Iteration 1
Experimentation Stage
We started by brainstorming and prototyping a variety of architectures before narrowing down the most practical designs
Haptic Wearable
Transmitter
Custom Whistle
Feb 2021
In our initial trigger device solution. The entire transmitter device was custom-made, including the buzzer
Pros:
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Independent system that does not rely on pre-bought products
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Complete control over design & shape
Cons:
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Might not be accepted by referees because it is not a commercial electronic whistle
Proof-of-Concept
January 2021
Composed of an Arduino, breadboard, bluetooth module, and jumper wires, this quick-to-assemble prototype made it convenient to rapidly test and gather information. As one teammate wore the device and simulated basketball movements, another recorded observations and measured their reaction time. The proof-of-concept allowed us to test optimal locations to wear the device, compare different types of vibration motors, and gather quantitative data on improved reaction times. Each option had their pros and cons, but after testing them we determined that the ankle is the most optimal location, and ERM vibration motors are more effective than their LRA counterparts.
This early prototype connects to a smartphone via bluetooth, through with the vibration motor is powered on and off.
Composed of jumper wires, breadboard, and Arduino board for a quick and simple prototype
We also compared two types of vibration motors: ERM and LRA, considering factors like vibration strength, battery consumption, and size. Between the two types, ERM was the most promising as the vibration was significantly stronger and therefore easier to feel
This early prototype connects to a smartphone via bluetooth, through with the vibration motor is powered on and off.
The ankleband has a velcro strap to adjust securely to any ankle. From testing, we discovered that the felt material was too thick to feel the vibration through, so future prototypes will used a thinner fabric.
A scaled comparison of the original jumper wire prototype to the soldered prototype. Soldering makes a huge difference!
Before sewing our own ankleband, we tried modifying a premade sweatband and fitting the electronics inside of it. However, it was too tight to slip on to an ankle, inspiring our velcro design.
The ankleband has a velcro strap to adjust securely to any ankle. From testing, we discovered that the felt material was too thick to feel the vibration through, so future prototypes will used a thinner fabric.
Prototype V2
February 2021
Version 2 centers around ergonomics. The upgrade from jumper wires to soldered boards allows the electronics to be much more compact, and therefore more optimal as a wearable device. We also implemented the information gained from the previous prototype to tailor a fabric band that straps around the ankle. Though this version may be compact, it does not protect the electronics from impact and exposure to damage during a basketball game.
