Generally, the invention relates to wall tennis. More
specifically, the invention relates to a smart wall tennis system.
Background
[002] A wall tennis setup (also referred to as a tennis backboard) is
a training infrastructure that is used by players for learning and practicing
tennis. For every tennis player (especially novice players), the wall tennis
setup is one of the best way of improving their tennis skills. In wall tennis
setup, a player learns to play tennis in absence of an opponent player. To
this end, the player hits a ball against a wall, and after the ball rebounds
from the wall, the player hits back, thereby the player learns to play
different types of strokes.
[003] However, the existing wall tennis setup has certain
drawbacks, for example, the ball may return back much quicker as
compared to a ball that is shot by an actual opponent on the other side of
the net. Additionally, greater is the force that the player imparts on the ball,
faster is the rebound of the ball, thereby leaving the player with less time
to recompose and be prepared to hit the ball on rebound. Due to these
drawbacks the existing wall tennis setup is not extensively used for
training, as it does not mimic the realistic scenario accurately.
[004] Many variations of the existing wall tennis setup are used to
mitigate its drawbacks. In one of the variations, an inclined wall (for
example, at 8 Degrees) may be used. However, such variations also do
not mitigate the pace at which the ball rebounds, although it can make the
rebound ball lob, when a player hits a flat stroke.
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[005] There is therefore a need for replacing current wall tennis
setup with a more efficient and reliable training system for tennis players.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[006] In one embodiment, a smart wall tennis system is disclosed.
The smart wall tennis system includes a wall assembly comprising a wall
and a first surface. The wall is cooperatively coupled to the first surface
and the first surface is perpendicular to a second surface. It should be
noted that, each of the first surface and the second surface are stationary.
The smart wall tennis system further includes a ramp assembly comprising
a ramp extending on the second surface up to a predefined distance from
the wall. It should be noted that, the predefined distance is greater than a
baseline distance of a tennis court and the ramp is selectively movable
relative to the first surface and selectively inclinable relative to the second
surface. The ramp assembly further comprises at least one sliding rail
configured to selectively move the ramp in at least one predefined
direction relative to the first surface along an axis parallel to the second
surface. The ramp assembly further comprises a first set of actuators
configured to selectively incline the ramp at one of predefined angles
relative to the second surface. The smart wall tennis system further
includes a controller communicatively coupled to the at least one sliding
rail and the first set of actuators. The controller is configured to send a first
signal to the at least one sliding rail configured to selectively move the
ramp. The controller is further configured to send a second signal to the
first set of actuators to selectively incline the ramp.
[007] In another embodiment, a ramp assembly for a smart wall
tennis system is disclosed. The ramp assembly includes a ramp extending
on a second surface up to a predefined distance from a wall. It should be
noted that, the predefined distance is greater than a baseline distance of a
tennis court and the ramp is selectively movable relative to a first surface
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and selectively inclinable relative to the second surface. The ramp
assembly further includes at least one sliding rail configured to selectively
move the ramp in at least one predefined direction relative to the first
surface along an axis parallel to the second surface. It should be noted
that, each of the at least one sliding rail selectively move the ramp upon
receiving a first signal from a controller. The ramp assembly further
includes a first set of actuators configured to selectively incline the ramp at
one of predefined angles relative to the second surface. It should be noted
that, each of the first set of actuators selectively incline the ramp upon
receiving a second signal from the controller.
[008] In yet another embodiment, a method of configuring a smart
wall tennis system is disclosed. The method may include adjusting, by a
controller, a first set of actuators and at least one sliding rail associated
with a ramp assembly based on preference of a user. The at least one
sliding rail is configured to selectively move a ramp in at least one
predefined direction relative to a first surface along an axis parallel to a
second surface. Each of the first set of actuators is configured to
selectively incline the ramp at one of predefined angles relative to the
second surface. The method may further include adjusting, by a controller,
a second set of actuators associated a wall assembly. Each of the second
set of actuators are configured to selectively incline a wall at one of the
predefined angles relative to the first surface. Each of the second set of
actuators are adjusted based on inclination of the ramp and position of the
user on the ramp. The method may further include determining, by the
controller, a height for the net line on the wall with respect to the second
surface, based on the position and inclination of the ramp and the position
of the user on the ramp.
[009] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary and
explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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[010] The present application can be best understood by reference
to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawing figures, in which like parts may be referred to by like numerals
[011] FIG. 1 depicts an existing wall tennis setup.
[012] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a smart wall tennis
system, in accordance with an embodiment.
[013] FIG. 3 depicts a smart wall tennis setup comprising a ramp
assembly, in accordance with an embodiment.
[014] FIG. 4 depicts a smart wall tennis setup comprising a ramp
assembly and a wall assembly, in accordance with an embodiment.
[015] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for configuring a smart wall
tennis setup, in accordance with an embodiment.
[016] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for adjusting height of a net
line on a wall within a smart wall tennis setup, in accordance with an
embodiment.
