System for measuring real time for swimmers

• Grant number: 03/13149-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: December 01, 2004
• End date: April 30, 2008
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Computer Science - Computer Systems
• Principal Investigator: Humberto Ribeiro de Souza
• Grantee: Humberto Ribeiro de Souza
• Company: HR de Souza Informática - ME
• City: Santos
• Associated scholarship(s): 06/04531-7 - Real time velocity measurement system for swimmers, BP.TT; 06/01700-2 - Real time velocity measurement system for swimmers, BP.TT; 06/01608-9 - Real time velocity measurement system for swimmers, BP.TT; 05/02887-6 - Real time velocity measurement system for swimmers, BP.TT; 05/01867-1 - Real time velocity measurement system for swimmers, BP.TT

Abstract

The objective of this project is to develop a system capable of evaluating the performance of top swimming athletes. By means of wireless sensors optically linked to the side wall of the first lane of an Olympic swimming pool, a microcontroller measures the instant velocity of the swimmer on the basis of the distribution of sensors in the pool, and the speed which the athlete is achieving. The data calculated by the microcontroller is passed through a microcomputer which has a program which stores the data referring to the athlete and calculates the derivative of the acquired velocity, thus obtaining the exact position of the swimmer in the pool.With this information to hand, a qualified trainer can interpret the curves generated, checking the points of greatest attrition in the length, the swimmer’s fluctuation and errors in specific activities such as turns. The system was evaluated on equipment developed with scientific test wire and software, displaying good results.With its technical viability and marketability proven by the company, phase 2 of the project aims to transform it into a commercial system. To do this, the interface needs to be practical, wireless and provide precise results. In addition to the internal market (swimming centers which train athletes for competitions at home and abroad), the company also intends to launch the product on the international market. (AU)