on a finger (say one to four buzzes) to indicate in or out or left or right movement. Communicating a change in pitch strategy to the pitcher and catcher is performed by highlighting their icons and initiating the change. This could entail choosing from a list in a separate screen pull-down box that is part of the screen shot of player and coach management interface 502. Note that the ultimate configuration of the interactive screen commands, and signal and pitch sign designations, is user defined. The presented scenarios are for the purpose of illustration only.
Statistics showing the opposing team's offensive tendencies (e.g. how well they hit or run the bases in certain situations) is available to the manager 501 and illustrated in the screen shot of opposition data interface 503. With the immediate availability of this kind of data, little time is wasted in making changes to the player's defensive positioning.
The screen shot of system health monitoring interface 504 captures the health status of all transceiver nodes (
Prior to the start of the game, the proper state of battery 203 charge and the connectivity of all transceiver nodes on secure wireless local area network 102 is verified. This action can be achieved by a PC on the network or with controller 500 detailed in
For each pitch type, the sequence of pulse triggering device 200 selections corresponding to the finger number is shown. Using a curveball outside as an example, the catcher selects pulse triggering devices 200 in the following sequence: 2, 3, and 5. Note that if a player is missing one or more fingers, the sequences can be modified based on the available fingers. Also, additional details can be added to a pitch type (e.g. fastball outside and high in the strike zone). The extent of signs or cues is only limited by the imagination of the team.
The pitch selection scenario detailed in
The system operation is described below and follows the sequence of steps outlined in
The first embodiment presented above focuses on the defensive side of the game, offering a solution to the issue of pitch sign stealing, and expanding the system's benefits to other parts of the game with the incorporation of controller 500. By incorporating two additional styles of tactile communication transceivers (
The line of strategic or tactical communication of a team “at bat” (offensive play) is between the manager and the base coaches (first and third base), who then in turn communicate to the batter and baserunners. An example is the situation with a baserunner on first base and a batter at the plate. The manager may decide to call a “hit and run”, where the baserunner runs to the next base once the pitch is thrown and the batter swings at the ball (no matter how good a pitch it is). To initiate this call, the manager will make a traditional hand to body gestures known only to the team (e.g. touch face and tap arm twice) to a base coach who will signal the runner in the same way. While the stealing of these types of signs is not as critical to winning or losing as the stealing of pitch signs, opposing teams may get a clue from previous actions what's coming or will just be aware that “something is going to happen”. As pointed out in the review of the prior art that address the issue of pitch sign stealing, none of the prior art provided an option for the manager and coaches to send covert signals.
Two new types of tactile communication transceivers are required for this offensive improvement to the game of baseball to be realized. The first type, shown in perspective view in
A flexible printed circuit board 202 and battery 203 is installed on the inner top surface of cuff style tactile communication transceiver 700, housed between two layers of material, with the signal and power lines of wiring 204 running between flexible printed circuit board 202 and pulse triggering devices 200 and vibration producing devices 201.
The cuff style tactile communication transceiver 700 (
The patch style tactile communication transceiver 800 (
While at bat or on base awaiting a signal from a base coach, the player places their hand on patch style communication transceiver 800, with each finger covering a pulse triggering device 200 embedded within the patch. A buzz or series of buzzes from pulse triggering devices 200 will indicate an action such as hit-away for a batter or steal second for a baserunner. Note that communicated actions from the base coaches that involve multiple players (such as a hit-and-run) will be communicated to all players involved.
It is conceivable that locating patch style tactile communication transceiver 800 on the front part of the upper leg will best accommodate both batting and running. Under this scenario, a batter, prior to stepping to the plate, rests a free hand on the patch 800 and receives instructions from the coach via vibration producing devices 201. While on base and in a stance required to get a good running start, the baserunner can easily place a hand on the patch 800 while in position to run and receives instruction from the coach in the same way.
The player and coach management interface 502 of controller 500 (
Accordingly, the reader will see that some or all of the features presented above in the first embodiment and additional embodiment will reduce the issue of pitch sign stealing in Major League Baseball (MLB) and improve the speed of play. These features include covert two-way sign calling, the ability to communicate last second defensive changes without providing visible or audible clues to the opposition, position players have knowledge of the selected pitch type, coaches and the manager can communicate instructions without providing visible or audible clues to the opposition, and no changes to field or stadium infrastructure is necessary. Additionally, the system integrates into clothing or associated game equipment without causing discomfort or impeding performance. The value of the present disclosure also extends to the offensive side of the game, with the ability to covertly communicate strategy and tactics to batters and baserunners.
While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope, but rather as an exemplification of one (or several) embodiment(s) thereof. Many other variations are possible. For example:
Thus, the scope of the embodiments should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.
This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 62/978,904 filed 2020 Feb. 20 by the present inventor.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62978904 | Feb 2020 | US |