[017] FIG. 7 is a graphical representation of a method for
determining height of a net line on a wall within a smart wall tennis setup,
in accordance with an embodiment.
[018] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for determining and
rendering a projected trajectory of a ball hit by the user within a smart wall
tennis setup, in accordance with an embodiment.
[019] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for determining an ideal
stroke to be played by a user, in accordance with an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[020] The following description is presented to enable a person of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in
the context of particular applications and their requirements. Various
modifications to the embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled
in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to
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other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. Moreover, in the following description, numerous
details are set forth for the purpose of explanation. However, one of
ordinary skill in the art will realize that the invention might be practiced
without the use of these specific details. In other instances, well-known
structures shown in block diagram form in order not to obscure the
description of the invention with unnecessary detail. Thus, the invention is
not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded
the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed
herein.
[021] An existing wall tennis setup 100 is illustrated in FIG. 1. The
wall tennis setup 100 may be used by a tennis player (which may include
tennis beginners and tennis professionals) for enhancing their skills for
playing tennis. The wall tennis setup 100 may help players enhance their
game by improving their control, form, footwork, reflexes, stamina,
consistency, and concentration. By way of an example, tennis beginners
may use the wall tennis setup 100 to learn tennis. While tennis
professionals may use the wall tennis setup 100 for improving their game
and grooming their strokes.
[022] The wall tennis setup 100 may include a floor surface 102
extending up to a predefined distance from a wall 104. The predefined
distance up to which the floor surface 102 extends may be greater than a
baseline distance. The wall 104 may be fixed on a surface that is
perpendicular to the floor surface 102. The wall 104, for example, may be
made up of fiberboard. A net line 106 may be drawn or painted at a
particular height on the wall 104, such that, the net line 106 represents an
actual net. This is done so that the tennis player always hits the ball above
the net line 106 and the wall 104 returns the ball as an opponent player
would return. The net line 106 is depicted as a dotted line in FIG. 1 and is
at a height of 3 feet from the floor surface 102. Additionally, a baseline 108
is drawn on the floor surface 102 at a baseline distance from the wall 104.
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The baseline distance is at a distance of 39 feet from the wall 104. As will
be appreciated, the baseline 108 is a back line from where a player hits
groundstrokes and serves. The baseline 108 is farthest from the net line
106 and runs parallel to the net line 106.
[023] Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram of a
smart wall tennis system 200 is illustrated, in accordance with an
embodiment. The smart wall tennis system 200 may be based on Internet
of Things (IoT), such that, one or more devices within the smart wall tennis
system 200 may be IoT enabled. The smart wall tennis system 200 may
include a ramp assembly and a wall assembly (not shown in FIG. 2). The
ramp assembly may include a ramp 202, a set of sliding rails 206, and a
set of hydraulic actuators 208. Additionally, the wall assembly may include
a wall 204, a set of hydraulic actuators 214, a laser sensor 216, and a
camera 218. Further, the ramp 202 may be extending on a second surface
(i.e., the floor surface, for example, the floor surface 102) up to a
predefined distance from the wall 204. The predefined distance may be
greater than the baseline distance of a tennis court. The wall 204 may be
cooperatively coupled to a first surface, which may be perpendicular to the
second surface. In an embodiment, each of the first surface and the
second surface may be stationary.
[024] Each of the set of sliding rails 206 and the set of hydraulic
actuators 208 may be connected to the ramp 202. Each of the set of
sliding rails 206 may be configured to selectively move the ramp 202
based on requirement of a user (also referred to as a player). The ramp
202 may be moved in one or more predefined directions relative to the first
surface along an axis that is parallel to the second surface. In other words,
the set of sliding rails 206 may move the ramp 202 from left to right and
vice versa with respect to the wall 204. Additionally, the set of sliding rails
206 may move the ramp 202 forward and backward and vice versa with
respect to the wall 204. The set of sliding rails 206 may move the ramp
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202 in order to enable the user to selectively adjust length of the ramp 202
relative to the wall 204.
[025] Further, each of the set of hydraulic actuators 208 may be
configured to selectively incline the ramp 202 at one of predefined angles
relative to the second surface. In other words, each of the set of hydraulic
actuators 208 may be configured to push the ramp 202 in upward direction
or downward direction relative to the second surface based on
requirements of the user. The ramp 202 may be pushed (upwards or
downwards) from one of the edges of the ramp 202, in order to create the
inclination. By way of an example, the angle of inclination of the ramp 202,
which may be created by the set of hydraulic actuators 208, may vary from
a minimum of 1 degree to a maximum of 10 degrees.
[026] The set of sliding rails 206 and the set of hydraulic actuators
208 may further be connected to a controller 210. The controller 210 may
be configured to send a first signal to each of the set of sliding rails 206 in
order to selectively move the ramp 202. In addition, the controller 210 may
be configured to send a second signal to each of the set of hydraulic
actuators 208 to selectively incline the ramp 202. The controller 210 may
also be configured to receive instructions from the user to remotely control
the ramp assembly via a plurality of external devices 212 communicatively
coupled to the controller 210. Examples of the plurality of external devices
212 may include, but are not limited to, a laptop, a desktop, a smartphone,
a smartwatch, and a tablet. In other words, the controller 210 may be
configured to remotely adjust each of the set of sliding rails 206 and each
of the set of hydraulic actuators 208 based on instructions received from
the user via any one of the plurality of external devices 212
communicatively coupled to the controller 210.
