MarkyMark1

Michel, Thanks for your time and wisdom. Your answer is one of the first, in addition the the response below yours, that appears to be a very creative and plausible solution. I am not an engineer or scientist nor smart guy. I'm just trying to support my family. So, most of this is way over my head. In fact, even if the answer right in front of me; like your answer; I wouldn't know it. Im hoping to present this game to a company in a few months. My intention was to play the game with them without the electronics and explain the how the technology might work. However, because of your potential solution, the one below, or a combination, for the first time I'm considering trying to produce a working prototype. Do you think hiring someone to incorporate your solution, the one below yours, or a combination of the two run into the thousands of dollars? If you have time, and its convenient, free to call me at 808.321.9877. Thanks again! Mark 808.321.9877

I have researched RFID, accelerometers, near field communication, magnetic paint, Bluetooth and arduino in an attempt to find a solution for this application. The application incorporates three componenets: ball, solid three-dimensional target and electronic scoreboard. These three items makeup a game. The game's object is to score a point. A point is scored when the ball is kicked and contacts the target. The point is then wirelessly communicated to the nearby scoreboard. The problem is designing the components so a point is not logged when the target is contacted by a persons foot and not the ball. It's making me crazy.

Sports Wireless Technology DETAILS A wireless three-dimensional target is on the playing field. A player kicks a ball at the target. OPERATION When the ball contacts the wireless target the target should log a score. The score would then be wirelessly communicated to an electronic scoreboard. QUESTION What wireless technology will log a score when the ball contacts the target but not log a score if a foot or other object, and not the ball, contacts the target. (If a foot, and not the ball, contacts the target it does not score a point). I have explored RFID, Near Field Communications, Arduino, Bluetooth, conductive paint, etc and have not found a solution to my problem. I am not a scientist, nor an engineer, so its possible I simply missed what may be apparent to you. Thanks

Thanks for the numerous and thoughtful replies. Some additional information: The ball could contact the target with either the lightest touch or a violent impact combined with the feet of multiple players. The webcam is interesting however there will be a plethora of targets and lots of bodies running full speed about the targets. The cams may impede play and the players could impede the cams view. Accelerometers, while I don't know much about them, sound promising. I don't need 100 percent accuracy. It's only a game. Currently the targets are three dimensional with numerous appendages (but this can be changed if the solution we are seeking requires it) The targets sit on the ground and they will get stepped on. And I can see you all understand the complexity of identifying the balls contact with the target as opposed to a foot. Thanks again

I'm designing a new game that involves numerous players kicking a ball at a three-dimensional target. An electronic automated scorekeeper is needed. This electronic automated scorekeeper needs the ability to understand when the ball (not a foot or other body part) contacts the target. When the ball contacts the target the scorekeeper should increases the score. The target will be stepped on and abused in the course of the game. The target must be low-profile or soft so that it does not injure a player when they step on it. Currently the target is made out of plastic and foam but other materials are considered. The ball may be leather, rubber, synthetic or comparable material. Thanks!