[027] Further, the wall assembly may include the wall 204 that may
be cooperatively coupled to the first surface. As described before, the first
surface may be perpendicular to the second surface. The wall assembly
may include the set of hydraulic actuators 214, the laser sensor 216, and
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the camera 218. In an embodiment, the laser sensor 216 and the camera
218 may be outside the wall assembly. Each of the set of hydraulic
actuators 214 may be configured to selectively incline the wall 204 at one
of the predefined angles relative to the first surface. By way of an
example, each of the set of hydraulic actuators 214 may selectively incline
the wall 204 at a minimum angle of zero degree and at a maximum angle
of 15 degrees. The laser sensor 216 may be coupled to the wall 204 and
may be configured to render a net line (for example, the net line 106) on
the wall 204. Additionally, the camera 218 may also be coupled to the wall
204. The camera 218 may be configured to track position and inclination
of the ramp 202 and position of the user on the ramp 202. In addition, the
camera 218 may be configured to record trajectory of a ball hit by the user
(tennis player). The camera 218 may also determine speed of the ball
after being hit by the user. The camera 218 may also be configured to
record a video of the user while playing with the ball within the smart wall
tennis system 200. It may be apparent to a person skilled in the art that
the laser sensor 216 and the camera 218 may not be coupled to the wall
204 and may be located or placed independently of the wall 204.
[028] Further, each of the set of hydraulic actuators 214, the laser
sensor 216, and the camera 218 may be communicatively coupled to the
controller 210. The controller 210 may be configured to selectively incline
the wall 204 relative to the first surface. In order to selectively incline the
wall 204, the controller may send a fifth signal to each of the set of
hydraulic actuators 214. Upon receiving the fifth signal, each of the set of
hydraulic actuators 214 may incline the wall 204, based on requirements
of the user. In addition, the controller 210 may be configured to receive
information associated with the position and inclination of the ramp 202
and the position of the user on the ramp 202 from the camera 218. In an
embodiment, the controller 210 may receive the information as a third
signal from the camera 218. Thereafter, the controller 210 may send a
fourth signal to the laser sensor 216 in order to dynamically adjust height
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of the net line on the wall 204 with respect to the second surface. The
controller 210 may send the fourth signal to the laser sensor 216 in
response to receiving the information from the camera 218.
[029] The controller 210 may be configured to receive instructions
from the user to remotely control the wall assembly via the plurality of
external devices 212 communicatively coupled to the controller 210. In
order to control the wall assembly, the controller 210 may remotely adjust
each of the set of hydraulic actuators 214, the laser sensor 216, and the
camera 218 based on instructions received from the user via the plurality
of external devices 212 communicatively coupled to the controller 210.
[030] Further, the controller 210 may be configured to project a
trajectory of the ball that has been hit by the user beyond the wall 204. In
an embodiment, the projected trajectory may be similar to trajectory of a
ball that may have been hit in an actual tennis court. In addition, the
controller 210 may determine whether the projected trajectory of the ball
may lead to a foul or not. Thereafter, the controller 210 may be configured
to render to the user whether the projected trajectory of the ball leads to a
foul or not. In one embodiment, the controller 210 may render the
determined projected trajectory via one of the plurality of external devices
212 communicatively coupled to the controller 210. In another
embodiment, the controller 210 may render the determined projected
trajectory via a rendering device mounted on the top of the wall 204 or
placed in close proximity to the wall 204. Examples of the rendering device
may include, but are not limited to, Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, an
Organic LED (OLED), Active Matrix LED (AMOLED), and Liquid Crystal
Display (LCD).
[031] Referring now to FIG. 3, a smart wall tennis setup 300 that
includes a ramp assembly 302 is depicted, in accordance with an
embodiment. The ramp assembly 302 may include a ramp 304, at least
one sliding rail 306, and a first set of hydraulic actuators 308. The ramp
304 may be extending on a second surface 310 (for example, the ground)
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up to a predefined distance from a wall 312. It should be noted that, the
predefined distance may be greater than a baseline distance of a tennis
court. Additionally, the ramp 304 may be selectively movable relative to a
first surface (not shown in FIG. 3) to which the wall 312 is operatively
coupled. Further, the ramp 304 may be selectively inclinable relative to the
second surface 310. In an embodiment, the first surface may be
perpendicular to the second surface 310. In addition, each of the first
surface and the second surface 310 may be stationary.
[032] Further, the ramp 304 may be made in way such that the
ramp 304 may reduce speed of rebound ball. More importantly, the ramp
304 may provide extra bounce required for a user 314 (also referred as a
player) to hit a ball after it bounces back. As will be appreciated, the ramp
304 may be made of same surface as synthetic court so as to provide
enough friction for the user to run sideways and back and forth. Further,
each of at least one sliding rail 306 may be configured to selectively move
the ramp 304 in at least one predefined direction relative to the first
surface along an axis parallel to the second surface 310. In other words,
the ramp 304 may be coupled to each of at least one sliding rail 306 in
order to adjust length of the ramp 304. The length of the ramp 304 may be
adjusted by moving each of the at least one sliding rail 306 sideways.
[033] Further, each of the first set of hydraulic actuators 308 may
be configured to selectively incline the ramp 304 at one of predefined
angles (an angle of inclination) relative to the second surface 310. By way
of an example, a minimum angle to which the ramp 304 may be inclined
may be set at 1 degree and a maximum angle to which the ramp 304 may
be inclined may be set at 10 degrees. As may be appreciated, the user
314 may adjust the angle of inclination of the ramp 304 based on his
comfort level. In addition, the entire ramp assembly 302 may be remotely
controlled by the user 314 via a user communication device
communicatively coupled to a controller. With reference to FIG. 2, the user
communication device may correspond to any one of the plurality of
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external devices 212. Also, the controller may correspond to the controller
210. In order to remotely control the ramp assembly 302, the user 314
may need to install an application on the user communication device.
Once the application is installed on the user communication device, the
user 314 may adjust each of the at least one sliding rail 306 and each of
the first set of hydraulic actuators 308 as per requirements of the user 314
via the application installed.
[034] The smart wall tennis setup 300 may also include at least
one laser sensor 316 and at least one camera 318. While the at least one
laser sensor 316 may be configured to render a net line 320 on the wall
312. Additionally, the at least one camera 318 may be configured to track
position and inclination of the ramp 304 and position of the user 314 on
the ramp 302. In addition, the at least one camera 318 may be configured
to record trajectory of a ball hit by the user 314. The at least one camera
318 may also determine speed of the ball after being hit by the user 314.
The at least one camera 318 may also be configured to record a video of
the user 314 while playing with the ball within the smart wall tennis setup
300.
[035] Referring now to FIG. 4, a smart wall tennis setup 400 that
includes a ramp assembly 402 and a wall assembly 404 is depicted, in
accordance with an embodiment. The ramp assembly 402 and various
parts therein are analogous to the ramp assembly 302. Therefore, the
ramp assembly 402 is not explained in the FIG. 4.
[036] The wall assembly 404 may include a wall 406, a second set
of hydraulic actuators 408, at least one laser sensor 410, and at least one
camera 412. The wall 406 may be cooperatively coupled to a first surface
414 as represented in FIG. 4. Moreover, the first surface 414 may be
perpendicular to a second surface (for example, the second surface 310).
Each of the second set of hydraulic actuators 406 may be configured to
selectively incline the wall 406 at one of predefined angles relative to the
first surface 414. In an embodiment, an angle to which the wall 406 is
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selectively inclined may be referred to as an angle of inclination of the wall
406. By way of an example, a minimum angle to which the wall 406 may
be inclined may be set at 0 degree. Moreover, a maximum angle at which
the wall 406 may be inclined may be set at 15 degrees. As will be
appreciated, a user 416 (also referred as a player) may adjust the angle of
inclination of the wall 406 based on his comfort level.
[037] In an embodiment, the at least one laser sensor 410 may be
coupled to the wall 406. Each of the at least one laser sensor 410 coupled
to the wall 406 may render a net line (for example, the net line 320) on the
wall 406. In order to render the net line on the wall 406, each of the at
least one laser sensor 410 may point a laser light on the wall 406.
Moreover, a height of the net line on the wall 406 may be dynamically
adjusted. Referring to FIG. 3, the height of the net line may be dynamically
adjusted based on the position and inclination of a ramp (for example, the
ramp 304) and the position of the user 416 on the ramp. In other words,
since the user 416 may be dynamically moving along the ramp back and
forth or sideways, therefore, the height of the net line cannot be set fixed.
Thus, the height of the net line may be dynamically adjusted based on the
position and inclination of the ramp and the position of the user 416 on the
ramp. The technique of determining the height of the net line has been
further explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 7.
[038] Further, the at least one camera 412 may be coupled to the
wall 406. By way of an example, two cameras may be placed on either
side of the wall 406. In conjunction with FIG. 3, each of the at least one
camera 412 coupled to the wall 406 may be configured to track position
and inclination of the ramp and position of the user 416 on the ramp. In
order to track position and inclination of the ramp and position of the user
416 on the ramp, each of the at least one digital camera 412 may capture
images of the playing area (i.e., the ramp). Further, each of the at least
one digital camera 412 may be configured to record trajectory of the ball
after being hit by the user 416 . Moreover, each of the at least one camera
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412 may be configured to determine speed of the ball after being hit by the
user 416. In addition, each of the at least one camera 412 may record a
video of the user 416 while playing with the ball within the smart wall
tennis setup 400. Further, a rendering device (for example, a LCD
indicator) may be mounted on top of the wall 406. The rendering device
mounted on top of the wall 406 may be configured to render to the user
416 whether a projected trajectory of the ball hit by the user 416 may lead
to a foul or not. In other words, the rendering device may display “IN” and
“OUT” for every stroke hit by the user 416. As a result, over time, the user
416 may be able to hit every stroke with right amount of force, based on
the determined projected trajectory of the ball.
[039] As with the ramp assembly 302, the entire wall assembly 402
may be remotely controlled by the user 416 via a user communication
device communicatively coupled to a controller. With reference to FIG. 2,
the user communication device may correspond to any one of the plurality
of external devices 212. Also, the controller may correspond to the
controller 210. In order to remotely control the wall assembly 402, the user
416 may need to install an application on the user communication device.
Once the application is installed on the user communication device, the
user 416 may access and adjust each of the second set of actuators 408,
the at least one laser sensor 410, and the at least one camera 412 as per
his requirement via the application installed. In addition, the user 416 may
access video recorded by each of the at least one camera 412 via the
application installed on the user communication device. This may enable
the user 416 to determine whether playing technique of the user 416 can
be improved or not.
[040] Referring now to FIG. 5, a flowchart of a method for
configuring a smart wall tennis setup is illustrated, in accordance with an
embodiment. At step 502, a set of instructions may be received from a
user (also referred to as a player) to remotely control one of a ramp
assembly and a wall assembly. With reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the
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ramp assembly may correspond to the ramp assembly 302 and the wall
assembly may correspond to the wall assembly 402. In an embodiment,
the user may send the set of instructions via an application installed on a
user communication device. The user communication device may be
communicatively coupled to a controller. With reference to FIG. 2, the user
communication device may correspond to any one of the plurality of
external devices 212. Also, the controller may correspond to the controller
210.
[041] Upon receiving at least one of the set of instructions, at step
504, a first set of actuators and at least one sliding rail associated with the
ramp assembly may be adjusted based on preference of the user. The
user may correspond to the user 312 or the user 416. Each of the at least
one sliding rail may be configured to selectively move a ramp in at least
one predefined direction relative to a first surface along an axis parallel to
a second surface. In addition, each of the first set of actuators may be
configured to selectively incline the ramp at one of predefined angles
relative to the second surface. The first surface may be perpendicular to
the second surface. Also, each of the first surface and the second surface
may be stationary. This has already been explained in detail in conjunction
with FIG. 3 and FIG. 4
[042] Further, at step 506, each of the second set of actuators
associated with the wall assembly may be adjusted. In an embodiment,
each of the second set of actuators may be configured to selectively
incline a wall at one of the predefined angles relative to the first surface. In
addition, each of the second set of actuators may be adjusted based on
inclination of the ramp and position of the user on the ramp. Once the
ramp and the wall are inclined, at step 508, a height of a net line may be
determined on the wall with respect to the second surface. The height may
be determined based on the position and inclination of the ramp and the
position of the user on the ramp. This is further explained in detail in
conjunction with FIG. 6.
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[043] Referring now to FIG. 6, a flowchart of a method for adjusting
height of a net line on a wall within a smart wall tennis setup is illustrated,
in accordance with an embodiment. At step 602, a net line may be
rendered on a wall. With reference to FIG. 3, the wall may correspond to
the wall 312 and the net line 320 may be rendered by the at least one
laser sensor 316 coupled to the wall 314. Thereafter, at step 604, position
and inclination of the ramp and position of the user on the ramp may be
tracked. With reference to FIG. 3, position and inclination of the ramp and
position of the user on the ramp may be tracked via the at least one
camera 318 coupled to the wall 312. Based on position and inclination of
the ramp and position of the user on the ramp, at step 606, a height of the
net line may be dynamically adjusted. The height of the net line may be
dynamically adjusted with respect to the second surface by the at least
one laser sensor (for example, the at least one laser sensor 316). An
exemplary method for determining height of a net line is explained in detail
in conjunction with FIG. 7.
[044] Referring now to FIG. 7, a graphical representation 700 of a
method of determining height of a net line on a wall 702 within a smart wall
tennis setup is depicted, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
The graphical representation 700 depicts a ramp 704 extending on a
second surface 706 up to a predefined distance from the wall 702. A
player position 706 is represented by way of a dot on the ramp 704.
Further, ‘β’ represents an angle of inclination of the ramp 704 with respect
to the second surface 706. The angle of inclination may be adjusted by a
player based on his requirements and comfort, as explained in the FIG. 2
to FIG. 6. The player may adjust the angle of inclination of the ramp 704
by remotely adjusting each of a first set of hydraulic actuators (not shown
in FIG. 7). Each of the first set of hydraulic actuators may be remotely
adjusted by the player via the application installed in his user
communication device. The user communication device may correspond
to any one of the plurality of external devices 212. Examples of external
-17-
devices may include, but is not limited to, a laptop, a desktop, a
smartphone, and a tablet. Moreover, the player may adjust position of the
ramp 704 by moving the ramp 704 via at least one sliding rail (not shown
in FIG. 7) connected with the ramp 704. With reference to FIG. 3, the at
least one sliding rail may correspond to the at least one sliding rails 306.
Once position and inclination of the ramp 704 and the player position 708
is determined, a distance between the player position 708 and the wall
702 may be calculated. As depicted in the present FIG. 7, the distance
may be calculated based on the equation (1) given below:
D = X + Y … (1)
[045] In the equation (1), ‘D’ may represent the distance
(horizontal distance) between the player position 708 and the wall 702. ‘X’
may represent a distance between starting point of the ramp 704 (with
respect to the wall 702) and the player position 708. ‘Y’ may represent a
distance between starting point of the ramp 704 and the wall 702. In an
embodiment, the distance between the player position 708 and the wall
702 may be calculated via at least one camera coupled to the wall 702.
With reference to FIG. 4, the at least one camera may correspond to the at
least one camera 412. In addition, the at least one camera may be
configured to determine the starting point of the ramp 704. It should be
noted that, the at least one camera may determine the distance based on
an existing triangulation technique.
[046] Once the distance between the player position 708 and the
wall 702 is calculated, based on a change in position of the ramp 704 and
the player position 708, a height of a net line may be dynamically adjusted
via at least one laser sensor coupled to the wall 702. With reference to
FIG. 4, the at least one laser sensor may correspond to the at least one
laser sensor 316. Moreover, the at least one laser sensor may dynamically
adjust the height of the net line based on the equation (2) represented
below:
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h = X* tan(β) + 3’ + α … (2)
[047] In equation (2), ‘h’ may represent the dynamic height of the
net line determined for the wall 702. ‘X’ may represent the distance
between starting point of the ramp 704 and the player position 708. ‘β’
may represent the angle of inclination of the ramp 704 and ‘α’ may
represent correction to the height of the net line based on inclination of the
wall 702. It should be noted that, when the wall 702 is upright with no
inclination with respect to the first surface then the ‘α’ maybe ‘0’.
[048] Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart of a method of
determining and rendering a trajectory of a ball to a user within a smart
wall tennis setup is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment. At step
802, a trajectory of the ball may be recorded by at least one camera. With
reference to FIG. 4, the trajectory of the ball may be recorded via the at
least one camera 412, which may be coupled to the wall 404. By way of
an example, when the user hits a stroke a trajectory may be created
based on movement of the ball. This trajectory created based on
movement of the ball may be recorded by the at least one camera. Once
the trajectory is recorded, at step 804, a speed of the ball may be
determined after being hit by the user. Based on the trajectory and speed
of the ball determined by the at least one camera, at step 806, a trajectory
beyond the wall may be projected. In an embodiment, the projected
trajectory may correspond to similar trajectory of the ball in an actual
tennis court.
[049] Further, at step 808, a prediction may be done to determine
whether the projected trajectory may lead to foul or not. With reference to
FIG. 2, the prediction for the projected trajectory may be done by the
controller 210. By way of an example, the prediction of the projected
trajectory may enable the user to play right strokes with right amount of
force. Once the prediction for the projected trajectory is done, at step 810,
the determined projected trajectory may be rendered to the user. With
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reference to FIG. 2, the determined projected trajectory may be rendered
to the user via one of the plurality of external devices 212 communicatively
coupled to the controller 210. In another embodiment, the determined
projected trajectory may be rendered via a rendering device mounted on
top of the wall. Example of the rendering device may include, but is not
limited to an LED display, OLED, AMOLED, and an LCD.
[050] Referring now to FIG. 9, a flowchart of a method for
determining an ideal stroke to be played by a user is illustrated, in
accordance with an embodiment. At step 902, a video of the user may be
recorded while playing with the ball within a smart wall tennis setup (for
example, the smart wall tennis setup 300 and smart wall tennis setup
400). In an embodiment, the recorded video may be accessed by the user
via an application installed on a user communication device. The user
communication device may correspond to any one of the plurality of
external devices 212. Examples of the external devices may include, but is
not limited to, a laptop, a desktop, a smartphone, and a tablet.
[051] Further, at step 904, a virtual player may be superimposed
on the recorded video of the user. The virtual player may be superimposed
in order to indicate an ideal stroke to be played by the user, for a given
shot. By way of an example, the virtual player superimposed over the
recorded video may enable the user to ascertain an ideal stroke to be
played for a ball of a certain trajectory and speed that rebounds from the
wall and the ramp. Thereafter, at step 906, at least one mistake committed
by the user may be indicated to the user. The at least one mistake
committed may be indicated based on comparison of the previous stroke
played by the user with respect to the virtual player. By way of an
example, the at least one mistake committed may enable the user to
improve his stroke play thereby improving his tennis game.
[052] Various embodiments provide method and system for
configuring a smart wall tennis system. The disclosed method and system
may help to adjust a first set of actuators and at least one sliding rail
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associated with a ramp assembly based on preference of a user. In an
embodiment, the at least one sliding rail is configured to selectively move
a ramp in at least one predefined direction relative to a first surface along
an axis parallel to a second surface. Moreover, each of the first set of
actuators is configured to selectively incline the ramp at one of predefined
angles relative to the second surface. The disclosed method and system
may adjust a second set of actuators associated with a wall assembly. In
an embodiment, each of the second set of actuators are configured to
selectively incline a wall at one of the predefined angles relative to the first
surface. Moreover, each of the second set of actuators are adjusted based
on inclination of the ramp and position of the user on the ramp. The
disclosed method and system may determine a height for a net line on the
wall with respect to the second surface, based on the position and
inclination of the ramp and the position of the user on the ramp.
[053] The system and method provide some advantages like selftraining for players becomes easy as players would be able to play games
similar to the way they would play with an actual player on other end.
Moreover, bounce and speed of the ball can be controlled by adjusting the
angle of inclination and distance of the ramp from the wall. In addition, the
players may get to know whether the ball they hit would have crossed
baseline of a tennis court on the other side if there was no wall, this in turn
may help the players to control and manage their strokes. Further, with
feature of superimposing the virtual player, the players may analyze and
correct their mistakes using an application installed in their user
communication devices (for example, a smart phone).
[054] It will be appreciated that, for clarity purposes, the above
description has described embodiments of the invention with reference to
different functional units and processors. However, it will be apparent that
any suitable distribution of functionality between different functional units,
processors or domains may be used without detracting from the invention.
For example, functionality illustrated to be performed by separate
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processors or controllers may be performed by the same processor or
controller. Hence, references to specific functional units are only to be
seen as references to suitable means for providing the described
functionality, rather than indicative of a strict logical or physical structure or
organization.
[055] Although the present invention has been described in
connection with some embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the
specific form set forth herein. Rather, the scope of the present invention is
limited only by the claims. Additionally, although a feature may appear to
be described in connection with particular embodiments, one skilled in the
art would recognize that various features of the described embodiments
may be combined in accordance with the invention.
[056] Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of
means, elements or process steps may be implemented by, for example, a
single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be
included in different claims, these may possibly be advantageously
combined, and the inclusion in different claims does not imply that a
combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. Also, the
inclusion of a feature in one category of claims does not imply a limitation
to this category, but rather the feature may be equally applicable to other
claim categories, as appropriate.

CLAIMS
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A smart wall tennis system (200) comprising:
a wall assembly (404) comprising a wall (406) and a first surface (414),
wherein the wall is cooperatively coupled to the first surface, and wherein
the first surface (414) is perpendicular to a second surface (310), wherein
each of the first surface (414) and the second surface (310) are stationary;
a ramp assembly (302) comprising:
a ramp (304) extending on the second surface (310) up to a
predefined distance from the wall (406), wherein the predefined
distance is greater than a baseline distance of a tennis court, and
wherein the ramp (304) is selectively movable relative to the first
surface (414) and selectively inclinable relative to the second
surface (310);
at least one sliding rail (306) configured to selectively move
the ramp (304) in at least one predefined direction relative to the
first surface (414) along an axis parallel to the second surface
(310); and
a first set of actuators (308) configured to selectively incline
the ramp (304) at one of predefined angles relative to the second
surface (310); and
a controller (210) communicatively coupled to the at least one
sliding rail (306) and the first set of actuators (308), wherein the controller
(210) is configured to:
send a first signal to the at least one sliding rail (306)
configured to selectively move the ramp (304); and
send a second signal to the first set of actuators (308) to
selectively incline the ramp (304).
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2. The smart wall tennis system (200) of claim 1, wherein the wall
assembly (404) further comprises:
a second set of actuators (408) configured to selectively incline the
wall (406) at one of the predefined angles relative to the first surface (414),
and wherein the second set of actuators (408) are communicatively
coupled to the controller (210);
the controller (210) is configured to send a fifth signal to the second
set of actuators (408) to selectively incline the wall (406) relative to the first
surface (414);
at least one laser sensor (410) coupled to the wall (406), wherein
each of the at least one sensor (410) is configured to render a net line
(320) on the wall (406); and
at least one camera (412) coupled to the wall (406), wherein each
of the at least one camera (412) is configured to track position and
inclination of the ramp (304) and position of a user (416) on the ramp
(304).
3. The smart wall tennis system (200) of claim 2, wherein the controller
(210) is communicatively coupled to each of the at least one sensor (410)
and the at least one camera (412), and wherein the controller (210) is
further configured to:
receive a third signal from the at least one camera (412),
wherein the third signal comprises information associated with the
position and inclination of the ramp (304) and the position of the
user (416) on the ramp (304); and
send a fourth signal to the at least one laser sensor (410) to
dynamically adjust height of the net line (320) on the wall (406) with
respect to the second surface (310), in response to receiving the
third signal; and
determine a height for the net line (320) on the wall (406)
with respect to the second surface (310), based on the position and
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inclination of the ramp (304) and the position of the user (416) on
the ramp (304) received in the third signal.
4. The smart wall tennis system (200) of claim 2, wherein the at least one
camera (412) is further configured to perform at least one of:
record trajectory of a ball;
determine speed of the ball after being hit by the user (416);
record a video of the user (416) while playing with the ball within the
smart wall tennis system (200);
superimpose a virtual player on the recorded video of the user
(416) to indicate an ideal stroke to be played by the user (416); and
indicate at least one mistake committed by the user (416) when
compared to the virtual player.
5. The smart wall tennis system (200) of claim 4, wherein the controller
(210) is further configured to:
project a trajectory of the ball beyond the wall (406) based on the
trajectory and speed of the ball determined by the at least one camera
(412), wherein the projected trajectory corresponds to similar trajectory of
the ball in an actual tennis court;
determine whether the projected trajectory of the ball leads to a foul or
not; and
a rendering device communicatively coupled to the controller (210),
wherein the controller (210) is configured to render to the user (416)
whether the projected trajectory of the ball leads to a foul or not.
6. The smart wall tennis system (200) of claim 1, further comprising a user
communication device communicatively coupled to the controller (210),
wherein a user (416) provides instructions to the controller (210) via the
user communication device to remotely control each of the ramp assembly
(302) and the wall assembly (404), and wherein the controller (210) is
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configured to transmit information captured by the controller to the user
communication device.
7. A ramp assembly (302) for a smart wall tennis system (200), wherein
the ramp assembly (302) comprises:
a ramp (304) extending on a second surface (310) up to a
predefined distance from a wall (406), wherein the predefined distance is
greater than a baseline distance of a tennis court, and wherein the ramp
(304) is selectively movable relative to a first surface (414) and selectively
inclinable relative to the second surface (310);
at least one sliding rail (306) configured to selectively move the
ramp (304) in at least one predefined direction relative to the first surface
(414) along an axis parallel to the second surface (310), wherein each of
the at least one sliding rail (306) selectively move the ramp (304) upon
receiving a first signal from a controller (210); and
a first set of actuators (308) configured to selectively incline the
ramp (304) at one of predefined angles relative to the second surface
(310), wherein each of the first set of actuators (308) selectively incline the
ramp (304) upon receiving a second signal from the controller (210).
8. A method for configuring a smart wall tennis system (200), the method
comprising:
adjusting (504), by a controller (210), a first set of actuators (308)
and at least one sliding rail (306) associated with a ramp assembly (302)
based on preference of a user (416), wherein the at least one sliding rail
(306) is configured to selectively move a ramp (304) in at least one
predefined direction relative to a first surface (414) along an axis parallel
to a second surface (310), and wherein each of the first set of actuators
(308) is configured to selectively incline the ramp (304) at one of
predefined angles relative to the second surface (310);
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adjusting (506), by the controller (210), a second set of actuators (408)
associated with a wall assembly (404), wherein each of the second set of
actuators (408) are configured to selectively incline a wall (406) at one of
the predefined angles relative to the first surface (414); and wherein each
of the second set of actuators (408) are adjusted based on inclination of
the ramp (304) and position of the user (414) on the ramp (304); and
determining (508), by the controller (210), a height for the net line (320)
on the wall (406) with respect to the second surface (310), based on the
position and inclination of the ramp (304) and the position of the user (416)
on the ramp (304).
9. The method of claim 8, wherein adjusting the wall assembly further
comprising:
rendering (602), by at least one laser sensor (410) communicatively
coupled to the controller (210), a net line (320) on the wall (406), wherein
the at least one laser sensor (410) is coupled to the wall (406);
tracking (604), by at least one camera (412) communicatively coupled
to the controller (210), position and inclination of the ramp (304) and
position of the user (416) on the ramp (304), wherein the at least one
camera (412) is coupled to the wall (406); and
dynamically adjusting (606), by the controller (210), height of the net
line (320) on the wall (406) with respect to the second surface (310) based
on position and inclination of the ramp (304) and position of the user (416)
on the ramp (304).
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
recording (802), by at least one camera (412) communicatively coupled
to the controller (406), trajectory of a ball;
determining (804), by at least one camera (412) communicatively
coupled to the controller (210), speed of the ball after being hit by the user
(416);
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recording (902), by at least one camera (412) communicatively coupled
to the controller (210), a video of the user (416) while playing with the ball
within the smart wall tennis system (200);
superimposing (904), by the controller (210), a virtual player on the
recorded video of the user (416) to indicate an ideal stroke to be played by
the user (416);
indicating (906), by the controller (210), at least one mistake
committed by the user (416) when compared to the virtual player;
projecting (806), by the controller (210), a trajectory of the ball
beyond the wall (406) based on the trajectory and speed of the ball
determined by the at least one camera (412), wherein the projected
trajectory corresponds to similar trajectory of the ball in an actual tennis
court;
determine (808), by the controller (210), whether the projected
trajectory of the ball leads to a foul or not; and
rendering (810), by the controller (210) via a rendering device
communicatively coupled to the controller, the determined projected
trajectory to the user (416).